If you were to choose one place where you could ski, tan on beautiful beaches, visit amusement parks and hike through dense forests, where would you go? For those activities and many more I always choose California. This diverse state offers it all, from stunning landscapes, wine tasting and animal encounters to five-star dining and world class shopping. It’s impossible to experience it all at once but there are definitely some spots you cannot miss if you visit California for the first time in your life.
Excellent surfing, countless beaches and cozy oceanfront California vacation rentals dot the west of coast of America making it an ideal place for relaxation. California’s Bay Area is one of the most unique places in the world. It’s here you will find such cities as San Francisco, Santa Cruz and Oakland Napa among many others. If you are fond of surfing, do not miss Santa Cruz. In the “Surf City” you will learn all about this sport visiting Santa Cruz Surfing Museums which displays collections that date back to the earliest years of surfing. You can also get tickets for an annual Shakespeare festival that takes place in unique outdoor settings among the redwoods. With an average of 300 sunny days a year, Santa Cruz is one of the best spots for nearly every type of outdoor activity. Kayaking, kite boarding and of course the best surfing in the state are awaiting you.
While visiting California’s Bay Area, it’s impossible to miss San Francisco. This enchanting city offers a variety of attractions that range from the famous Golden Gate Bridge to cable cars and Alcatraz Island. Only here you will find crooked streets, distinctive
neighborhoods and experience blue skies every single day. Stop by the Fisherman’s Warf for some fresh seafood and visit the Pier 39 to get some souvenirs for your friends. If you want to shop more you should head to the Ghirardelli square. Some other must sees include the Union Square; the Lombard street – the famous crookest street of San Francisco and the Coit tower which offers panoramic views of the city from the top of Telegraph Hill.
If you are tired of sightseeing and crowded attractions, you can take a day trip to Napa located 50 miles north of San Francisco. With miles of green countryside, Napa is full of peaceful country roads, amazing scenery, wineries and cozy California lodgings. You can learn all about winemaking process during one of the many wine tasting tours offered in the area.
Heading south of San Francisco and Napa you will arrive to the famous city of angels. Los Angeles will surprise you with its variety of things to do ranging from amusement parks and shopping districts to beaches and live entertainment. If you like theme parks in Los Angeles you will find Six Flags Magic Mountain, Universal Studios, Disneyland and Wild Animal Park among many others. You can also head to the beach and enjoy surfing just like seen on TV. Beautiful beaches, beautiful people and handsome bodyguards are all part of LA beach experience. You should visit Venice Beach which is full of street performers, culture and arts.
Continuing your journey south you have to stop in San Diego for a while. Beaches here are simply a way of life in San Diego and define its daily activities. You should take a walk along the shores of Mission Beach or enjoy a scenic drive while witnessing most spectacular sunsets. While in the city, do not forget to visit the Gaslamp Quarter. It’s a historic site at downtown San Diego which features beautiful turn-of-the-century Victorian architecture, numerous boutiques and art galleries. For more fun you can always visit Sea World San Diego, the world famous San Diego Zoo, Legoland California and the Wild Animal Park. While in San Diego you will find countless California beach rentals to stay at.
Besides beautiful coast, bustling cities and fun attractions, California also offers some of the best skiing in the country. If you happen to visit this state in the winter, a visit to South Lake Tahoe is a must. You will have several options as far as ski resorts. You can book a cozy California lodging near Kirkwood or the Sierra at Tahoe Resort to enjoy adventurous winter sports including snowmobiling, dog sledding, cross country skiing and many more. During the summer there’s plenty to do in this lovely region as well. There is camping, golfing and fishing to name just a few. Don’t forget to visit the DL Bliss State Park and South Lake Tahoe’s Tallac Historic Site to have a glimpse of lifestyles during 1920’s.
Whether it’s relaxing Napa, bustling San Francisco or picturesque South Lake Tahoe, California always offers an unforgettable time in the best style.