Month: January 2025

Yosemite Valley

The breathtaking Yosemite Valley is a natural wonder situated in Yosemite National Park (and not that far from Lake Tahoe). This glacial valley is nearly 7.5 miles long and between 3000 and 3500 feet deep. Rock climbers from all over the world praise this place. It’s framed by plunging waterfalls and surrounded by granite summits. Don’t-Miss spots include Bridalveil Falls, El Capitan, Half Dome, Mirror Lake, Tunnel View, Vernal Falls, and Yosemite Falls.

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Channel Islands National Park

The Channel Islands National Parks is reportedly the least visited national park in the country. It could simply be because it’s quite remote. It’s 70 miles north of L.A. or an80-minute ferry ride out of Ventura Harbor.

Highlights include beautiful beaches, kayaking, canyons and valleys for hiking, and striking cliff faces. You can explore sea caves on Santa Cruz Island. You can also go snorkeling through the verdant kelp forest and share a bag lunch with tiny island foxes.

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Zabriskie Point

Ensconced in Death Valley National Park, this spot alone makes the drive through the park worthwhile. Gaze in wonder at the sand dunes rippled with chocolate, mauve, pink, white, and yellow. See the purple sandy river, the salt flats in the valley, and the majestic Panamint Mountains in the background. The colors and textures are surprisingly impressive and the spot is said by some to be simply breathtaking at sunrise and sunset.

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Venice Beach

Not all travelers take to Venice Beach. Venice Beach makes the list because it’s iconic. It has its own eclectic ambiance and yet is so representative of Southern California. This is an excellent place for people watching. Take in the sights and sounds of the artists, basketball players, buskers, gymnasts, health nuts and skateboarders. Stroll the boardwalk with its colorful murals, shops, and assorted eateries. You can even ride bicycles along the beachfront from Venice to Santa Monica.

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Laguna Beach

This small coastal city is halfway between San Diego and L.A. Veteran visitors say it’s a bit more “upmarket than nearby Huntington Beach.” It is well-known for its numerous coves, art galleries, boardwalk, tide pools, and beaches. Other than the main beach, the best ones are Victoria Beach, 1,000 Steps Beach, and (at sunset) Table Rock Beach. Need more? There are also over 20,000 acres of protected wilderness and other outdoor activities available as well.

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Disneyland

If you have kids, then a visit to Disneyland in Anaheim is truly a “must-do.” Face it, the original Disneyland is not only on the bucket list of every kid but also on that of many adults as well. Hey, it is the “happiest place on earth”, right? Kids especially enjoy meeting the Disney characters, watching the big parades, riding the rides, and sampling the Disney specialty treats. There’s always a new attraction or special theme event as well.

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Griffith Park

If you’re into nature and want a break from the urban congestion, Griffith Park is one of the country’s biggest urban wilderness municipal parks. It’s only 20 minutes northwest of downtown and features deep canyons, pony rides, and several hiking trails. The four-mile loop hike to the Mt. Hollywood Summit, offers super views of the Hollywood sign, the Hollywood Hills, Downtown LA, and the park. Visit the Griffith Observatory too which offers public telescopes and stargazing parties too.

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La Jolla

Situated north of San Diego is the La Jolla. It’s a charming beachside community. The mile-long beach, La Jolla Shores is family-friendly. There’s also La Jolla Cove.

LJC is a little beach ensconced between stunning sandstone cliffs. It’s a great place for snorkeling and diving. Nearby are the local sea lions snoozing on the rocks. Visit the La Jolla Caves. Explore them or pause on the point and see the view of the cave-ridden coastline.

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Cholla Cactus Garden

Situated on the Pinto Basin Drive, the Cholla Cactus Garden is said by some to be “one of the most incredible” attractions in famous Joshua Tree National Park. Complete with the mountains in the background, this field of literally thousands of cholla cactus is beautiful. There’s a special boardwalk and pedestrian path winding through the garden but don’t stray off the path. There’s a reason why they’re called “jumping cactus.”

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Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach is one of the South Bay beaches that’s not very far from LAX. It’s one of the beach towns that provides people with a real local vibe and feel of community too. It’s nowhere near as touristy as Santa Monica either.

Wander the Manhattan Beach streets and enjoy the boutique stores and local eateries and take in the genuine beach town atmosphere. Explore the beach promenade between popular Manhattan Pier and old Hermosa Pier. The sunsets at Manhattan Beach are reported to be stunning. Don’t forget to sample a tasty sundowner at one of the beer gardens along the promenade either!

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