Since the gold rush of the 1840s, people have been traveling to California to discover its beauty and excitement. From the towering Sierra Nevada mountains and towering redwood forests to the vast desert and rugged coastline, California offers a wide range of breathtaking views as it stretches 1,100 miles up the west coast. As diverse as the landscape, the opportunities for exploration are endless on your next vacation to the Golden State.
San Francisco, home to the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf and the famous Alcatraz Island, offers attractive attractions, a diverse culture and picturesque views of the bay from the steep hills. Make exploring the city more exciting by taking a cable car through Chinatown. With street festivals throughout the year and fantastic shopping in the various neighborhoods, there are many opportunities to experience the culture of the city. At the end of the day, rest your feet and dine at one of several delicious world-class restaurants.
If you’re heading to Southern California, don’t let the sprawling city of Los Angeles turn you away. This diverse city has entertainment for everyone. Visit Hollywood and find your favorite actor on the walk of fame, venture to Mann’s Chinese Theater to place your hands and feet where celebrities once were, and shop like the stars on Rodeo Drive. The Getty is a must-see for museum lovers with its architecture, western art collection, and magnificent garden.
When visiting the Los Angeles area, most vacationers think of Disney. Spring and summer mark the perfect times to escape the allure of Disneyland in Anaheim. Kids and adults alike are sure to enjoy this fantasy land while hanging out with Mickey, Cinderella, Tarzan and their friends. If you are staying in Anaheim, be sure to take the free shuttle bus to Universal Studios Hollywood. Take a tour of the studio and find out how your favorite show was created or take a wild and wet raft ride in Jurassic Park.
A short drive south of Anaheim will take you to San Diego, where a must-see is the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Escape the heat of the day and enjoy the zoo’s special summer hours that run until 8:00 pm. Visit polar bears, elephants, zebras, tigers and learn new fun facts. When you’re hungry, be sure to enjoy fresh, local seafood. And while you’re in San Diego, don’t forget to visit SeaWorld or the Museum of Contemporary Art.
If your idea of the perfect vacation isn’t the hustle and bustle of city life, escape to one of nature’s many outdoor offerings. Yosemite National Park, known as Crown Jewel, is located in central California in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Nature enthusiasts can explore several hiking trails that lead to Yosemite Falls, climb rocks on the towering granite walls of Toulumne Meadow, or take an outdoor guided tour of Yosemite Valley.
The California coast offers a breathtaking vacation getaway. Highway One, which runs 90 miles from Cambria to Carmel, offers beautiful views of the rocky shoreline. Be sure to visit one of the famous beaches such as Venice, Huntington, Laguna, and Manhattan, where you can sunbathe along the California coast and participate in activities such as surfing, fishing, swimming, and biking.
California’s wine country is every wine lover’s dream. Even the naive will enjoy sampling and touring the more than 200 wineries in Napa Valley. In addition, there are several spas in the area where you can relax with a mineral water bath, a mud bath or a rejuvenating massage.
While the Southern California desert may not seem like an ideal vacation destination, the unique landscape of towering mountain tops and low valleys draws numerous visitors here in the winter. Hiking is always the best way to see the stunning terrain, but driving tours are also available for those who cannot make the trip. Spring brings cacti and colorful poppy flowers to bloom and paints the desert landscape orange and yellow.
As the largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe offers year-round activities and relaxation. Its deep, crystal clear waters and the surrounding snow-capped mountains provide the perfect playground for everyone. Enjoy boating and swimming in the summer and be sure to hit the slopes in the winter at Heavenly Mountain Resort. Plus, golfers are sure to want to take advantage of the challenging and scenic courses of the Lake Tahoe Basin.
Whether your dream vacation is experiencing California’s great cities, discovering the vast landscape, or enjoying tranquility and relaxation, finding the perfect accommodations for your vacation is important. No matter which part of California you visit, there are numerous lodging options to choose from. A California vacation rental is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to escape crowded hotels and stay in a relaxing environment close to family and friends. With all the comforts of home at your fingertips, you can have an unforgettable vacation both inside and outside of your vacation rental accommodation.
