California is a fantastic place to visit, stretching along the coast of the North Pacific and inland to the mountains. With such varied landscapes within this great state, there is a wealth of activities and sights for the whole family to enjoy. From adventure to relaxation, your vacation will be talked about for years, and have you planning to return as soon as possible.
Camping
Getting out into the wilderness is a quintessential part of Californian life, and visitors should make sure to do as the locals do too. There is a wealth of excellent camping options all across the state, with sites suitable for any needs, be it a hiking trip with friends or a romantic glamping trip. Should you not be able to bring camping equipment with you, there are plenty of places that rent equipment. The benefit of this is that you can allow spontaneity while on a limited luggage allowance. You can also take an RV to the wild and let your family have a glamping trip. Check out Bill Eads RV and similar dealers to see options they have.
Beaches
Ocean swimming and surfing are a must when in California, with some of the best beaches in Southern California. With the climate being warm all year round, the beaches in the south are perfect for swimming and other water sports at any time. Places like 1000 Steps Beach and Laguna Beach offer water sports that range from snorkeling to windsurfing lessons. You’ll make breathtaking memories getting up close to local wildlife in their habitat.
There is plenty to see and do when you get sick of being in the water in the seaside towns. Many places have beachside amusements where the kids (young and old) can overeat cotton candy and earn prizes from games. Otherwise, there are many art galleries, parks, and restaurants serving a variety of delicious food.
Wildlife Watching
Regardless of where you end up in California, you’re sure to be not far from incredible wildlife. Along the coast, you’ll find seals and sealions in many locations, and in winter, you can go whale watching from Zuma Beach, Malibu. With the abundance of National parks and countryside, there is ample fishing and the possibility of seeing bears. Creatures in their own habitats is undeniably the best way to see them.
Adventure Sports
If inland adventure is what you want for your vacation California has many world-class national parks, with Yosemite probably the most well-known. In Yosemite, you can find something to do all year round, with a variety of accommodation available to give you the perfect base. Climbing ranges from beginner-level routes right through to some of the most challenging routes in the world. Some areas of the national park remain open year-round, meaning with appropriate planning, you will have snowy fun on your vacation to the area.
Disneyland
If you prefer your adventure with less wilderness and more magic, Disneyland Park in Anaheim is the obvious place to add to your plans. Here you can hobnob with your favorite Disney characters, ride roller coasters and enjoy spectacular firework displays. With the park divided into different themed areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy at The Happiest Place On Earth. There is so much packed into Disneyland that you can spend your whole vacation here and not experience it all.
The beauty of Disneyland is that you can choose to stay in one of the hotels at the Disney complex and fully immerse yourself. Or if you don’t want 24/7 Disney, you’ll find plenty of accommodation not too far away and just come to the park for the day. If you’re only spending a day or two, plan ahead what areas of the park you want to visit and head straight there on arrival. Better to do the things you’re most excited about than try to see everything and end up seeing nothing.
Los Angeles
Just up the road from Orange County, you’ll find the city of Los Angeles (LA), home to movie stars, hot shopping, and stunning culture. Universal Studios California and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter are your go-to places for your fill of movie magic. You don’t need to spend to appreciate just being on the world-famous Rodeo Drive, but you will surely find something special to buy. For a change of pace, check out the La Brea Tar Pits and see well-preserved fossils of ancient animals.
Hollywood
No trip to LA would be complete without visiting Hollywood, home of the American movie industry. Even if you aren’t a movie buff, hiking up to see the Hollywood sign with its stunning views out over LA is well worth your time. Take a tour to see where some of your favorite movies and TV shows were filmed, along with other notable sights around the city. Not to be missed is the Hollywood walk of fame along Hollywood Boulevard; if you time it right, you can even catch a Walk of Fame star ceremony.
Wine Country
If you’re on an adult’s vacay, consider hitting a few of the wineries for wine tasting and top dining. Californian wine is world-renowned, with perfect growing conditions for grapes found in the rocky hills to the north. Although several varieties are produced in the area, the two most well-known are Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. This balance of red and white production allows fans of either type to enjoy a tasting tour through the vine-covered hills.
San Francisco
To the north, you’ll find San Francisco, the Art Deco capital of the world. Not only is San Francisco famed for its architecture, but also its diverse population and rich history. There are many museums and galleries that the whole family can immerse themselves in. Get out of the city with a hike in the Golden Gate Park, where you’ll find incredible vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge.
With so much to see and do in California, every family member will find something they have to do when visiting. By coming to this great state for your next vacation, you’ll be making memories to last the rest of your life.
