Oh California, you sweet state you. Every year when it comes to choosing a destination for the Spring, the hard part is actually choosing where to go. California has some GREAT options.
For those in the Midwest or out East, California has plenty of options for that much needed warm getaway. For those that reside in this gem of a state, there’s also fun locations easily accessible to enjoy in the weeks ahead:
Palm Springs:
Whenever I think of Spring Break, there’s one town that ALWAYS comes to mind: Palm Springs. Hotels with pools upon pools to lounge around, cocktails to enjoy, and soaking in the sun. That is my idea of a good time.
BUT Palm Springs has other options too: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for an unforgettable view, and many GREAT trails to hike upon. Rent bikes for the day, enjoy VillageFest every Thursday evening, or take in a museum.
San Diego:
I never tire of seeing photos of San Diego. The Southern City of California has so much to offer. With many people’s favorite zoo: The San Diego Zoo, or the many museums along Balboa Park to taking in the Ships along the waterways, to one of the best hotels out there at Hotel del Coronado there’s always something to explore in this fun, beloved city.
Los Angeles:
I spent a good 3 years down in LA, and the majority of those years were exploring new spots to frequent. I’d ALWAYS run across something to do, and often times, people forget how much fun a staycation in your own city can be.
Los Angeles has plenty of museums: The Getty, LACMA, Griffith Observatory, MOCA, and more. The Los Angeles Zoo, Santa Monica 3rd Street Promenade, 3rd Street Farmer’s Market and more. And lets not forget the miles and miles of FLAT beaches surrounding the coasts of LA.
Catalina Island:
Who knew taking yourself 22 miles away from the streets of Los Angeles could offer so much tranquility? But, oh, can it especially when it’s on its own island. Catalina Island offers quiet, tranquility, and adventure all at the same time.
The island truly caters to both romantics and families offering the best of both worlds. Get out snorkeling or diving, or take in a tour right on the island. Or enjoy your time on a vacation rental property to feel as if you own a piece of the island for a few days.
Get an ice cream treat off the boardwalk, or take in the sun, or rent bikes or a golf cart to go exploring. The adventure is up to you in what you want to do.
Santa Barbara:
When I was in Los Angeles, this is a place I wish I would have spent more weekends at. Just a short 2 hour drive North of the city, Santa Barbara is always a fun getaway. With so many of the streets walker friendly, small shops and wine tasting rooms to explore, it’s a fun place for vacation.
Monterey Peninsula:
Monterey is seriously one of my favorite California destinations. My first part is the first glimpse of the peninsula when I’m driving towards Monterey off the 152. That view gets me every time. With Monterey having so many different tours to choose from such as Behind the Scenes at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Whale Watch Cruises, to Eco-tours along a bird estuarary, there’s something for the entire family.
A destination that gets you outdoors and near the water. Spend a day at the beach, go hiking along Point Lobos, or just enjoy walking along Fisherman’s Wharf. Monterey will always create family memories.
Santa Cruz:
The boardwalk that is full of rides right along the beach MAKES for the perfect destination for the entire family. A fun easy getaway for anyone within the Bay Area, or even those along the Central coast. Spend the day at the beach then end the night playing games and enjoying the rides. Guaranteed for lots of fun and laughs.
San Francisco:
San Francisco is ALWAYS a fun city to visit for a few days. Just leave the car at home. Jump on a Cable Car, enjoy walking along Fisherman’s Wharf, or take in the outdoors at the Golden Gate Park, or a few museums while you’re there too.
But one of the best parts of San Francisco is just people watching. You just may never know what you’ll run into.
Mendocino:
If you’re looking for something a little more quiet, heading a bit further north to the Mendocino Coast is highly recommended. Get out of the city, and just enjoy the much quieter life off the Pacific coast. Scenic views, small town love, with exquisite meals. This little piece of heaven is always a favorite getaway for me.
Lake Tahoe:
California is also home to one of the prettiest lakes I’ve ever seen. Although nothing compares to seeing a Great Lake in person! Lake Tahoe is such a pretty recreational area to explore. Whether you want to gamble at the casinos at South Lake Tahoe, or take in a few hikes for epic views of this beauty of a lake, or get out on a boat, this is always a perfect getaway location.
Yosemite/Sierra Nevadas:
Anyone that has a deep love of camping, the outdoors, or just Nature, in general needs to get out to Yosemite or the Sierra Nevadas to let go of the stress of life, and let Nature show you a good time. California is home to some incredible National Parks that are just waiting to be explored.
In all seriousness, are you headed anywhere for Spring Break this year? If so, where? Have any Vacation memories of the past?