Fun things to do on the coast of Northern and Southern California. Discover shipwrecks, butterfly groves, hot springs, lesser-known theme parks, beaches you can drive on, and much more.
California has hot springs scattered about the state, but if you are traveling the California Coast then your options are limited. The central coast between Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area has a bunch to choose from, but they are quite diverse. See the map above and the descriptions below. Few of these […]
California has 21 historic Spanish missions from San Diego to Sonoma in the northern San Francisco Bay Area. Most were built during the late 1700’s, with the two northernmost being completed in the early 1800’s. These stunning sacred structures are the state’s oldest buildings. All of these California missions are now state historic monuments that […]
California beaches attract more than just year-round tourists — they are also a common destination for many migrating birds and birding enthusiasts. Some species make the California coast their final stop; others rest here for a day or two before continuing on. Fall and spring offer opportunities to see birds passing through on their way […]
California has a long north-south coastline with an unmatched diversity of beaches and shorelines. Along this stunning coast are many large rocks, prominent points, islands, and other shipping hazards. Over the years lighthouses have been installed in locations where shipwrecks have occurred or were feared. These majestic lighthouses and light stations have become some of California’s most photographed […]
As another year comes to a close, it’s time to start making resolutions… and hopefully, that includes some travel-related goals. If the California coast is on your list this year, check out these must-see attractions and beachside towns. The more of these places you can see, the better. Hearst Castle Hearst Castle is a National […]
Kids aren’t the only ones who love building sandcastles at the beach. Many professional sandcastle artists compete at annual events that allow them to show off their skills and creative talents. Amateurs and newcomers are welcomed at many of these contests to join in and challenge the pros. Attending one of these events will blow your mind if […]
A beach bonfire is a time-honored tradition California residents and visitors have enjoyed for years. Despite a recent backlash from environmentalists, governments, and coastal property owners, bonfires are still permitted at many beaches in California. See the complete list below. Typically, fires must be limited to official fire pits, which are formed by large cement […]
Sunbathing can get tedious, and surfing isn’t for everyone. But beach games are enjoyable for people of all ages and interests. So the next time you’re soaking up the sun on one of California’s beautiful beaches, try your hand at one of these popular beach games. Frisbee This classic beach game never gets old. But […]
Bixby Bridge – See the photographs below of the famous bridges. California has some of the most iconic bridges around. Today we take most of them for granted as we drive over them, but back when many were being constructed in the early 20th century they were changing the economic engine of California as the West […]
Monach butterflies are just lovely to see in person. They’re bright and colorful, with an easily recognizable orange, black and white pattern across their wings. Every year, from October through early March, these butterflies migrate to central & southern California, mostly coming in from areas west of the Rocky Mountains, and south from Oregon & […]
California has many historic fishing piers along its shoreline. For locals and tourists alike they are popular spots to rest at the end of the day and watch the sun go down. Sunset shots of California’s piers grace many websites, calendars, and computer desktop backgrounds. San Diego has some of the best piers in the […]
Are you spending your Fourth of July on the California Coast this year? If so, you’re lucky – there’s really no better place to be on America’s birthday than a sunny, sandy beach or a charming coastal community. We’ve rounded up some of your best options for Fourth of July fireworks displays in California’s beach […]
There are zoos and aquariums all along the California coast. From the world-famous San Diego Zoo in Southern California to a little-known zoo in Eureka, there are many family-friendly zoos of all sizes. One thing we have discovered in our travels throughout California is that zoos are diverse. They vary in the animals they specialize […]
Boating on the California Coast is a special experience. California is lucky to have an irregular coastline with large bays, harbors, river estuaries, and protected coves. Marinas along this shoreline offer services, moorage, and protection from storms for yachts and sailboats. If you are just passing through, call ahead to make sure they have temporary […]
Between the smell of burgers and hanging out with friends, you might think a barbecue couldn’t possibly get any better… but it can. Grab some ketchup, mustard and relish, and try heading down to one of San Diego’s beautiful beaches for your next grilling session. It’s a lot more scenic than cooking in your backyard, […]
When traveling on the California Coast a good way to get to know the city or neighborhood where you are staying is to visit the local farmers markets. We have scoured the web to find the best farmers markets near the coastal cities in Northern and Southern California. Almost all of these are certified farmers […]
Yes disc golf is a fun thing to do with friends and family, but did you know that it is a professional sport? Disc Golf has its own association – PDGA (Professional Disc Golf Association) – and serious players who wince at the sound of “Frisbee Golf.” Innova Discs and other golf disc manufacturers have taken […]
The sun’s out, the temp’s climbing to 80-90 degrees everyday, and we’re all dreaming of cooling off with some ice cream by the water. Luckily Southern California has plenty of opportunities for both. There’s not only sandy beaches along the coast but also a few swimming holes further inland where you can go for a […]
Catch a glimpse of Pacific Ocean habitats at these must-see California aquariums located on or near the coast. Some of the best aquariums in the United States are in California, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Aquarium of the Pacific located in Long Beach. Inside the Monterey Bay Aquarium Several of the aquariums are on […]
The beaches of LA County are some of the most beautiful in the country. From the bustling Venice Beach area to the beautiful Long Beach area, you’ll find charming communities and long, white stretches of sand. And while beach vacations can be expensive ventures, you’ll also find plenty of free activities. These LA County adventures won’t […]
