Hilly San Francisco lies at the northern end of the namesake peninsula, on the West Coast of the United States, and includes several gorgeous islands. Home to some of the most iconic buildings and best restaurants in the world, a variety of incredible art galleries and museums, and several enthralling natural areas close by, the city sits high on many travellers’ bucket lists. Must-sees include the city’s fun cable cars, jaw-dropping Golden Gate Bridge, with its spectacular views of the city on one side and nature on the other; historic (and creepy) Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary; and the unique wonderland of Chinatown. From the popular Fisherman’s Wharf, take a boat tour, explore the weird exhibits at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, or simply soak in the photogenic views over the harbour.
Set amidst densely forested landscapes, Groveland, previously part of Groveland-Big Oak Flat, is a small but charming census-designated place in the Tuolumne County of California. Travellers to this quaint destination can meander along its scenic streets, sample the delicious local cuisine, and admire the gold rush-era buildings. A major drawcard of Groveland includes the Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum, a wonderfully informative space that tells the story of the local Native American’s and pioneers who settled in the area. This lovely little hamlet is the ideal base for enjoying the excellent hiking, climbing, cycling and trekking opportunities of the awe-inspiring Yosemite National Park and the enchanting Stanislaus National Forest.
When the wind picks up and the fog settles on the small beach town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, in Monterey County, California, locals and holidaymakers alike travel along the scenic Carmel Valley Road which leads through a perpetually sunny valley to the charming country village of Carmel Valley. The Santa Lucia Mountains provide this quiet little tourist town with a sublime backdrop for enjoying the many recreational activities on offer. Eat farm fresh food at the numerous tempting restaurants; browse the many art galleries, antique shops and vintage boutiques; or sample local delicious local wine at the various wine tasting rooms. Those looking for outdoor activities will be equally well catered for with a number of championship golf courses in the area as well as some excellent hiking, biking and horse riding opportunities in the nearby Garland Ranch Regional Park.
With its year-round Mediterranean-like climate, its extraordinary stretch of rugged coastline and its idyllic setting between the steeply rising Santa Ynez Mountains and the magnificent Pacific Ocean, it’s not hard to understand why Santa Barbara is widely considered to be the ‘The American Riviera’. While the city lies less than 100 miles from the vast metropolis of Los Angeles, it differs greatly from its massive neighbour to the south. Its broad pristine beaches, renowned wineries, and its relaxed atmosphere afford residents and visitors the kind of laidback lifestyle one would expect from a small coastal town combined with the shopping experiences, dining opportunities and all the amenities of a large city. Don’t miss the Spanish Mission Church, El Presidio State Historic Park, Butterfly Beach and Santa Ynez wine tasting.
Santa Monica’s pleasant Mediterranean-like climate and its dramatic setting on a cliffside overlooking its famed stretch of golden sand beach, make it the perfect place to experience a taste of the glamour of LA at its most relaxed. This coastal paradise boasts some excellent shopping haunts, world-class restaurants, and, thanks to the amusement park on its historical Pier, a round-the-clock atmosphere of vibrant festivity. The city bustles during the day and positively heaves at night. Visitors are spoiled for choice with a wide range of evening entertainment options on offer. From the laid back outdoor cafes, cocktails on the beach, sophisticated hotel lounges, heaving dance clubs, and live music hotspots, there really is never a dull moment in this city by the sea.
Located in Southern California's Orange County, Laguna Beach is a peaceful seaside resort known for its vibrant art scene and exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities. Its idyllic year-round climate, picturesque coves, sandy beaches with spectacular surf and skimboarding conditions, and budding art community make it one of California's premier destinations. Visitors should be sure to explore the natural seashore and wilderness areas of Crystal Cove State Park, the picturesque Heisler Park, which offers a number of paved paths and picnic areas, and the Laguna Art Museum, California's oldest museum impressively located just 100 meters from the ocean.
