Category: West Coast Travel

West Coast Road Trip Along The Pacific Coast Highway

Many parents sit back and wonder what exactly they should be doing with their kids over spring and summer breaks. It is a lengthy amount of time to be spending in doors or staying local. One fun vacation is a road trip. If you live on the west coast you are in luck, there are so many sites to see and things to do with kids of all ages. There are also a plethera of adult only road trips to take. Speaking of adult only, how about the Portland Oregon pub crawl or a Napa Valley Winery tour?

Those seeking site seeing and excitement can take a trip up the Pacific Coast Highway. The PCH has an expansive 650 mile stretch where major cities like Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and San Francisco can all be seen. While on your road trip in San Francisco you can view such sites as the Golden Gate Bridge, you can take an architecture tour and ride a cable car. If you have plant of extra time take a trip out to Alcatraz. Back in the car and heading towards Santa Barbara you’ll enjoy splendid views of the Santa Ynez Mountains while taking in some upscale dining and shopping. If you are taking this Santa Barbara road trip with children the Lotusland botanical gardens would be a fun experience to share with them.

Los Angeles may be one of the most family friendly and exciting destinations on a west coast road trip. Children and adults alike can enjoy visiting the warner brothers studios, the TCL chinese theatre and the iconic hollywood sign. Many studios offer back stage tours and there is a wide variety of local dining from casual to elegant. With so many options for entertainment, a west coast road trip will not disappoint.

Choosing the Right Spot to Visit on the West Coast of America

A trip to the West Coast of America might be all you need to relax. The West Coast is characterized by all manner of scenery, thus causing a heavy burden on your shoulder when it comes to selecting the right spot for you to visit. On the West Coast, there is always something for everyone. Hence, money should never be a determining factor. Unlike the East Coast, the West Coast has magnificent beaches, better cuisines, historical sites, port lands, weather, sports culture, scenery, and the best people character wise. Thus, there is no doubt that the West Coast is a place worth your visit. With the above in mind, let me show you how to select the right spot on the West Coast for your vacation.

As much as a vacation is made interesting by the activities involved, you should always select your location by considering weather patterns in the area. People enjoy having a real time of a tropical type of climate that allows them to spend a lot of time outdoors, and it is my belief that you are no exception. Thus, the weather is of utmost importance, and it should dictate how you plan your visit to the West Coast.

Second on the list should be scenery. We all enjoy spending time in the natural environment, away from smog filled skies and towering skyscrapers. A vacation gives you the time to relax, unwind, and meet new people. Thus, as you plan to visit the West Coast, you should only select locations that will help make you appreciate yourself more at the end of the day. Go for places that offer energy intensive activities as well as those that encourage you to rest and relax.

As we move from one location to the next, one question keeps on ringing in our minds. Where will I sleep at day end! Since you are going to unknown territory, it is always important that you research on the best hotels and accommodation facilities on the West Coast, preferably those that are close to town and offer both accommodation and full course meals. By taking the above three steps, you rest assured of having a great time on the West Coast.

The Perfect Brewery For Your Summer Trip In San Diego

San Diego has always been on the list of prime vacation destinations on the west coast. Numerous people flock there every year to get a taste of what this beautiful city has to offer. The summer time especially sees a lot of visitors, so naturally, the list of things to do in the city also goes up. The city has something for almost every age group so that no one is left out from the enjoyment and all the fun. One of the things that San Diego is primarily known for is the amazing breweries that it has. Even though it may seem like hard tasks to narrow down the city’s best, considering how close they are regarding quality, (which is extremely high by the way) we have found the one that is guaranteed to satisfy your brewery needs.

The brewery first opened its doors in 1989 and since then has seen lots of success. Karl Strauss Brewing Co. sees people coming to them from all around the globe, thanks to the incredible beers that are brewed here. The place has an old rustic vibe to it, akin to something that would be straight out of a 1970’s movie. With some of the best beer in town, this place is a must visit for those who like a nice cold beer. The unique thing about this place is that the beer is not just served to you in a glass, it is also served to you in your dishes. A lot of the dishes that are served here use beer as one of their main ingredients.

The brewery also has special surprises for those visiting owing Comic Con that is happening in the near vicinity. The celebration goes on till the end of July, making it the perfect brewery to visit this summer.

Travelling to the West Coast? Here is Why You Should Pack Light

Summer is here which means temperatures are high and sweaty. Nevertheless, this should not stop your vacation to the West Coast of USA. If you are lucky, your destination may just have a mild warm temperature you can contend with.

The West Coast area is made up of three main states. These are Oregon, New York, and California. How hot you find your city depends on where it falls in the three states. Fortunately, only one of these states is considered to be the hottest in the summer while the other two remain cooler.

According to a forecast from the weather experts, there are 10 American cities that experience scorching temperatures during summer. We all expect cities like Houston to be on the top 5 of this list. Surprising enough, Houston came in at number 9 after New Orleans which was considered fairly warm. Florida is also on the list in case you want to take a trip to Disney Land during your summer travel itinerary.

On the top 5 of this list is a city found in the West Coast. This is New York city which ranked number one as the sweatiest of them all. Fortunately, New York city is also considered one of the top cities with central AC systems in homes and commercial establishments. So it might get a little heated up when you check in, but once you get to your hotel room, the holiday mood is back on.

Also on the list of sweatiest cities in America is Tampa and Florida. So you may actually be safe from the scorching weather if you are touring the states of Oregon and California. In fact, most tourists favor these two states for their West Coast on Holiday.

However, the rule of thumb applies for all American cities you travel to this summer. Pack light clothes, carry plenty of sunscreen, and remember to stay hydrated during your West Coast Holiday.

Making a Memorable but Cheap Trip to the US West Coast

The United States is one of the largest countries in the world with so many attractive destinations that it is impossible to fit them all in a travelling plan. Frequented by visitors throughout the year, the west coast is one of the most popular parts of the US. One of the main reasons for its adoration by visitors is its vibrant cities and different but breathtaking landscapes. While many people spend years piling up loads of money for their west coast trip, you can have a time of your life at an incredibly low cost.

Low-rates Accommodation

A big chunk of money spent on any trip goes to accommodation. There are many prestigious hotels in the west coast but you have to dig deep in your pockets to pay for their services. At the same time, there are many motels offering excellent services at a low price. Nevertheless, it is not easy to pick just the right one, and even harder to try not to find yourself in an outright dump if you have never tried them before.

A Short Distance from Attractions

According to Huffington Post, some of the little-known hotels offer as excellent service as some of the largest ones. They come with additional benefits including nearby restaurants and nightlife hubs as well as attractions, such as the Cabrillo National Monument, Crescent Bay, Salt Creek, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and art galleries. They include Ocean Park Hotel in San Francisco, Dolphin Motel in San Diego, Newport Channel Inn in Newport Beach, Three Rivers Resort in Forks and View Crest Lodge in Trinidad.

A trip to the US west coast is an unforgettable. However, it doesn’t have to leave a big hole in your pockets. You can easily avoid the crippling costs by conducting a bit of research on available accommodation before you set off. Additionally, make a list of the cities and attractions you would love to visit most.

D23 Expo Highlights Plans for Disney Parks

Die-hard Disney fans gathered at the Anaheim Convention Center this month to experience the D23 Expo, a biennial event presented by the Disney-run D23 fan club. The 23 in D23 stands for the year Walt Disney first arrived in Hollywood, and will be hallmarked by 23 different unique developments throughout the theme parks nationwide. These new additions will celebrate popular Disney culture, and focuses exclusively on the company’s film, television shows, parks and other properties. This indicates a huge growth period for the popular entertainment empire.

New lands will be created, one of which is based on the legendary Star Wars franchise. Slated to open in 2019 in the California and Florida parks, ‘Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge’ will be a highly-immersive, sci-fi haven where visitors can eat at the Cantina, interact with characters, tour the starships, and get their geek on bigtime. A hotel based on the Star Wars theme is also planned.

Other events in the works include the upcoming Disney 50th Anniversary in 2021. Expect new rides and features to be unveiled in nearly every park during this blowout celebration. Epcot, originally built in 1982, is slated to get a total revamp due to wear and aging. Created as more of an education-based entertainment, imagineers will continue interjecting more whimsy and fun. One example is the plan for a Ratatouille ride in the France pavilion of Epcot. Riders will experience 4D imagery and be ‘shrunk down’ to the size of a rat on this exciting adventure.

New Disney Vacation Club hotels and resorts are planned, such as the Disney Riviera Resort, which will be positioned near Epcot. Various themed restaurants will complement many of the new land areas, like the out-of-this-world spot near the Mission: Space area, and Uber-like vans, ‘Minnie Vans’, will offer door-to-door transportation for guests.

The Best Traveling Destinations of the West Coast of the United States

The far west coast of the United States is full of great destinations for tourists from other countries and Americans from others states alike. With fabulous beaches, places with snow and places with beauties that are ranked among the most outstanding touristic destinations in the world. The U.S. is truly a great place to live but also an excellent place to travel to, if you know how to look.

San Francisco, for example, is a beautiful place to visit with great environmental areas like the Napa Valley which is also a fantastic place for wine lovers, as many influential wine brands are produced in the Napa Valley.

There’s also Monterey to visit and Carmel near the ocean, great places for those who want to find some peace and rest a little during their traveling across the U.S.

Why leave California out? One of the most significant states of the West side of the U.S., with Oregon and Los Angeles in a fantastic highway for those who live to drive around the country.

Do not stop only to see the commercial centers of each city you visit during your trip to the west coast of the United States. Make sure to visit the borders of the nation, where fabulous beaches, coasts, and the flora of California which is ranked among the most beautiful ones you can experience.

San Diego is obviously a fan favorite from most of the tourists who move there. There is so much to do in San Diego for night owls and nature lovers alike. San Diego is understandably the preferable destination for the western part of the country.

Of course, definitely, last but not least, the west side of the United States has the presence of Las Vegas, where you can meet the famous casinos of the city, the magnificent desert around the tall buildings and some of the most memorable places in Hollywood movies.

Visit The Beautiful Beach of California

California is known for its breathtaking beaches with crystal blue water and sandy beaches. When tourists visit this state they are many different beaches to choose from to visit depending on what part of the California you are staying in.

Wildcat Beach is located in Marni California. It does not have many services but the view is breathtaking once you arrive. The beach has a the Wildcat campground nearby and hiking, boating, swimming and fishing. Others activities are backpacking and mountain biking. Wildcat Beach has 2.5 miles of beach. To get to his beach you have to hike about 5 miles.

Shelter Cove is known for its black sandy beach. It is in a secluded location and known for its peaceful fishing community. It is accessible only by boat or plane and has 3.5 miles of beach and coral reefs.

Catalina Island in Los Angles is the home to many different beaches. The Avalon beaches are located outside the city and within walking distance from hotels and restaurants. Most of these beaches have swimming and sunbathing and nearby restrooms.

Descanso Beach has many activities for tourists. Admission is $2 and the water is crystal clear. Activities offered are swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking. There are restrooms, cabana and umbrella rentals. There is an open air restaurant at the Descanso Beach Club that serves sandwiches, salads, wine and beer.

Other beaches to visit in Catalina are South Beach, Middle Beach and Step Beach and Two Harbour Beaches. There are many striking beaches in California with distinctive features.

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California Beaches Are The Most Scenic in The US

Visit some of the most scenic beaches in California. These beaches are Wildcat Beach, Catlina Island Beaches and Shelter Cove.

California Hotel Offers Travel Deal

2017 is the 50th anniversary of the famous “Summer of Love” that so many songs have been written about. California’s Graduate Berkeley hotel is offering a great travel deal to those people who are feeling a little nostalgic. They are currently offering one room for two people for a very reasonable $289 for each night. Included in this price is a pair of tickets for the Bay Area Rapid Transit that will take you and a guest to the scenic city of San Francisco and back to the hotel. You will be able to enjoy “The Summer of Love Experience” exhibit that is currently at the DeYoung Museum. Also included is dinner for two at the restaurant in the hotel called Henry’s. This terrific deal will be available until August 19th.

The Graduate Berkeley hotel was recently renovated and now features 144 rooms. Going to the Bay Area is a terrific destination for any occasion. This travel deal is perfect for couples who have always wanted to visit San Francisco and have been looking for the right time. It is also a great opportunity for couples who are just trying to find the right place to have a weekend getaway in a location with beautiful scenery. There are a wide variety of festivities that are planned around the Bay Area to commemorate the “Summer of Love.” Couples who are planning to take advantage of this offer would be wise to do some research prior to their trip. Go online and find out exactly when and where certain events are occurring.

People who will be coming to San Francisco to experience the “Summer of Love” 50th anniversary celebration should seriously think about buying tickets to events in advance. Some of the events that are planned in the city throughout the summer will have limited ticket availability on the day of the performance. Therefore, buy tickets to all of the events you will be attending prior to your trip.

History Huge in a West Coast Trip

If you decide to head toward the west coast of the United States for a vacation, everyone knows about the beautiful beaches, the fantastic cities, and sweeping vistas. But there is also a great deal of history to see in the American West as well, and it should be a part of any great, west coast road trip.

 

The first sites to think about visiting are the national parks and monuments. Many of them have historical significance themselves. The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park and Museum is a great place if you are headed for Central California, or the John Muir National Historic Site close by as well. If you want to check out Southern California, visit the Cabrillo National Monument, which marks the landing of the first Spanish ship in San Diego Bay. In Northern California, you must see the Redwood National Park. Its historical importance lies in its very existence, as does that of Yosemite in the south, the first national park ever created.

 

If you are headed for the Pacific Northwest, they have plenty of history as well. The Lewis and Clark National Historical Park commemorates one of the most important moments in western exploration. More toward the interior, there is the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, which examines the pioneer history of one of the United States’ key lines of expansion. In Washington, there are places near Seattle like Fort Warden and the Klondike Gold Rush museum, which examines the history of Seattle’s role in that historical event.

 

One fascinating approach was taken by this reporter from the LA Times. He followed the steps of Mark Twain through Reno and further, chronicling the journey of the great American author on his own seven year tour of the west coast. One brilliant part of the Twain journey is that it follows near so many of the other great historical places on the western coast of the United States. You can do mulitple trips at once.