Disneyland Park, California

Disneyland Park opened in 1955, and is one of the top family vacation destinations in the entire world. This park has served as the model for hundreds of other similar destinations that have since sprung up around the world. It is the flagship of what has become a huge brand. Today, there is the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, which is the most visited theme park in the world; the Tokyo Disney Resort in Japan; Disneyland Paris in France; and the Hong Kong and Shanghai Disneyland Resort in China. There is also the Disney Cruise Line with two ships that sail the Caribbean and a number of other ventures, including the Disney Vacation Club which offers timeshares and vacation rentals at all of its resorts. It was not the first or last amusement park to offer entertainment, recreation, and thrilling rides to the public, but it is Disneyland (with its “happiest place on earth” motto) that began the trend—and it is the only one in the international brand to be designed and built with the direct hands-on control of Walt Disney himself.

The Disneyland theme park is divided into several different “lands,” each of which boasts its own signature attractions and atmosphere. These areas of Disneyland include Main Street USA, Adventureland, New Orleans Square, Frontierland, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Mickey’s Toontown, and Tomorrowland. Additionally, there is the adjacent Downtown Disney District, a shopping, entertainment, and dining area; and another, newer theme park called the California Adventure Park that is also adjacent. While the name of each area pretty much describes the kind of atmosphere to expect, you will find a wide variety of rides, attractions, dining, and shopping to appeal to all ages in each area.

Main Street is designed like a small Midwest Victorian town and boasts the audio-animatronic Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln show. Adventureland evokes exotic far off places and boasts the Indiana Jones Adventure. Head to New Orleans Square to experience the Pirates of the Caribbean. The Space Mountain Roller Coaster in Tomorrowland is for those with a desire for thrills and the iconic Dumbo the Flying Elephant ride is for younger children in Fantasyland. If you’re in the mood for a little water, you will enjoy Splash Mountain, an elaborate waterslide flume complex with several Hidden Mickeys.

You can rest your feet on the Disney railroads and monorails and catch a ride to a number of different areas and attractions. Everywhere throughout the Disneyland Theme Park are the princesses and beloved cartoon characters that made the Disney brand famous. You might be dining in one of the restaurants and find that Donald Duck or Goofy is your waiter. You can have you picture taken with Sleeping Beauty in front of her castle, or any other number of Disney characters throughout the park. In addition to extravagant celebrations during special holidays, you can enjoy parades and fireworks displays just about every day of the year.

Disneyland Park is located in the city of Anaheim, a southern suburb of Los Angeles in California. Its location fits the criteria that Walt Disney originally set—it must be in the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area and must be easily accessible by freeways. This means that after your flights bring you into one of the area airports, car rentals can get you quickly to the park and to all the Anaheim hotels in the vicinity.

California Adventure

California Adventure is located in Anaheim and adjacent to the venerable Disneyland Park. Construction was begun in 1998 at the same time the Disneyland Hotel and other areas of Disneyland were being expanded. The final Disney California Adventure Park was completed in 2001. The concept of the California Adventure was to celebrate the state and recreate many of the unique experiences available in the state—from white water rafting to Napa Valley wine tasting.

The main entrance to the Disney California Adventure Park is through Sunshine Plaza, home to Buena Vista Street, a recreation of what Los Angeles was like in the 1920s when Walt Disney first arrived in the city. Here is a reproduction of the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge, which forms part of the park’s monorail, which in turn serves the same transportation purpose as the Disneyland Railroads. Some of the California Adventure attractions are accessed directly from Sunshine Plaza. The plaza boasts two dining spots and two of the park’s largest shopping venues.

More areas of California Adventure include Paradise Pier, designed to provide the atmosphere of a Victorian Boardwalk, like the one that can still be found at the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles or the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the oldest in California (dating to 1907). The California Adventure attractions at Paradise Pier include traditional boardwalk rides such as a roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and carousel as well as arcade games. The Golden Gate area of the Disney California Adventure Park provides rides and attractions that evoke the incredible natural beauty of the state like Yosemite, the Golden Vine Winery with its Napa Valley theme, the Pacific Wharf patterned after the famed Cannery Row in Monterey, and the Hollywood Pictures Backlot. There are also plenty of entertainment, fireworks displays, and parades held at regular intervals and during special holidays like Christmas, New Years, and the Fourth of July.

There are a number of places to stay in addition to hotels and motels in the surrounding area and the Disneyland resorts. You can try the Grand Californian Hotel for a complete resort experience that includes a full-service spa, a variety of dining spots, swimming pools, and a fitness center. There are about twenty dining spots that include an ice cream parlors, bakery, gourmet hot dog stand, Mexican restaurants, and wine tasting restaurants.

Ironically, the intention to honor the state caused initial criticism, as a number of the actual sites and landmarks that the California Adventure attractions were modeled on could be visited right in Los Angeles by driving for only an hour or less. Another criticism was that there were fewer California Adventure rides and things to do than in Disneyland, but day admission tickets cost the same as entrance to Disneyland. In 2007, the Walt Disney Company announced plans for a multi-year expansion and redesign that will upgrade many rides and attractions as well as add more.

The History of Disneyland, California

Disneyland history began with Walt Disney’s dream of a place where parents could bring their children and have fun together as a family. He had received letters from people wanting to visit Disney Studios in Burbank, and the facts about Disneyland include original plans to locate his fun park next to the studio so employees could bring their children, and visitors from the public could tour the studio. But he realized that the studio might interest adults, and not their children. So he needed another site, eventually settling on the suburb of Anaheim because it was within the Los Angeles metropolitan area and easily accessible by freeway. The official Disneyland history timeline began in 1953 with the purchase of an Anaheim orange grove, and construction began on what would become Disneyland Park in 1954.

One of the facts about Disneyland that may surprise many is the difficulty Walt Disney experienced in trying to fund his dream project. He looked to a novel new form of entertainment—television—and created the show Disneyland, which would eventually become the Wonderful World of Color series that many baby boomers grew up with. The television network (ABC) helped to finance the project. Stores and other shopping venues were located throughout the various areas of Disneyland (especially Main Street USA). These were primarily owned and operated by other companies, and this also helped in the initial funding.

The physical Disneyland history began with groundbreaking and construction in 1954. The park opened in July of 1955, only a year later. At the time, there were only twenty attractions. Today, the Disneyland rides and attractions total nearly 60—and that’s not including the rides and attractions at adjacent the California Adventure Park or the entertainment venues in the Downtown Disney District. Disney’s Hollywood friends in attendance included Ronald Reagan, Art Linkletter, and Bob Cummings. It was the first of many events to mark Disneyland history, and it was broadcast live on television.

Disneyland's history included a healthy dose of Cold War politics in the early years, when Soviet Premier Nikita Khruschev was not granted his wish to visit the park in 1959. In the early 1960s, the Shah of Iran (then a United States ally) and his wife the Empress Farah were invited. Walt Disney and the Shah rode the Matterhorn roller coaster together, and that video is still available. Disney famously said that “Disneyland will never be completed as long as there is imagination left in the world.” He wasn’t too excited about creating Tomorrowland because he thought it would be outdated by the time it was completed, but the goal to keep the park updated and fresh has become a focus here. Disneyland history is filled with what amounts to almost constant remodeling, updating, and expansion. In 1963, the Enchanted Tiki Room was opened, and was the first to feature audio-animatronics.

More facts about Disneyland include the 1982 change from books full of attraction tickets to the Passport, which was valid for unlimited rides during a certain time period—usually a full day. In 1999, the Fastpass was introduced. In 2001, the Downtown Disney District, Disney’s California Adventure, and the Grand Californian Hotel were opened, completing the transition from a one-park property with a single hotel into one of the most popular resorts in the world. In 2004, a visitor from Australia became the 500-millionth guest.

Restaurants in Disneyland, California

Disneyland restaurants offer a wide variety of cuisines and experiences. The food at Disneyland ranges from quick snacks and burgers to gourmet Disneyland dining and themed restaurants. The kids can dine with princesses and characters and the adults can enjoy a glass of fine Napa Valley wine in the Mendocino Terrace at the California Adventure Park. There is Mexican and Asian food, Cajun cuisine, and California fusion. There are also fine dining venues and steakhouses, and just about everything else you can imagine. For adults who want fine dining and a night out without the children, the Disneyland hotels offer in-room child care.

Disneyland restaurants within the Disneyland Park itself do not serve alcoholic beverages, in keeping with its long-standing family-oriented reputation. However, alcohol is available in many different types of bars and lounges at the California Adventure Park and in the Downtown Disney District, as well as the many hotels and resorts within the parks and in the surrounding Anaheim hotels. The drinking age is 21. There is Disneyland dining at the places serving alcoholic beverages, so you can get everything from appetizers and snacks to light California fusion cuisine.

There are venues for healthy food at Disneyland as well as ice cream shops. There are take away places (some of which can provide you with a gourmet picnic), and table service meals. There are more than 70 different places to get food of some sort, so your choices are wide. Vegetarians will have no problems finding delicious food at Disneyland at just about all of the choices. Meat lovers will find steak houses and gourmet wieners and sausages.

If you’re enjoying family vacations and want your Disneyland dining to thrill the children in your group, seek out the venues that offer character dining. Meet Disney princesses at Ariel’s Grotto in the California Adventure Park. At Disney’s PCH (short for Pacific Coast Highway) Grill, the children will be served by Mickey or one of his character friends, including Goofy and Donald Duck. The PCH Grill is conveniently located in the Paradise Pier Hotel, which offers a princesses and characters theme along with many of the facilities of a resort.

Several Disneyland restaurants take you to an entirely different time and place. Inside the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction at California Adventure is the Blue Bayou, serving Creole and Cajun style cuisine amidst the twinkling of fireflies and the sounds of bayou crickets and frogs. Or you can dine amidst a lush rainforest atmosphere at the Rainforest Café, which also boasts an entire shopping village.

You can enjoy your food at Disneyland as part of vacation packages. Although these vacation packages are available only through the Walt Disney Travel Company, that company does sell through a large international network of travel agents and tour operators. The dining plans that can be included offer the choice of one to fifteen meals per person. These are available at different venues throughout the entire Disney Resort at both the California Adventure Park and Disneyland Park, and includes restaurants located in the resort hotels. Reservations for dinner at many of the more popular restaurants are recommended.

Disneyland Shows

Disneyland shows 2011 are apt to happen on any day, in any place, and offer a wide variety to spark the interest of just about anyone. At the top of the list for many are the magical fireworks displays that burst behind the Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland Park virtually every evening during the summer and on special holidays like Halloween and New Year’s Eve. This iconic Disneyland entertainment that was featured on the opening shots of the Wonderful World of Color television series is part of the history of the theme park. It’s been enjoyed by children and adults of all ages since 1956, a year after the park opened.

Another popular pyrotechnic Disneyland light show is Fantasmic!, which is held on and around the Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island in Frontierland. The show is led by Mickey Mouse himself, and is inspired by the classic film Fantasia. If you like, you can enjoy this Disneyland light show while dining on a dessert sampler near the Café Orleans. To get tickets for this prime seating, you need to call ahead to make reservations.

A newer but equally spectacular Disneyland light show is The World of Color that is held in the California Adventure Park. There are several dining packages that include dinner and the show available at 5:00 p.m. and 7:05 p.m. each evening. These are available in several venues, including the Napa Valley Wine Country Trattoria. You can enjoy the show and cocktails at Ariels Grotto, snacks in Paradise Bay, or order a picnic that comes with reserved seating.

Parades comprise more of the traditional Disneyland entertainment that happens with regularity. These have been going on in Disneyland Park just about as long as the fireworks displays. There are floats, bands, street performers, and the beloved princesses and characters that are the trademark of the Disney brand. Another of the Disneyland shows is the daily parade that occurs in the California Adventure Park, featuring Pixar characters from films like The Incredibles, Monsters, Inc., Ratatouille, Finding Nemo, A Bug’s Life, and the perennial favorite Toy Story. Be aware that you might get squirted with water during this extravaganza.

While most of the traditional Disneyland entertainment has been geared towards children, it has also been designed to fulfill Walt Disney’s original dream of a magical place that families can enjoy together. And because many adults grew up loving the Disney television show, the movies, and all the characters, it is sometimes difficult to tell who is enjoying the entertainment more—adults or children. However, there are some 2011 Disneyland shows that are decidedly more adult-oriented than others. These will be found in the venues of the Downtown Disney District that serve alcoholic beverages and provide live entertainment. Look especially for the legendary House of Blues and Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, where you are apt to be entertained by internationally known headliners. You can also watch the best sports games at the ESPN Sports Zone and watch the latest film releases at 12 AMC Theaters.

Disneyland Events and Festivals

Disneyland events occur throughout the year, with the most notable happening during holidays like Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and July Fourth. These times of year all offer festivities that include colorful parades, fireworks, twinkling lights, fabulous costumes, and extravagant seasonal decorations. However, special events take place almost every day at this theme park, whether they are park-wide events such as the nightly fireworks or daily parades, or more personal events that you can schedule for your group any time of year such as a wedding.

Disneyland New Years Eve is a particularly festive time of year, with the most spectacular fireworks of the entire year. All the dining spots get into the act with special menus, and the spirit of the holiday colors everything. Check both the Disneyland special events calendar as well as different hotels, many of which offer vacation packages during holiday periods.

But you do not need to plan your vacations around these limited holidays. Every day is an occasion here at the “happiest place on earth,” with fireworks displays, parades, and other entertainment offered almost daily. Once you have made your arrangements, check the Disneyland special events calendar for what will be going on during your visit. And all the entertainment is not just for children. Disneyland events in the Downtown Disney District (where alcoholic beverages are served) include the legendary House of Blues, with its signature Gospel Brunch, and Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen. While these are geared primarily for the adults in your group, there are plenty of special shows and entertainment for children.

You don’t really need the Disneyland special events calendar for many special events, as they are held regularly. The fireworks over Sleeping Beauty’s Disneyland Castle are the most iconic, held every evening throughout the summer and on holidays. The show changes with the seasons, and there are special displays for certain holidays. The Disney princesses and characters, beloved by generations of children around the world, can be seen parading and performing throughout the resort. Some Disneyland shows, like the nighttime spectacular World of Color lagoon show held at the California Adventure Park, have periodic extra performances open only to annual pass holders. These people have the opportunity to present their annual pass for a Fastpass in the evening, instead of first thing in the morning. They can then attend the show and additionally have exclusive use of some attractions. Watch as more than 1,200 fountains spurt water more than 200-feet high—a spectacular to rival the famous Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas.

Some Disneyland events can celebrate very personal occasions, such as a Quinceanera, the gala celebration of a girl’s fifteenth birthday that is a tradition throughout many parts of Latin America. This is an elaborate affair that is comparable to a Bat Mitvah or Sweet Sixteen birthday party in other cultures. The park offers Quinceanera vacation packages that include a two-night or longer stay at one of the Disneyland hotels, lunch with Disney princesses at Ariel’s Grotto, and much more. Fairytale weddings are also popular, and there are vacation packages for these more sophisticated events. Make your arrangements in advance for family reunion picnics, graduation night festivities, and any other special occasion. You can book a princess for the special occasion, a sophisticated wedding and reception venue, or any number of characters including Mickey himself.

Disneyland Flights

Disneyland flights will usually take you into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) if you are coming from any considerable distance away. If you are coming from a foreign country, this is undoubtedly where you will first land. This is also true if you are coming from the East Coast of the United States. Numerous Disneyland flight and hotel packages are offered into this facility, both by DIsneyland hotels themselves as well as many different travel agents and tour operators around the world. Check into the booking tool right on this page to help you find great deals on hotels, vacation packages, flights, and more.

LAX is one of the busiest airports in the world. It is located a bit south of Los Angeles city center, and the freeways that lead to Disneyland Park (I-405, I-105, and I-5) have some of the heaviest traffic in the metropolitan area. It is possible to catch Disneyland flights into one of the other airports in the area in order to avoid this traffic. Even flying into San Diego can possibly save on commuting time. It is only a couple driving hours away; it is possible to spend up to four hours in traffic getting from LAX to Anaheim during the peak commuting hours.

You can look for Disneyland flight and hotel packages that fly into San Diego or into a few other southern California airports. These include Burbank Bob Hope International Airport, the Ontario International Airport (near the resort area of Palm Springs), the Palm Springs Airport itself, John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, and Long Beach Airport (the closest major facility to Anaheim). Some operators will offer flight and hotel packages that stay in more than one place, including a night or two at Disneyland, so you can build an entire southern California vacation.

Disneyland flight and hotel packages that stay in one of the Disney resorts are available only from the Disney Vacation Club. However, these are marketed through an extensive network of national and international travel agents and tours operators, so you can purchase them from just about anywhere in the world. The resort hotels include the Grand Californian Hotel located in the California Adventure Park, the Disneyland Hotel, and Paradise Pier Hotel in the Downtown Disney District. Guests have complimentary access to all the hotel facilities, including the fitness center and recreational facilities. These properties located only steps away from the theme parks are understandably more expensive. Disney also offers vacation packages staying at less expensive hotels in the surrounding Anaheim area, which are still very close.

When you combine your Disneyland flights with various packages, park admission tickets are invariably included. The tickets usually include same-day admission to both Disneyland and the California Adventure Park, as well as theme park tickets for various rides and attractions. Other features might also include a Magic Morning early admission, providing an opportunity to interact with the iconic princesses and characters before the general public is allowed in and preferred seating at many of the California Adventure Park shows. There are various other promotions offered throughout the year, including extra benefits for stay of a certain length and packages for weddings and other special events. You can even schedule a welcoming phone call from the Disney character of your choice to delight the children in your group.

Things to do in Disneyland, California

Things to do in Disneyland consist of all the things you might normally expect of a world-class theme park, beginning first and foremost with the famed Disneyland rides and the iconic Disney princesses and characters that have been loved by generations of children. For visitors young and old, this theme park has things to do for everyone who walks through its gates.

Dining

Even dining here is can be an event, whether you’re a child delighting in sharing the table with one of the beloved princesses and characters or an adult swinging to jazz at the House of Blues. You can experience the famous Cajun and Creole cuisine of New Orleans at the Blue Bayou restaurant in the Pirates of the Caribbean area. There is exclusive gourmet dining and places that will pack the picnic of your choice. Even casual snack places are not run of the mill, and some of the most popular Disneyland attractions are the dining spots.

Events

Things to do in Disneyland that are almost unavoidable include enjoying the many events that occur throughout both theme parks and the Downtown Disney District with virtual daily regularity. Possibly the most famous of these events are the iconic fireworks displays that have been held since the park first opened. The explosions of color behind the Sleeping Beauty Disneyland Castle happen each evening throughout the summer as well as on other holidays like New Years Eve. There are also parades happening pretty much every day throughout the year.

Rides

The Disneyland attractions that thrill are among the most popular. Little children will enjoy the Alice ride and the Disneyland Railroads. Older children and adults will thrill to the California Screamin’ roller coaster and Splash Mountain (be aware that you will probably get wet on this one). There are themed rides that take you on journeys into some of the most popular family movies, including Dumbo the Flying Elephant ride and Indiana Jones Adventure.

Tours

First time visitors who may not be familiar with all the Disneyland attractions or the parks’ layout can benefit from guided tours, especially if their vacations will last two or more days. There are several excellent tours available that can be included in vacation packages. They generally last from two to four hours, and offer everything from an introductory overview to a private in-depth VIP tour (four-hour minimum) with a personal VIP tour guide. Tours are available in both Disneyland Park and the California Adventure Park.

Shopping

Another of the popular things to do in Disneyland is shop, and shopping can be as much of an event as dining. There are wonderful souvenir and themed items to buy that go beyond the typical. Of course, there are logo mugs, tee shirts, and Mickey Mouse ears, but there are high-end fashion boutiques and even a sophisticated gallery with one-of-a-kind museum quality pieces.

Shows

Parades and fireworks can certainly be considered shows, but other Disneyland attractions include light and water shows held in various areas of Disneyland and the California Adventure Park. Try Fantasmic! Inspired by the film Fantasia, which is held in the Rivers of America or the World of Color in the California Adventure Park. There are also live musical shows in both parks and the Downtown Disney District, and international music headliners are featured at the House of Blues and Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen.

Weddings

You may think a place beloved by children around the world is not exactly the kind of place for a sophisticated grown-up wedding, but you would be wrong. There are both elegant and fanciful venues for the ceremony, from the gardens of the Disneyland Hotel to the Sleeping Beauty Castle. The Grand Californian Hotel and the Paradise Pier Hotel also offer wedding and reception venues. There are professional wedding planners on staff, and all these hotels have accommodations that cater to romantic couples on honeymoons. In this day of blended families, one of the things to do in Disneyland is more and more often getting hitched and enjoying the honeymoon with the children. There are in-room child care options available so adults can enjoy a night out alone, and the resorts hotels offer supervised child programs.

Disneyland, California

Disneyland is one of the top vacation destinations in the US. Like a little bit of Middle America grafted onto the southern edge of Los Angeles, inland Orange County used to feel like a totally different world. Though the demographics have changed considerably in the past decade or two, in contrast to L.A.'s fast-paced, edgily creative multiethnic stew, Orange County in the 1950s and 1960s was suburban America writ large: mostly white, mostly well-off, and not the most exciting place to be. In short, a perfect place to build the ultimate escapist fantasy, the self-proclaimed Happiest Place on Earth: Disneyland.

The phenomenon of Disneyland has been done to death by all sorts of social critics but the truth is, it can be great fun, especially if you visit out of season and get there early to avoid the crowds, and really immerse yourself in the extroverted joy of it all. Most of the rides are great, each in different ways, from the Pirates of the Caribbean, which inspired the movie of the same name, Space Mountain, and the Mad Tea Party, also known as the classic spinning teacup ride.

If you haven't been before, or not for a while at any rate, here are some useful tidbits of information: Disneyland is 20 miles south of downtown L.A., right off I-5 in the city of Anaheim, and you can see the Matterhorn ride from the freeway. The park is open daily at least 10 am to 6 pm, including winter weekends; in summer, it remains open until midnight. Admission to the park includes all rides, with discounts for extended visits, and tickets are cheaper for kids under 12. For further park details, including opening hours, call Disneyland (714-781-7290).

Disneyland opened in 1955, when there was nothing around it; in intervening years an entire metropolis has grown up around it, and in 2001 the park was joined by the much smaller, more grown-up oriented California Adventure. Instead of cuddly cartoon characters, this billion-dollar park has thrill rides like California Screamin, a 60-mph roller coaster, and the excellent Soaring Over California motion simulator, offering an airborne tour of the Golden State from Yosemite to the Malibu beaches. California Adventure is totally separate from Disneyland, but the hours and admission are about the same.

The whole Disney ensemble is surrounded by motels and more motels, and it's well worth staying overnight so you can get an early start, go rest for a while, and come back for the nightly fireworks show. A highly recommended place to stay is the West Coast Anaheim Hotel, a block from Disneyland at 1855 S. Harbor Boulevard (714-750-1811), offering spacious modern rooms (and a nice pool) at reasonable rates, with free parking and free shuttles every half-hour to and from Disneyland. For more lodging and other travel information, call the Anaheim Convention and Visitors Bureau (714-758-0222).

Avenue of the Giants, California

With all the talk of Giant Redwoods in California, you might just be wondering what its all about. There are three species of Giant Redwood trees in the world, and two of these are located in California. The coastal Redwood is what you will find at the Avenue of the Giants and the other parks that have Redwoods in them, like Humboldt Redwood State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods Park, and the Redwood National Park.

The Sequoia National Park is where the first Giant Sequoia were found, but the Coastal Redwoods actually grow taller than the Sequoia Trees inland. The old growth Redwood Trees on the coast are 200 years old and grow to over three hundred feet in height. The famous Avenue of the Giants is a scenic drive that California is known for, and is a thirty-one mile drive through the Humboldt Redwoods State Parks.

While the Sequoia National Park is no less impressive than the coastal redwood trees, it is an entirely different experience. In fact, there are miles of Redwood forests that you can include on your drive through the Avenue of the Giants. The Avenue of the Giants meanders alongside Highway 101 through the Humboldt Redwood State Park, following an overall similar route but varying slightly. There are clearly marked signs directing you to the highway where you can drive through an ancient grove of giant Redwood Trees.

Tourists come every year to drive along this scenic highway to see the main attraction, which is the Giant Sequoia. There are a few different trees that are known for their own unique features. You will be amazed that some of these trees have continued to grow despite all that they've been through.

The Chimney Tree stands at 78 feet, and is not impressive in size but you will be amazed that it is still growing after being nearly destroyed in a wildfire in 1914. It is close to Hobbiton, which gets a lot of visitors as well who are going to the Redwood National Park and other places with giant Sequoia trees in the area. This is in Phillipsville, along with the One Log House, which is a log house which up of a 40-ton log from a fallen Redwood tree. Most visitors know about the Shrine Drive through tree, which can accommodate smaller vehicles. The Immortal Tree still stands near Redcrest, having endured flooding, fires, and numerous lightning strikes.

Although the official tallest Sequoia Trees has changed over the year, the latest and the tallest can be found in the Founders Grove, which is named after the founders of the Save-the-redwoods league, who lobbied to protect the forest and these ancient trees. Here you can find what used to be the biggest Giant Sequoia tree, the Dyerville Giant. This giant Redwood fell to the ground on March 24, 1991, and lost it reputation as the largest of the Redwood trees.

The Avenue of the Giants is an awe-inspiring 31-mile drive through Humboldt Country and the fog shrouded, mystical beauty of the Northern California wilderness. The small towns you'll find the way welcome tourists who come to see the Giant Sequoia grove, which is protected as an International Biosphere reserve and a world heritage site. Visitors stop in Phillipsville, just south of the Giant Redwood trees for supplies and restaurants, take a dip in the river, or to stay in the motel for the night.

One of the most unforgettable parts of a California vacation is seeing these 2,000 year old giants who tower majestically over the misty woods of California, and can be found from the prairies and the rivers to the 37 miles of pristine Northern California Coast, where you can find the Redwood National Park.

17 Mile Drive, California

Some of the most dreamy, idyllic vistas anywhere in California can be found on the 17 Mile Drive from Monterey to Carmel. Monterey is a quiet coastal city that has had its beginnings as the capitol of California under Spanish Rule. The town of Monterey California is about a two-hour drive south of San Francisco, and the town of Carmel California is on the other side of the Monterey Peninsula.

The Central Coast is home to groups of migrating Gray whales, protected nature reserves, and some of the loveliest views of the Pacific. Monterey has a National Marine sanctuary, and there is also one at Point Lobos, just past Carmel. The city of Monterey also has a historic wharf and marina, and is home to the world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.

If you're on a scenic drive down Highway 1 then this scenic drive is where the beauty of the Monterey Peninsula is on display. The 250 year-old Lone Cypress is the enduring symbol of the Monterey Peninsula.

The 17 Mile Drive is an outdoor attraction but there is a road toll. $8 will get you a map, a handy guide to the scenic drive and admission to the park. It will tell you about the history of this route, which has been in use since the 1880s. When you see the spectacular vistas, you will understand why the 17 Mile Drive has become so famous; its beauty is just unsurpassed.

Carmel California has changed a lot since those early day, when the scenic tour of Carmel started at the Hotel Del Monte in Monterey, weaving through the Del Monte Forest, which has just been planted. This part of the coast used to be wild and untamed, but the unsurpassed views spurred development. Two golf courses, Cypress Point and Pebble Beach were built, and then expensive homes and the most luxurious lodging in Carmel California soon followed after.

The 17 Mile Drive takes you right by Pebble Beach. Pull over and wander on the beach; you might find a golf ball that's been used in a championship round of golf. If you've already paid you toll for the drive from Monterey to Carmel, then you get a discounted lunch or dinner at the Lodge at Pebble Beach; a perk you won't get at other Carmel Hotels.

This and the Inn and Spanish Bay are incredibly comfortable and stylish places Carmel Hotels. If you've just done the drive to Carmel at sunset, enjoy the savings on dinner and enjoy an evening in some of the finest lodging in Carmel California. These country club style resorts are some of the luxurious Carmel Hotels around. The Inn at Spanish Bay has an excellent gallery featuring work of the nature photographer Ansel Adams. The Lodge at Pebble Beach

You can do it all on the Monterey Peninsula and Carmel California. You can golf, drive, see animals, bird watch, have dinner, take great pictures and spend the night at some of the most centrally located lodging in Carmel California so you can be in the heart of it all. The 17 Mile Drive and the Central Coast should be a part of every California Vacation.

Things to do in Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica has a host of activities and attractions to offer. With its history of film and music culture, and its lively arts scene, culture buffs have no lack of fun things to do in Santa Monica, and the friendly stretch of Santa Monica State Beach is the perfect place for surfing, lounging, and people-watching. Shoppers will enjoy the experience of browsing the stores while street musicians and artists entertain them, and the party set will find no shortage of bars, clubs, and other nightly Santa Monica activities. Here are a few suggestions to help you find exactly the right things to do in Santa Monica.

Surf at Santa Monica Beach

Surfing at Santa Monica's beaches is one of many travelers' favorite things to do in Santa Monica, and it is permitted year-round, though there are some limitations during the summer months depending on how many swimmers are around. Surf schools and lessons abound, as well as surf shops. If you are a beginner learning how to ride a wave for the first time, Santa Monica's mild surf makes it a great place to start.

Ride the South Bay Bike Trail

Cruising along the South Bay Bike Trail is one of many fun things to do in Santa Monica that are bound to draw the active and athletic. Twenty-two miles long, it stretches along the Pacific Coast from Malibu to Torrance, passing under the Santa Monica Pier and along the beach before continuing south through Venice. Jogging, biking, skateboarding, and rollerblading are popular along this trail.

Fish at the Historic Santa Monica Pier

Fishing is one of several free things to do in Santa Monica, as a license is not required. If you don't have your own fishing equipment and bait, rentals are available at the end of the Pier. Common fish that are caught at the Pier include perch, mackerel, white sea bass, and leopard and tiger sharks. Spend a lazy afternoon fishing in the sunshine, and feel that rush of excitement as you reel in your catch.

Shop at the Third Street Promenade

The Third Street Promenade is a palm-lined, outdoor pedestrian shopping district featuring quirky street performances by musicians and artists. It is home to trendy shops such as H&M, Anthropologie, American Eagle, and some posh boutiques including Armani. Some nice restaurants also line this street, and taking in a movie at one of the many movie theatres in the area is one of the classic Santa Monica activities.

Ride the Ferris Wheel at Pacific Park

Pacific Park is a free-to-enter amusement park located by the century-old Santa Monica Pier. The famous Pacific Wheel, which stood nine stories high, has recently been replaced with the world's first solar-powered Ferris wheel. A ride on the Ferris wheel, which shines with hundreds of LED lights, offers incomparable views over the Pacific Ocean. Pacific Park also includes many other fun things to do on a pay-per-ride basis, including a roller coaster that encircles the park.

Visit the Santa Monica Museum of Art

The Santa Monica Museum of Art is located in Bergamot Station, Southern California's largest art gallery and cultural complex. The museum's exhibits showcase contemporary artists' work on a local, national, and international level. Exploring Bergamot Station, originally a stop for the Red Line Trolley, is one of the more sophisticated of Santa Monica activities, and the station includes multiple galleries and a café on its eight-acre grounds.

Join the Twilight Dance Series

This annual music extravaganza runs during the summer months and is one of many free things to do in Santa Monica. Located on the Santa Monica Pier, it hosts live bands (in the past, this has included big names such as the Indigo Girls and Patti Smith) and is completely free of charge! In addition, you can dance the night away at special events celebrating the original La Monica Ballroom, historically the home of many original stars of swing, and one of many fun things to do in Santa Monica.

Party All Night in Santa Monica

Santa Monica's bars and clubs rival those of Los Angeles, but without the inconvenience of going all over the city to find them. Whether you're looking for a drink in an English pub or an electrifying dance club, Santa Monica has an astonishing variety of evening establishments in a relatively small area. The nightlife is happening in spots such as Main Street, the Third Street Promenade, on the beach, and around the Santa Monica Pier. A number of Santa Monica hotels also have popular bars and lounges, many of which offer a beautiful view of the evening skyline.

Santa Monica Beach

Many visitors come to Santa Monica just for the sun-drenched beaches, and with more than 300 sunny days every year, travelers are pretty much guaranteed good weather on a visit to a Santa Monica beach. The city has 3.5 continuous miles of beaches, including the two-mile long Santa Monica State Beach, and the original Muscle Beach to the south.

Santa Monica State Beach is located along the Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica, and it is the most popular destination for vacationers and families. Going to the beach in Santa Monica can mean different things for different people, but there is no shortage of things to do. For the surfers, going to Santa Monica Beach is an opportunity to catch a wave and browse the surf shops, while beginners try their luck at one of the popular surf schools. Skateboarders hang out on the streets and skateboard along the South Bay Bike Trail, which runs along the beach. The South Bay Bike Trail is also a favorite with joggers, rollerbladers, and cyclists.

Volleyball enthusiasts have their fill of beach volleyball competition at the free volleyball nets. Families picnic on the sand or at the restaurants lining Santa Monica beach, and lovers stroll along the water at sunset. Meanwhile, the jet set can hire a personal beach valet, known as a Beach Butler, to set them up with a couple of beach chairs, an umbrella and table, and some cold beverages. Yes, there is something for everyone at the beach in Santa Monica.

Santa Monica State Beach is also the setting for the world-famous 100-year-old Santa Monica Pier, accessible through the famous blue archway. Pacific Park, a family-oriented amusement park, is located by the Pier, with its landmark Ferris wheel, a roller coaster, and other pay-per-ride attractions. Families will enjoy the activities at Pacific Park as well as the 1922 hand-carved Hippodrome Carousel, a National Historic Landmark. Would-be fishermen can also fish off the end of the Pier without a license, and fishing equipment and bait are available for rent.

South of the Santa Monica Beach is the original 1930s "Muscle" Beach. While the Venice Muscle Beach gets most of the credit for bronzed body-builders lifting weights by the sand, the beach in Santa Monica originated the idea, with gymnastic and acrobatic performances held there in the 1930s on gym equipment provided by the city. Recently the equipment on the beach has been restored, and it continues to hold weightlifting events and has an extensive collection of gymnastic equipment. Some of the world's most famous bodybuilders trained here, including California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

There are also many hotels available on the beachfront with beautiful views of the ocean, and within easy walking distance of Santa Monica Beach are many fun things to do. These include the Third Street Promenade, a popular shopping area; the International Chess Park, with public chess tables and a human scale chessboard; and the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. Nevertheless, the pristine golden sand of Santa Monica Beach is what continues to draw sunbathers and water-lovers alike, and a vacation to this lovely Southern California city just wouldn't be complete without stopping by.

Beaches in Santa Monica , California

Santa Monica California is found just 16 miles to the west of Los Angeles and is one of the most highly-recognizable Los Angeles County cities. Home to around 90,000 people, some of whom are just as recognizable, it is a thriving coastal city that has long been a shining reference point for the southern California lifestyle. Vacations to Santa Monica are ideal for anyone who is looking for fine weather, proximity to Hollywood, and a nice strip of sand to relax on. The Santa Monica beaches, which actually form one continual beach, are a haven for those who are looking to escape the nearby urban hangouts, though come summertime, you won’t exactly find solitude on them. That’s just fine by most, as Santa Monica California is pretty much a see and be-seen kind of place.

The Santa Monica beaches, which are without question among the top attractions in Santa Monica, stretch for some 3.5 miles, giving visitors ample room to roam. They are also wide in most parts, which is beneficial during the busier summer months. Summer isn’t the only time that you will find warm beach weather here, as in 2004, the month of December saw a few straight days where the temperatures were in the 80’s! Usually, the winter temperatures here hover around 63 degrees, however, while in the summertime, temperatures in the mid-80’s are to be expected. On the northern side of Santa Monica, the beaches are backed by bluffs, which serve to more-or-less separate them a bit more from the actual city. Closer to the central stretch of sand here is where the famed Santa Monica Pier can be found. It’s almost a must that you at least take a quick walk on the Santa Monica Pier when enjoying vacations to Santa Monica, as it is one of the most renowned piers in the entire country.

The Santa Monica Pier, which for those who want to know its exact location, can be found on the section of beach where Colorado Avenue and Ocean Avenue meet. You can pay to park beneath the pier, and in addition to enjoying strolls on it, you can also check out its amusement park. The Pacific Park is found near the end of the pier and doesn’t cost money to visit. You will have to pay to enjoy the rides and games at the park, however, and it’s recommended that you consider riding the Ferris wheel for the views that it affords. The Santa Monica Pier’s amusement park is open daily, so regardless of when you plan vacations to Santa Monica, it is something that you can include on the itinerary. When you’re not hanging out on the Santa Monica Pier and riding the rides or doing some fishing, other activities that you can enjoy at the Santa Monica beaches include sand volleyball, surfing, bicycling, and of course, swimming. The Santa Monica beaches are known to have rather gentle surf conditions, so you might head further up the coast and hit some of the Ventura beaches if surfing is your aim. Also, since the beaches in Santa Monica California get crowded in the summer months, surfing is often only allowed at certain points.

Fishing off of the Santa Monica Pier is free for all to enjoy, meaning that you won’t need a license, and fishing equipment can be rented at the end of the pier if you are without. As mentioned, bicycling is also something that you can do at the beaches in Santa Monica, as there is a paved bicycle trail that runs along the coast here. Known as the South Bay Bicycle Trail, this trail is 22 miles long and starts near Malibu to the north and extends south towards the city of Torrance. In addition to cycling, it is also ideal for walking, jogging, rollerblading, and skateboarding. You’ll likely see people enjoying all of the aforementioned activities at the Santa Monica beaches on most days, and when folks aren’t spending time on the beach when in town, they are likely enjoying the other attractions in Santa Monica. Among them is the 3rd Street Promenade, which is a pedestrian-only section of town that is known for its eclectic shops and its street performers. No visit to Santa Monica would be complete without a visit to 3rd Street, that’s for sure.

Santa Monica Pier, California

The Santa Monica Pier, with its iconic blue archway, is one of the most famous and historic attractions in Santa Monica. Jutting out from Santa Monica Beach into the Pacific Ocean, the hundred-year-old pier is actually made up of two adjoining piers. The first was built in 1909 for purely practical reasons—carrying sewage pipes—and the second was built adjoining the first in 1916 by Charles I.D. Looff and his son, amusement park pioneers.

A walk along the pier in Santa Monica is filled with fun things to do. The Hippodrome Carousel is a National Historic Landmark, built by Looff in 1922, and each of the carousel's 44 horses is hand-carved. Fishing is permitted from the pier without a license, and fishing bait and equipment can be rented at the end of the pier. The aquarium is located under Santa Monica Pier, and it offers exhibits, activities, and educational programs to the public. Here visitors can see 104 species, including the California moray eel, sharks, octopuses, and many other marine animals.

Right by the Santa Monica Pier is the family-oriented amusement park, Pacific Park, which is one of the few free admission amusement parks left in California; visitors pay per ride on the park's myriad attractions. A favorite ride is the landmark Santa Monica Ferris wheel, which was recently replaced by a new solar-powered version, this one fitted with energy-efficient LED lights, after the classic wheel was auctioned to raise money for Special Olympics in Southern California. A ride on this nine-story wheel offers views of the Pacific Ocean in a unique setting, and the Santa Monica Ferris wheel remains one of the distinctive features of the city.

During the summer, visitors can participate in the annual Twilight Dance Series and the pier in Santa Monica. Every Thursday at 7 pm, live bands play at the Santa Monica Pier—past performers have included such names as the Indigo Girls and Patti Smith, as well as other talent from around the world. As the music plays, fans and tourists get to their feet and move to the rhythm. Often during the summer, free dance lessons are also held at the Santa Monica Pier, evoking memories of the classic Santa Monica Ballroom (known as La Monica), a venue by the pier where big names in Western Swing such as Spade Cooley once played.

Close to the pier in Santa Monica are many hotels, including distinctive landmarks such as the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, the Shangri-La, and the Casa Del Mar. Restaurants and the Third Street Promenade shopping area are also within easy walking distance of the pier. A visit to the city—and to Southern California in general—is not complete without a visit to the famous pier and the Santa Monica Ferris wheel.

Santa Monica California

The continuous 3.5 miles of golden beaches in Santa Monica California are the perfect place to bask in the glowing rays of the sun, catch a wave, or challenge other sun-worshippers to a game of beach volleyball. With over 300 fine, sunny days every year, trips to Santa Monica are almost guaranteed to result in golden tans, as a glance around the beach will attest. Santa Monica is located on the western edge of Los Angeles County, just ten miles from Los Angeles International Airport, and is in close proximity to other Southern California destinations such as Malibu, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Universal Studios, and Disneyland.
Santa Monica



Beaches are often the prime destination for a vacation in Santa Monica California. With their pristine strips of sand, they are the perfect place to indulge in some much needed relaxation. The more athletically inclined visitors will appreciate the opportunities for jogging, rollerblading, biking, and skateboarding on the South Bay Bike Trail, and they'll jump at the chance to play volleyball or throw a Frisbee around.

If sipping a cold drink while lounging by the shore is more your thing, your vacation in Santa Monica can include the services of a Beach Butler, a private valet who will set up beach chairs, a table, and an umbrella for you, and serve you cold drinks. Surfing is also an obsession in Santa Monica, as in most of Southern California, and is permitted year round at Santa Monica beaches.

Santa Monica travel includes more than just beaches, however. No vacation in Santa Monica would be complete without a visit to the 100-year old Santa Monica Pier and the adjoining Pacific Park, a historic amusement park that includes the famous Santa Monica Ferris Wheel, a vintage carousel, and many other things to do. On summer evenings, soak up the warm weather and the music, and dance along with the crowd at the weekly Twilight Dance Series held at the Pier.

Santa Monica California, with its proximity to LA and other popular destinations, is understandably a treasure trove for film aficionados, with vintage movie theaters and the popular Santa Monica Film Festival gracing its screens every year. Movie theaters dot many main areas, including the Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian shopping district not far from the beaches that boasts many trendy chain stores, boutiques, and restaurants.

During their vacation in Santa Monica, patrons of the arts need not fear a cultural desert as Santa Monica is home to more than 100 art galleries, including the Santa Monica Museum of Art, and there are performances at many theaters, including the newly built state-of-the-art Broad Stage. Food and wine lovers can also rejoice, as Santa Monica travel also includes many fine restaurants and top chefs, many of whom are leaders in market-to-table movement of Californian cuisine, with dishes made from the freshest organic ingredients.

If you'd like to do your own cooking or just want fresh fruits and vegetables, one of Southern California's best farmers markets takes place on the Third Street Promenade every Wednesday and Saturday. When the sun goes down, travelers who still have energy can join in a happening nightlife on Main Street, or fall asleep in one of Santa Monica's hotels right by the beach, such as the historic and newly renovated Shangri-La Hotel, a testament to the timelessness of Art Deco beauty.

Santa Monica travel is sure to please the bar-hopper, the surfer, and the beach lounger alike, and a vacation here offers a variety of options to suit any visitor, no matter what their tastes and budget may be.

Santa Cruz Boardwalk, California

One of the best places to enjoy a beautiful beach and good old-fashioned fun on the Central California coast is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. There is fun for people of all ages, since there is lots of great food, fun rides, and a warm, sunny beach where you can play volleyball or go swimming.

Though the city of San Francisco rarely gets much warmer that 80 degrees at any time of year, other Bay Area cities get much warmer temperatures in the summer, since it doesn't get the fog that the peninsula does. A favorite way to cool off and enjoy the sun is at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, which is popular in the summer, since it is only a short hour and a half drive from San Francisco.

One of the highlights of visiting the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is the Big Dipper, which is one of the oldest wooden roller coasters still in use. Although there is some fog hanging around in the morning, it usually burns off by noon. You'll want to wait until the afternoon to enjoy the views of the Pacific, the nearby mountains, and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk from the ferris wheel.

If you are planning to spend a weekend in Santa Cruz, you should arrive early and buy a wristband that gives you access to the rides all day long, so you can go on your favorites over and over again. Check into a Santa Cruz hotel so you don't have to worry about wet bathing suits and sand in your car, and you can stay as late as you like.

On Sunday morning, there is a great brunch at the Coconut Grove. Whether you're a couple, or a family with young children, you can have a blast at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk on a summer weekend. There are often concerts on Friday and Saturday nights, and the Santa Cruz hotels fill with visitors who want to spend a weekend here without having to drive home after a long day of exhausting fun on the Santa Cruz Boardwalk.

From the carousel to the arcade, to the silly games like laser tag and mini golf, kids will not want to leave after just a day of fun, which is all the more reason to get a Santa Cruz hotel and take your time enjoying the beach and the boardwalk. Popular all summer long with tourists and visitors from the area, the Santa Cruz Boardwalk can have a lot of lines, but they move quickly, and overall, it doesn't take that long to travel from one end of the beach to the other.

The Central Coast has a relaxed, welcoming environment. Its not the like bustling, crowded California attractions to the south. So, check into a charming bed and breakfast or one of the comfortable Santa Cruz hotels, and prepare to emerge relaxed, tanned and happy after your trip to the boardwalk.

Santa Cruz, California

With a warm beach and the boardwalk on center stage, Santa Cruz is a fun-filled place to spend a family vacation on a sunny holiday weekend. Adults and children of all ages love the attractions of the seaside park at Santa Cruz Beach. The only other oceanfront amusement park is on the Southern California Beach, at the Santa Monica Pier.

The oldest surviving theme park in California today, the Santa Cruz Boardwalk has an old-fashioned wooden roller coaster, and fun carnival themed ride. Taking a ride on the Big Dipper, and you will enjoy a ride on of the most famous wooden coaster in the country. The fact that it is a wooden coaster doesn't mean you won't be impressed. The wooden boards tremble under the coaster cars, making riders hearts pound. One perk of riding the Giant Dipper on Santa Cruz beach is the thrilling 20-second view of the hills above Santa Cruz and the Pacific Ocean.

Santa Cruz beach has a stage that hosts live performances in the summer. If you've spent a wild afternoon on the rides, lying in the sand and enjoying live music is a great way to wind down. California Beaches used to be home to the best amusements parks. You can come to Santa Cruz and experience wholesome fun that never goes out of style. If you're on a California Vacation, a visit to Santa Cruz CA gives you a taste of every day life in on the Central Coast.

Mavericks is a local surfing competition that brings a lot of visitors to Santa Cruz and the nearby beaches. While the Central Coast and the Santa Cruz beach front areas normally have a fairly relaxed pace, you can feel the excitement in the air when this surf competition begins. Surfers from around the globe scramble to get to the beach with only a couple days notice. The town of Half Moon Bay gets swamped with visitors who are coming to Montara Bay to see the giant waves.

Mavericks is a powerful wave which towers three to five stories when its rises to its full height and crashes with deadly force. An interesting combination of factors combine to create a surfing area challenging enough to rival Waimea Bay in Hawaii and draw world class surfers to risk their life on enormous waves which are the product of winter storms in the Pacific. About a half mile from shore is where the giant wave breaks without a shallow reef that most other beaches have that dissipate the water's force. Get a spot up on the hillside of Montara Beach and bring binoculars to watch these daring surfing tempt fate.

If you fall in love with the Oceanside life on your California Vacation and tire of the busy campgournd, you might want to spend a weekend in a nearby area Santa Cruz Hotel. A tranquil place to retreat after an exciting day is the Best Western Seacliff Inn in nearby Aptos. These rooms at this Santa Cruz Hotel are clean, comfortable and reasonably priced. Families will appreciate the value and quality of the roomy guest suites, which are spacious enough to accommodate the whole family. Another popular place to stay right on the beach is the Coast Santa Cruz Hotel.

The Coast Santa Cruz Hotel is a vacation rental and hotel within easy walking distance to the beach and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. You get ocean views from your room a the Coast Santa Cruz Hotel since there is nothing in the way of your window and the Santa Cruz beach. The surf culture that is centered on the beaches of the Central Coast means that there is no lack of camping in the nearby California State Parks and excellent beaches along the way. The combination of surf, sun, and small town life means that you will have a warm welcome in Santa Cruz hotels and just about anywhere else you travel in this city.

Santa Barbara, California, USA

If you're looking for the sunny shores and seaside living of Southern California, Santa Barbara fills all your California dreams. The charming ocean side town has great beaches with big waves crashing on the sandy shore. The downtown area is filled with stucco and red tile Mission Era buildings. Although Santa Barbara CA is three times larges than it was 50 years ago, you can still enjoy a relaxed coastal town atmosphere.

The Santa Barbara waterfront is great place to enjoy outdoor activities like rollerblading, jogging and beach volleyball. Stearns Wharf extends out into the bay, giving you prime views of the ocean and the nearby beaches.

State Street has a lot of pedestrians taking in a nice walk through the fine shops, restaurants and bars of the downtown area. You can get the bird's eye views of Santa Barbara CA from above at the observation tower at the County Courthouse. You can look out across the lush gardens of the Courthouse grounds and the red-tile roofs beyond.

About a mile from State Street is one of the well-known landmarks of Spanish revival architecture, the Mission Santa Barbara. Well-kept gardens and manicured lawns frame this lovely rose-colored building, from which you can enjoy excellent views of the city below and shoreline beyond it. You can visit here every day from 9am to 5pm, and there is a $2 admission fee.

Whether you're passing through or on a Southern California vacation, you'll want to spend a day here. Enjoy an evening at one of the fine Santa Barbara hotels as a comfortable end to your enjoyable day. The West Beach Inn Coast Hotel is a great value, since you get excellent perks like free continental breakfast, central location, a fine pool, and excellent service that you would expect to find at more expensive Santa Barbara hotels. This is a great place to recharge before you start a scenic drive up the Central Coast. For those on a smaller budget looking for reasonably priced Santa Barbara hotels, the Banana Bungalow fits the bill.

Aside from the historic buildings downtown, which were all built after an earthquake many of the cities' buildings, there are other old buildings, and one is now a charming Santa Barbara Bed Breakfast. The Barberry Inn is an intimate place to stay that has all the comfort and charm of a homely setting. This house has been standing for over a hundred years, and it has a long history. This Santa Barbara Bed Breakfast was once a residence when it was first built in the late 1800s, then as a sorority house in the 1950's. The Barberry Inn is designated as a historic structure, so this place has character and char you would expect from a fine Santa Barbara Bed Breakfast.

The city of Los Angeles is 100 miles to the south, so Santa Barbara CA is a pleasant alternative to the teeming California Beaches that are more popular around the bigger cities to the South like San Diego and Los Angeles

San Luis Obispo, California

San Luis Obispo, known as SLO to locals, is rightly considered by its inhabitants as the gem of the Central Coast. While locals know that the town is one of the most charming attractions in California, the rest of the nation only recently found out that San Luis Obispo California is the happiest place in the world, thanks to a much-publicized Oprah episode. Once you visit this lovely town, it’s not hard to see why. With one of the largest farmers' markets in the area, miles of hiking and biking trails, a vibrant wine culture, a revitalized downtown, and close proximity to some great sandy beaches, San Luis Obispo is as close as you can get to paradise.

Spend the afternoon in San Luis Obispo strolling through the quaint downtown area, centered on Higuera Street, and browse the coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques. The area has some great-looking historic brick buildings and a laid-back atmosphere. Be sure to check out the historic Old Mission in the heart of the downtown area, where the old Spanish-style church is still in operation. Supposedly, the iconic California Mission tile was invented in San Luis Obispo California, as the Old Mission's roof kept catching fire, leading the early fathers to create the clay tiles as a better roofing material. As you walk through the downtown streets, don't miss Bubblegum Alley, a narrow alley that is plastered from floor to roof with old bits of bubble gum that passers-by have stuck there. You may contribute to this tacky collection if you wish!

Thursday night is farmers market night in San Luis Obispo, and you'll quickly see why this is one of the most popular things to do in the county. The smoky smell of Santa Maria-style barbecued tri-tip steak greets your nose, and you can eat your fill of tri-tip sandwiches, burgers, ribs, and other local specialties. Local farms bring out their best produce, and gourmet artisans offer free samples of almonds, local honey, olive oil, and other goodies. Meanwhile, local bands and street entertainers regale you with their talents. For a great local restaurant, check out Firestone on Higuera Street—it’s not the tire company, but rather the name of a local family that has become a bastion of the Central Coast. Their downtown restaurant is usually packed with college students from nearby California Polytechnic State University (otherwise known as Cal Poly), but if you manage to grab a seat, their tri-tip sandwiches, pulled-pork sandwiches, famous barbecue sauce, and burgers are a treat.

Surrounding San Luis Obispo California are several tall hills combed with trails, and a moderate hike up Bishop's Peak is a must for amazing views of the town and the surrounding countryside. On your way back into town you may want to stop off at the Madonna Inn, a bubble gum-pink monstrosity of a hotel that is famous for its kitschy décor and has become an integral part of the SLO landscape.

If you're itching for a glimpse of the ocean, a fifteen-minute drive from SLO takes you to Avila Beach, a small seaside town where you can enjoy the fine sand and sun. The pier at Port San Luis right beside Avila is one of the few piers you can drive your car onto, and is home to a noisy colony of sea lions. About twenty minutes south of SLO you get to the popular Pismo Beach, where you can surf, drive your vehicle out onto the beach and have a bonfire in the sand. From SLO you can also drive out to Montana de Oro State Park, where a winding road through eucalyptus groves takes you to a pebbly beach and some beautiful trails on top of the bluffs overlooking the ocean. Further north, try kayaking around the huge round rock sticking out of the ocean at Morro Bay.

At the end of the day, rest up at one of the quaint San Luis Obispo hotels and enjoy a bottle of local wine from San Luis Obispo County, or the nearby wine region of Paso Robles, as you prepare for another adventurous day ahead.

San Jose Tech Museum

Tech Museum Once upon a time, the San Jose Tech Museum was just a mere dream. In 1978, enthusiastic members of the Junior League of Palo Alto joined with the San Jose League to collaborate on their vision of an exciting learning center that would be devoted to science and technology. The first 20,000 square foot temporary exhibit made its debut in 1990. In October of 1998, the San Jose Tech Museum opened its doors. The facility was 132,000 square feet. That day 2,800,000 visited the San Jose Tech Museum.

Tech Museum Today, the Tech Museum in San Jose is also known as the Tech Museum of Innovation or simply The Tech. The Tech Museum in San Jose is located in Silicon Valley, in the downtown section of San Jose. The major focuses of the Tech Museum in San Jose is technology and its effects on who we are and how we live, work, play and learn. The Tech has become both a research center as well as an educational and cultural venue for visitors and local alike. The museum serves as a showcase for latest high-tech gizmos and gadgets that are the essence Silicon Valley. Because of its versatility, it has become a major San Jose tourist attraction.

The San Jose Tech Museum is composed of three fascinating floors. Each of these floors has its own special significance. Like any other San Jose museum, the ground floor is where you will find the main entrance, a unique gift shop and cafe, the IMAX Theater, and a recreational area that is set aside for special events. The Hackworth IMAX Theater is named after Mike and Joan Hackworth. This popular San Jose tourist attraction shows a variety of 3-D movies such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to Batman Begins. Sport films are phenomenal on IMAX. If you could not make it to the Tour de France, you'll love to see Wired to Win: Surviving the Tour de France. While you may have seen these films at the theaters on television or on video, it is quite amazing to watch them with crystal clear images ranging up to eight stories high. With 13,000 watts of wrap-around digital surround sound, you will believe that you are truly part of the film.

The second floor of the Tech Museum in San Jose is where you can find most of the permanent exhibits. Occasionally, many of these exhibits become modified. The lower level of the San Jose Tech Museum contains the areas for temporary exhibits which are often changed. Since there is always something new at the museum, it remains a popular San Jose tourist attraction.

The Board of Directors of the San Jose Tech Museum has a definitive mission. They believe that future of the well-being of the United States is dependent innovation and development in advanced technologies. With this in mind, they strive to inspire students with interactive exhibits, empower teachers with training in the current technological applications and enable visitors from parts of the world to explore and enjoy the wonders of technology.

San Jose, California

San Jose is the capitol of the high tech world and the Mecca of Silicon Valley. This clean, modern city is home to cutting edges museums and near perfect weather.

San Jose California also used to be the first state capitol of the state of California, and today the city exceeds San Francisco as the biggest city in the Bay Area.

While it may not be home to major attractions when you compare it to cities like Los Angeles, San Jose California is a significant population center in the San Francisco Bay Area. San Jose is south of San Francisco, a short 45-minute drive north. Many travelers get cheaper plane tickets when they fly into San Jose International Airport, since flights to California often cost more if they're landing in San Francisco.

San Jose California has some of the most innovative museums, so it is a leader in a cultural aspect in addition to the technological. The Discovery Childrens Museum is a fun, interactive museum where kids and adults can learn in a fun way. Over 3 million visitors have come to the Discovery Childrens Museum since it first opened in 1990. The excitement of visiting this San Jose CA museum never ends, since there are whole new interactive exhibits every year at the Discovery Childrens Museum. The museum was expanded in 1997, and today, more visitors than ever come to visit this interesting purple building.

The San Jose Tech Museum has been around about the same time. The idea for this high-tech learning center was first born in 1978. You can see technological innovations that are now an everyday part of life, and the latest software gadgets showcased in fun interactive exhibits. There is a Tech challenge every years that more that 8,000 kids have come to over the part eleven years that this event has been held. It is obvious that San Jose California is a forward thinking city. It is also ethnically diverse, clean and safe, making it a model city.

There are also pieces of history alive in San Jose CA, such as its Mission. This church was rebuilt on it original site in 1982. When its was rededicated in 1985, The San Jose Mission looked a lot like it did when it was first erected in 1809. You can see the beautiful church interior which takes you a time long past.

Some San Jose hotels have just as much significance, and the Hotel De Anza is no exception. A tranquil courtyard and elegant lobby set the Hotel De Ana from other San Jose Hotels, along with its reputation of being a local landmark as well as a luxury boutique hotel that is right in the center of downtown. One of the fun perks is the late night deli buffet, so guests are welcome to raid the pantry, and feel right at home here since they are welcome at this complimentary benefit that any other Hotel San Jose California wouldn't provide.

The hotels Valencia has one of the most visually impressive rooms that compare well to any other Hotel San Jose California you can find. The dark colors of the carpet and fine mahogany furniture contrasts pleasantly with the bright gleaming restrooms. Every bed is covered with a sumptuous faux-fur cover, so you can rest in style and luxury that is a notch above other Hotel San Jose California has to offers you. You won't sacrifice convenience when you stay at the Hotel Valencia, since it has high sped Internet in every guests room, along with a Cisco IP phone. You will be hard pressed to find this winning combination of luxury and understated technology at other San Jose Hotels.

These hotels and attractions reflects the flavor of San Jose CA; a city with an irresistible mix of innovation, luxury and technology, with a dash of history.

Southern California

Los Angeles County and the city of Los Angeles are second in size only to New York. There is no lack of sunny beaches and bustling waterfront areas along the Southern Coast. Southern California is a large area where most of the population of California lives.

Southern California is famous for its beaches. From the forbidden private areas lined with multi-million dollar homes to the outdoor carnival that is Venice Beach, with its flamboyant street performers and ties to the 60's band, The Doors. California beaches are great for a number of things- from snorkeling at La Jolla Beach to surfing at Huntington Beach.

California Beaches are the center of outdoor fun. Forget the shopping malls; in Southern California the beaches are where it's at. From the Malibu Pier to the Boardwalk on Venice Beach, beautiful California beaches are the setting for the most fun you will have on a vacation. You can wander through the neat surf shops and look into some lessons, admire the street artists work, or just enjoy a cold drink at one of the beachside bars and take it all in.

Besides the sand and surf, another major reason people come to Southern California is Disneyland. This park isn't just for kids anymore; there is the main resort but there is also the Disney California Adventure Theme Park. Adults will enjoy this park, as will all members of the family. Disneyland is located in Anaheim, which is about 30 miles south of Los Angeles.

Santa Barbara is another major city in Southern California. This city is 100 miles north of Los Angeles, and it is a relaxing alternative to the bustle of San Diego and the glitz of LA. The houses here are built in a Spanish Mission style, reflecting its history, part of which included a requirement that all downtown buildings meet the same Spanish revival architectural style.

San Diego is the other major city in the area. With a world-class zoo, over 70 miles of beaches, and interesting neighborhoods filled with different ethnicities. Exciting theme and Adventure parks like SeaWorld and Lego Land makes San Diego perfect for family vacations. Many cruises to South America and Mexico depart from here, adding even more visitors to a very popular city in Southern California.

Whether you want to explore Hollywood or hang out at the cool beaches in San Diego, Southern California has no lack of the fun and sun you are looking for on your California Vacation.

Northern California Coast

Hundreds of miles of coastal hiking trails, giant redwood forests, and historic lighthouses are just a few of the things you will find on the Northern California Coast. Just north of San Francisco is the Point Reyes National Seashore. From the herds of elk to the endless miles of empty shoreline, this is the most peaceful and thought-provoking part of California Coast travel.

Within the park there is a Visitors Center. The Bear Valley visitor's center is where you can pick up area guides, and is a short walk from a Miwok Indian Village that has been recreated for visitors who stop here on their California Coast vacation. The Point Reyes National Seashore is not devoid of the fog that blankets San Francisco, so when you visit the scenic lighthouse at Point Reyes or explore the interesting cultural artifacts of the Indians that have lived in the area for thousands of years, you experience all these sights when they are wrapped in a mysterious white shroud that only adds to the haunting beauty of the California Coast. Nature buffs and hikers love to explore the nearly 150 miles of hiking trails, while camping in one of the four backcountry camping areas.

South of Point Reyes is Stinson Beach, where some shark attacks have been known to occur. This does not stop water lovers from riding the strong waves that come onto shore here. Whether you're going from North to South, the best way to experience the Northern California Coast is on Highway 1. This is a scenic drive that starts all the way up in Mendocino County and hugs the coast until you reach San Clemente, where it merges with Route 5.

A few hours up the coast is Mendocino County, which is an area many visitors to Northern California will visit on their California Coast travel. You can whale watch from the shore when migrating grey whales and the calves travel close to the California coast, right beyond where the waves emerge. You don't have to drive inland and go all the way to Willits to see giant redwoods, since there are plenty of them of the coast. The Avenue of the Giants is inland, but you can still see the same types of tress along certain stretches of the Northern California coast.

With museums, wineries, Redwood forests, wildlife watching and hiking opportunities, a California Coast vacation can hardly be called boring. While the empty beaches and lack or tourist infrastructure will keep many away, hardy travelers that appreciate simple living appreciate the quaint little towns and windswept, deserted beaches.

Just south of Mendocino, the Little River area has sights you should not miss. Fern Canyon is a popular place to visit. It is inside the 1,831 acres of Van Damme State Park. You can dive for abalone or simply enjoy the scenic hike on the ten miles of trails that takes you through a canyon carpeted in green ferns, and along the beach.

You can stay in a bed and breakfast and spend your days wandering on the beach, camp and hike, go golfing at the Little River Inn, or simply enjoy a relaxed weekend curled up in front of a fire at you own vacation rental on the coast. A California coast vacation is a scenic, invigorating trip that will inspire and delight you.

Northern California

If you want to see some of the most spectacular, diverse outdoor settings, you should plan a visit to Northern California. Far from the glitz of LA and the excitement of San Francisco, the north part of the California Coast is blissfully free of development, giving you plenty of room to wander and explore.

A California coast vacation is a great way to take in the majesty and remote beauty of Northern California. Along Highway 1, there are dozens of state parks with beach access and campsites. Towards the west, Northern California really shines. If you're taking a scenic drive down highway 1, be prepared to be awed.

If you're driving south on Highway 1, you will experience the most heart pounding moment of your driving career on the California Coast. On your left, you have oncoming traffic and sheer cliff walls. On your right, occasionally you will see a strategically placed guardrail, which is the only barrier between you and a long fall down to the cold waters of the Pacific. Trying to focus on the road while you pass the stunning views of the Pacific is a feat. This is definitely one of the most exciting parts of a California Coast vacation, for both the driver and the passenger.

Some of the mountain passes in Northern California can be just as scary. If you're smart, you'll have planned when to go. Many of these roads are closed in the winter but are fair game in summer, and there is still some snow around if you really want to see some. Adventurous types might see a new road going further up the mountain. Only the boldest drives would dare to tempt fate and test these logging roads, which are often covered in debris like sticks and small rocks. The lack of guardrails, logging trucks filled with enormous trunks, and thousands of feet of nothing on side might make you turn around and get back on the main road. The mountain passes are just as hair-raising as California Coast travel south on Highway 1.

The north part of the state has remote backcountry areas where you can explore areas like Mt Lassen Volcanic Park, which has sulfurous pool and steaming vents. Set in the Lassen National Forest, you can grab a map at the visitor center that will show you the route for the scenic byway. Mt Shasta has an interesting reputation among area locals and the native tribes who ascribe mysterious powers to the mountain. Mt Shasta is not actually part of the Sierra Nevada, it is considered part of the Cascades Mountain range, most of which is in Washington. Shasta is not extremely active one, but it is a volcano.

There are tons of National Parks and Forests in Northern California. On the California Coast, the Mendocino Forest drapes the highway in a deep green cloak that begins to block the suns rays early in the afternoon. Near the border with Oregon, you can explore the beauty of the Klamath National Forest on the State of Jefferson scenic byway. This is a great opportunity to see the over 100 types of mammals that live here.

California coast travel can take you through Giant redwoods, through marine sanctuaries, and along the country's best beaches. Northern California has some of the most pristine, secluded areas of the state, so this will definitely be one of the most spectacular, thrilling, parts of California Coast travel.

California Deserts

Drive east of Los Angeles and you will find the weather going from warm to hot as you enter the California Desert. Just a short drive east of LA, you will see the terrain begin to change as you enter the Palm Desert.

If you want to come visit the Palm Desert, you may not want to visit during the summer, since temperatures can be 30 degrees higher than in Los Angeles and San Diego. There is a scenic drive to Palm Desert that is a 155 miles round trip. Unless you're planning to stay and camp in Death Valley or get out of the car to explore, this trip will take about 5 hours. This time does include breaks, but not extended stops.

There is no other quick way to the Palm Desert, so you will want to begin your drive north of Escondido, where 1-15 and Rt. 76 meet. There is a gas station at this intersection, so you can fill up before heading out to drive to the desert attractions like Palm Springs, the Mojave Desert, and Joshua Tree.

One of the interesting places to visit in Palm Springs aside from the excellent spas is a park that is filled with desert life. The Living Desert Wildlife and Botanical Park has coyotes, hawks, wolves, mountain lions, and other desert animals in their natural habitat. You can hike along the trails or follow the paths through the ten different examples of desert ecosystems from all over the globe.

For a study in extremes, visit the Death Valley National Park. Here, you can explore over 3.3 million acres of pristine desert wilderness. With unique geological features and stunning wildlife, you will certainly be well aware that you're in the Mojave Desert.

With extreme temperatures and low elevations, Death Valley is the setting of record-breaking heat and contains the lowest part of the Western Hemisphere. Most of the California desert is within the Mojave Desert, which covers most of Southern California. Also within the Mojave Desert is Joshua Tree National Park, which is named after the gnarled, twisted Joshua Trees that dot the landscape.

It is within the Joshua Tree Park where the Mojave Desert ends and the Sonoran Desert begins. The Joshua Trees are in the higher elevations of the Mojave part of the desert. Interesting rock formations known as Inselbergs can also be observed here, and are federally protected.

While the California Desert may seem empty and uninhabited to some, there is lots to see. In the desert, one has to look with a closer eye- a quick glimpse of a running lizard or the delicate beauty of a flower bud will show you that there is life in the desert. If you're planning a trip to Southern California, make time to include a trip to Death Valley, Joshua Tree, and the other interesting places to visit in the California Desert.

Central Valley California

If you're on a California vacation, you will enjoy visiting places off the beaten path, and the Central Valley has quite a few of them. Most people have never heard of the Central Valley. Most people also don't know that 25% of America's food is produced here. While a visit to this area is not a typical part of a California vacation, it should not be missed, since this area represents the diversity of regions in the Golden State.

The Central Valley is like an enormous garden. Nestled between the mountain range that borders the Central Coast on the west and the Sierra Nevada and Mount Whitney to the East, the Central Valley is flat in comparison to its surroundings. The northern part of the Sacramento Valley is called the Sacramento Valley and the Southern Part, San Joaquin Valley.

There are no major tourist destinations, just 400 miles of verdant farmland and working class cities. This area is experiencing changes, however. The Central Valley is only a couple hours from the Los Angeles area, so people who work in the City of Angels are increasingly moving out to San Joaquin Valley to enjoy peace and wide open spaces they can't find anywhere in Southern California. This has resulted in an increase of subdivision housing and new developments. There is also an enormous Mexican American community in the area, many of whom which work illegally.

The major population center in this part of California is the city of Fresno, which is the largest city in the state that is not on the coast. With views of the foothills and the mountains beyond, rivers and tranquil lakes Fresno CA is a delightful city to visit. Fresno has a rich agricultural heritage is celebrated in various event and holidays, like the Fresno County Blossom Trail, which is held in the spring, and in the summer is the Fresno County Fruit Trail. From homegrown festivals to the biggest harvest celebration in California, Fresno CA is proud of its natural gifts and this is apparent in the lively festivities. Visitors who want to experience day-to-day life and experience a community feel will go to local events on their California tour.

Bakersfield California in another major city in the Central Valley. There is a strong art presence here in Bakersfield California, from the smaller art galleries to the Museum of Art. Musicians and artists like the artistic feel of the city, but so is California; especially the Central Coast, which would inspire even the most unimaginative painter. The graceful, elegant exterior of the downtown museum can be enjoyed from the street, or you can take a tour and admire the recent remodeling. Bakersfield California has a historic museum set on 16 attractive acres, which talks about the city's past at the Kern County Museum, and teaches you about traveling the scenic byways of Kern County.

Springtime in Kern County brings rushing rivers, perfect for white water rafting, and wildflowers that blanket the hills in vivid color. You should bring your camera along if you'd like to see wildflowers on your California tour. There are also a number of natural landmarks and hiking trails in the area. Some people who live in the area enjoy going to the Central Coast on their California vacation for wildlife watching, camping, and views of the ocean.

If you want to experience everyday life in a laid back town that is surrounded by peaceful farmland, you should included a visit to Central Valley on your California vacation.

Central Coast in California

A region of California in between the Bay Area and Santa Barbara, the central part of the California coast is an area known for its lack of large population centers and rich farmlands. The weather here is interesting; while it is somewhat foggy, there is still plenty of sun to enjoy once the heat of the days burns away the coastal condensation. With warm weather, unimpeded views of the ocean, and an amazing overall lack of development, visiting Central California is one of the loveliest, relaxing parts of your California tour.

If you're driving south from San Francisco on Highway 1, you will first drive through Pacifica on your California tour of the coast, which is just beyond South San Francisco. You will soon come upon Santa Cruz, a small college town with an utterly relaxed feel. You will find very little going on in Santa Cruz besides surfing and relaxing.

Further south, the rough coasts give way to more manicured waterfront areas as you approach Monterey. Due to the popular Monterey Bay Aquarium, this is a hub of activity, and probably the area of Central Coast California that has the most tourists. There is Cannery Row, which is where many of the tourists will visit on a California vacation to the coast. Beginning in the early 1900s, Cannery Row was where companies sprang up canning the fresh fish that was caught in the fish filled waters of Monterey Bay.

South of Monterey, Carmel is home to Pebble Beach, which is a world class golf course overlooking the Pacific. One major highlight of California Coast travel is the 17 Mile Drive. Although the area has become more developed in the past 30 years, its natural beauty still shines through. You can park at the nearby trailhead and walk it free of charge, or you can pay $7 and drive through the manicures gold courses, and multimillion-dollar homes overlooking the loveliest parts of the Central Coast California.

You will marvel at the fact that some of the most unspoiled beaches in the whole state are on the Central Coast California. Out of all the parts of California Coast travel, none is more inspiring that the pristine beaches of the central part of the California Coast. Here, there is a slight dip down to the beach in some areas, but overall, the boulder-studded shores can be easily reached on a short walk from your parked car.

This part of the California Coast between Carmel and San Simeon is known as Big Sur. The Big Sur region is filled with coastal parks, one being the Point Lobos State Reserve. Rare vegetation and coastal wildlife live here, along with some interesting geological features. Most of the wildlife can only be seen from a distance, so you will want to bring binoculars if you're going to visit here on your California vacation.

If you are enjoying you California Coast travel you can spend a night or two at the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. There is a big campground here, and a lodge you can stay in if you didn't bring any camping gear. Take a short hike on the trail to see the majestic Pfeiffer waterfalls.

The end of the Central coast California is San Simeon. This is where the mountains veer away from the coast, and are replaced by verdant, rolling hills. The big attraction here is Hearst Castle, which is perched on a hill above Highway 1. This is a must see if you get close to Big Sur on your California tour. A wealthy miner who was tired of camping out in the open on his ranch as asked San Francisco architect Julia Morgan to design a house. The 165-room estate was complete in 1947, which boasted walkways, pools and gardens covering a total of 127 acres.

Whether you're taking the scenic 17-mile drive around Carmel and Pebble Beach and stopping at the Lone Cypress or want to explore the otherworldly beauty of Hearst Castle, a California vacation to the Big Sur area will reward you with the most unforgettable vistas.

San Francisco Bay Area

The Bay Area is home to the lovely city of San Francisco, which is known all for being one of the most beautiful cities in the world. This was the center of the Summer of Love, and home to Haight Ashbury and the Greatful Dead. Aside from this, the San Francisco Bay Area is surrounded by some of the most captivating outdoor areas, like the windblown coasts of Marin County and the Monterey Peninsula to the south.

San Francisco California is one of those cities that becomes special to visitors who are fortunate enough to spend enough time here. It is a large metropolitan area when you factor in the surrounding cities such, but San Francisco is smaller in scale than other major cities around the country. In fact, most of the population of the San Francisco Bay Area includes the cities of Berkeley, Oakland, and San Jose, which is actually has a larger population than San Francisco.

The city of San Francisco California has an incredible array of neighborhoods, and is the center of culture in Northern California. The San Francisco Bay Area has an enormous Asian population, both Chinese and Japanese. In addition, the largest Afghan American population is in the Bay Area. Add a healthy dose of Indians and Arabs, and you have the diverse conglomerate that combines to create a unique experience every time you visit.

The Mexican American population is significant here; all the way from the San Francisco's Mission District to San Jose, Chicanos have a high profile in the San Francisco Bay Area. A visit to 16th and Mission will take you to the heart of Mexican culture. All the best taquerias serving the most authentic Mexican found are on every block, it is just a matter of which family's salsa recopies you enjoy.

Getting around the city is a breeze. Even if you get a good deal on a rental car, there is not a lot of parking, and if you do find parking, it is going to be expensive. The public transportation in San Francisco California is excellent. There is the streetcar, the Cable Car, the buses, the MUNI light rail, and the BART subway, which has recently added an extension to the San Francisco International Airport. The BART (which stands for Bay Area Rapid Transit) also goes to other local cities in the like Oakland and Berkeley.

San Francisco vacation packages take a lot of hassle and expense out of your trip to the city by the bay. Whether you purchase it online, from a hotel or through a travel agent, you can get lodging, airfare, and tickets to the top attractions when you purchase one of the many San Francisco vacation packages available to you. Attractions like a Bay cruise or a city tour is often included in the San Francisco vacation packages, so you know ahead of time roughly how much your trip is going to cost you.

Cities like Berkeley are smaller communities, but have a strong cultural feel to them. On the main strip called Telegraph Avenue, you can find Indian restaurants, rastas street vendors selling hemp jewelry, and hippies mixed in with the young college students that attend the nearby UC Berkeley. Oakland has a strong black community, and some of the best restaurants in the area. Oakland is probably one of the most industrial and least scenic cities in the San Francisco Bay Area, but it is a great way to enjoy the culture of the Bay Area from a different vantage point.

Just north of the city, across the Golden Gate Bridge, is one of the most exclusive areas in the entire Bay Area. Marin County has towns like Mill Valley, Tiburon and Sausalito that have some of the most expensive real estate in the San Francisco Bay area. Many of these houses are very old and beautiful, but sometimes you will see a brand new condo gleaming from the trees. The hills and valleys mean that there is little available real estate, and that is just the way the well-heeled residents who enjoy the ocean and bay views like it.

If you're planning a trip to California, you should definitely include a visit to the Bay Area. This relaxed, friendly, interesting, and lovely city charms the pants off anyone who comes to visit. Once you visit the city, you too will leave your heart in San Francisco.