California Vacation Must See Spots
California may be one of the most diverse places in the United States to take a vacation. Regardless if you are single, married, or traveling as a family, a California vacation truly has something for everyone. Nary will a night pass when everyone will not collapse in their room for sheer exhaustion for all of the fun they have had during the day. Here are a few California vacation spots to check out on your next vacation.
California vacation spots for the Kids
When traveling with children, parents need to find California vacation spots the kids will enjoy. Kids today are interested in vastly different things than parents where when they were growing up. However, just because they are more “inside” oriented does not mean parents will have trouble finding fun places for them on their California vacation.
Every kid loves Disney, and no California vacation would be complete without a trip to the Disneyland Resort. Kids will see their favorite characters come to life right before their very eyes. In addition, some of the best amusement park rides in the country are located here. One thing is for sure though, a couple of days are hardly enough to take everything in. Take 7-10 days to truly enjoy this magical California vacation spot.
San Diego is often considered an adult area, but there is also plenty to do here with the kids. For instance, the San Diego Zoo is known around the world and has some of the most unique and incredible animals in the world on display. In addition to the zoo, Sea World is also located here. For kids who life animals, marine life, and exotic animals, San Diego is a must see.
When the kids want to bring some of their action video games to life, Lake Tahoe is the place to be. This is a great California vacation spot for families that love outdoor sports. The area lends itself to such activities as snowboarding, skiing, hiking, fishing, and mountain biking. Whatever the outdoor activity of choice, it can happen here.
California vacation spots for the Adults
We would expect most adults to enjoy the activities we listed for the kids, but we need our fun too! Whether you are single, or just leaving the kids behind for a few days, a California vacation could be just what the doctor ordered. Adults can choose a more active vacation, something romantic, or see the incredible wines of the area.
Anyone who enjoys fishing will find some of the best fishing in the country in Southern California. Newport Beach is a local favorite and offers private charters along with party boats. If you have ever dreamed of pulling a 40-pound Yellowtail out of the ocean, head this way and you will not be disappointed.
If Romance is what you seek, San Francisco is the spot. Quiet days and incredible nights will be on the menu every day. San Francisco is known as a culinary paradise and you will barely walk a block without smelling the scent from one of the local restaurants permeating the air.
Of course, if you are in California, the beach is a must. While there are quite a few destinations from which to choose, Coronado Beach in San Diego is absolutely gorgeous. The beach is just a short trip from center city San Diego and rentals are available beachfront. Once on the beach, you can choose to plop down and soak up the sun, play volleyball, swim, surf, or rent a boat and do some sailing.
Beginning surfers would be wise to check out Cowell’s Beach in Santa Cruz. While there will be lots of locals in the water, they do not mark their territory as locals do on other beaches. In fact, if you are out there for the first time, you just might find a few locals willing to help you get up on that board. The waves here are nice, but small and manageable. Perfect for the first timer or beginner.
We would be remiss without mentioning the wine vacations available in California. You simply cannot go wrong on any wine tour in this state. California wines have come quite a ways over the last few decades and are now considered some of the most premier wines in the world. The unique weather conditions in California enable wine growers to replicate just about any condition around the world. Other countries may have discovered these wines, but California has perfected it!
Where to Eat on Your California Vacation
After spending those days running around, you are going to need a good meal to fill up that belly and get ready for the next day’s activities. Since you are on vacation, you should splurge a bit and take advantage of everything that all of the local California vacation spots offer the culinary world. Whether you take one of these recommendations or stop a local on the street, you are sure to find a great meal in Cali!
Italian food lovers must stop at La Spiga in Palm Desert. The restaurant is designed to replicate a Tuscan villa and offers both inside and outside dining. Unlike many restaurants these days, La Spiga makes everything from scratch and offers true home-style cooking in a fine dining setting. The wine list is incredible and you will be amazed at how your taste buds react to the food.
If you are a fan of Hell’s Kitchen or Kitchen Nightmares, your California vacation offers the opportunity to taste Chef Ramsey’s cooking first hand. The London in West Hollywood is one of his latest ventures and offers a menu that will literally have you drooling as you read over the selections. The prices are a bit high, but not what you would expect. A three-course meal is offered for $68, and a five-course meal is priced at $82.
Where to Stay on Your California Vacation
Yes, there are plenty of high-end hotels in the California area, but the best bet for anyone is vacation rental homes in California. Simply put, you will save a ton of money and paying $200-$400 a night for a room is foolish. Furthermore, if you are able to get a small group together, you can end up paying less than $100 a night for top end vacation rental homes in California. In addition, you can have the luxury of saving some money by making your own meals when the mood strikes. Invite some friends or other families and the money you save on your lodging will enable you to have the best California vacation possible!