Attractions

Fig tree

Category: Famous Tree
Santa Barbara, California, United States
Chapala Street, Santa Barbara, CA US

The Moreton Bay fig tree, over 130 years old, is a fixture in Santa Barbara and is believed to be the largest fig tree in the world of its species. It was reportedly planted by a young girl in 1876 who received a gift of a seed from an Australian sailor. The tree spans over 160 feet and can supposedly provide shade for up to 16,000 people.

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Squaw Valley

Category: Ski Mountain
Truckee, California, United States
Highway 89, Truckee, CA US

Squaw Valley is a world class ski resort, and probably offers the best skiing in all of Lake Tahoe. Opened for business in 1949, Squaw gained it biggest notoriety after hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics. Squaw became popular among Hollywood stars like Sophia Loren and Big Crosby.

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North Coast Brewery

Category: Brewery
Fort Bragg, California, United States
455 N Main St, Fort Bragg, CA 95437 US
www.northcoastbrewing.com

A pioneer in the craft beer movement, North Coast Brewery opened in 1988 as a local brewpub in the historic town of Fort Bragg. The brewery has won a number of competitions worldwide and has a wide selection of beers and ales. Visit the brewery and the museum, and then sit down for a Red Seal Ale, an Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout, or a Scrimshaw Pilsner in the taproom.

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Anderson Valley Brewing Company

Category: Brewery
California, United States
17700 Hwy 253 , Boonville, CA 95415 USA
www.avbc.com

Do you know how to make beer? For a tour of a real brewing facility, visit Anderson Valley Brewing Company. The brewery offers one tour a day, except on Tuesdays and holidays. Check out the brewery website for exact times and please note that closed footwear must be worn on the tour.

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Category: Botanical Garden
Fort Bragg, California, United States
18220 North Highway One , Fort Bragg, CA 95437 USA
www.gardenbythesea.org

Stretching from Highway One to the dramatic Pacific shore, Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is the only public garden in the continental United States directly on the ocean. Discover the manicured formal gardens, the dense coastal pine forest, fern-covered canyons, diverse plant collections, and flower-filled coastal bluffs overlooking the blue ocean. View winter and spring migrations of whales from the Cliff House.

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Point Cabrillo Light House

Category: Lighthouse
California, United States
Point Cabrillo Drive, Point Cabrillo, CA USA
www.pointcabrillo.org

Point Cabrillo Light House is a beautifully restored, still-working light station. Visit the lighthouse, the Lightkeepers Museum, and view the tide pool aquarium. The light station also throws a Whale Festival in March every year, and bird watching tours throughout the season.

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Category: Harbor
Fort Bragg, California, United States
Noyo Harbor, Fort Bragg, CA 95468 US

Tucked into the forested hills at the south end of Fort Bragg, Noyo Harbor, the area's last active commercial fishing harbor, is a great starting point for a day out on the ocean. Go fishing, whale watching or kayaking, and when you return, dine at one of the many restaurants in Noyo Harbor, with a great view of the Noyo Bridge and of the Pacific sunset.

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Glass Beach in Fort Bragg

Category: Beach
Fort Bragg, California, United States
Elm Street, Fort Bragg, CA US

The Glass Beach in Fort Bragg was once the town dump. Over the years, crashing waves have broken the dump's old bottles and polished the pieces into beautiful "jewels," which people now collect; blue pieces are especially rare.

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Category: State Park
Mendocino, California, United States
Highway 1, Mendocino, CA US

Known for the Russian Gulch Creek Canyon, and the Devil’s Punch Bowl (a large, collapsed sea cave with churning water), Russian Gulch State Park also has a beautiful beach for swimming, and a 36-foot high waterfall inland. Explore miles of hiking trails and a paved three-mile bicycle trail.

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Category: Wharf / Pier/ Boardwalk
Santa Barbara, California, United States
220 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 US

When visiting Santa Barbara one place I always frequent along with an estimated 1.6 million others per year is Sterns Wharf. Built in 1872, Sterns is one of the only working piers left between Los Angles and the Bay Area. The venerable wooden landmark hosts everything from bait shops to fortune tellers and is center to a small port hosting dozens of live-aboard sail boats, artists, beach bums, dive boats, commercial and recreational fishing boats, characters selling souvenirs, and a host of other attractions. The 1,950 foot pier boasts several medium priced restaurants that serve good food and feature live music that gets people on their feet. There is plenty of space to drop a line along or at the end of the pier for fishing. A variety of fish run there including bonito, bass, halibut, and many other species. A big plus is that a license is not required to fish off the pier and several bait shops rent everything an angler may need so regulars and tourists alike can limit out most of the time. Also, there are charters and rentals available for going off-shore. Santa Barbara certainly offers a lot and Sterns Wharf is part of it.

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Category: Cultural Center
San Diego, California, United States
1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 US

At 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is the country’s largest urban cultural park and home to 15 museums, beautiful gardens, performing arts venues, and last, but not least, the San Diego Zoo. Many of the museums are housed in baroque Spanish Colonial Revival buildings and most are linked by the Prado, a pedestrian walkway, and, for the sightseeing-weary, a free tram.

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Category: Animal Park
San Diego, California, United States
1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 US
www.sandiegozoo.org

The San Diego Zoo, in Balboa Park, is most known for its seven pandas, resting in the shade of tall bamboos and checking out visitors with composed expressions. Traipse the Monkey Trail, and visit the Absolutely Apes exhibit, where orangutans and siamangs show off less poise than the panda. Make sure you visit Wild Animal Park, which is also part of the zoo. Check out www.sandiegozoo.org for more information.

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San Diego Museum of Contemporary Art

Category: Art Museum
La Jolla, California, United States
700 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037 US
www.mcasd.org

Sitting on a cliff overlooking the ocean in La Jolla, the Museum of Contemporary Art, with its soaring ceilings, is a beautiful concrete and glass case for the art it contains. The museum’s permanent collection includes more than 4,000 works created after 1950, in all media and genres. Check out the collection of Pop art from the 1960s and 70s, and art from California and the San Diego region. The museum also has a downtown location, with more avant-garde pieces. For museum hours and exhibits, see www.mcasd.org.

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Category: Historic Walking Area
Los Angeles, California, United States
6925 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 US

No visit to Los Angeles is complete without a stop at Grauman’s Chinese Theater along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Sure it might sound like an incredibly “touristy” thing to do, but usually the most “touristy” attractions are the most awesome! Located in the heart of Hollywood, Grauman’s Chinese Theater is no exception. Where else in the world can you find people from all over the world gathered in one place to gape and gawk at the handprints of famous people while snapping photos with wanna-be actors disguised as Superman, Jack Sparrow or Freddy Krueger? What other location has a perfect view of the Hollywood Sign, access to popular shopping outlets and even features high school aged street musicians playing uncanny renditions of Hotel California on the sidewalk? Where else can you find a star for someone like Tom Hanks within the same vicinity as Steve Guttenberg? Only in LA baby… Only in LA.

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Category: Wharf / Pier/ Boardwalk
Santa Monica, California, United States
Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401 US
http://www.santamonicapier.org/

Travel down Santa Monica Boulevard all the way to the end and you’ll meet one of two things. 1.) The Pacific Ocean or 2.) The Santa Monica Pier. Hopefully you’ll have enough common sense not to drive your car into the ocean, and instead visit one of the most beautiful and celebrated attractions in all of California. Opened to the public in 1909 the Santa Monica Municipal Pier has since expanded to include several restaurants, an arcade and an amusement park complete with carousels, a Ferris wheel and several roller coasters. Take a stroll over the pier and admire the massive expanse of water known as the Pacific Ocean or grab a fishing rod and try your luck at catching some Mackerel or White Sea Bass. There’s very little free parking in the vicinity so suck it up and pay the 3 to 7 bucks to enjoy the serene setting and the gorgeous weather. Special note: If you’re visiting the Pier in the winter, make sure to bring a jacket or fleece. The air is slightly cooler in Santa Monica due to the moisture off the Pacific Ocean.

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Venice Beach

Category: Beach
Half Moon Bay, California, United States
Venice Blvd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 US
http://www.venicebeach.com/

There are countless beaches in and around the Los Angeles area, so why feature Venice Beach as a LA attraction? Simple, Venice Beach is unique. Like so many of the gorgeous beach front property in Southern California, Venice Beach possesses stunning views, sandy coasts and optimal locations to soak up some rays; However, unlike so many of these places Venice Beach emanates a groovy and eclectic aura that comes not only from it's history but also from the passion of it's residents. Named and modeled after the unique canal and pedestrian vibe of Venice, Italy, Venice Beach was founded by tobacco millionaire Abbot Kinney in 1905. Kinney drained the marsh land for the residential area, built a 1,200 foot pier for restaurants and various tourist attractions and constructed a block-long arcaded business street with Venetian architecture. Today, the beach is home not only to an ethnically and racially diverse population but also to multiple muscle bulging body builders who can be seen doing some serious free weights in a section often referred to as Muscle Beach. Thankfully you don't have to look like these Schwarzenegger clones to catch some sun at Venice Beach, all you need is an open mind and a couple hours dedicated to enjoying LA's most exciting destinations!

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Category: Shopping
Beverly Hills, California, United States
Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 US
http://rodeodrive-bh.com/index3.html

Rodeo Drive (pronounced Ro-DAY-O) is where the rich and famous go to feel rich and famous. This internationally known shopping district consists of three blocks of the most fashionable and expensive boutiques that would put your local JC Penny's to shame. Located in the heart of Beverly Hills it's quite simply a shopping lover's ultimate fantasy (and a shopping hater's ultimate nightmare). Look in any direction to see the latest in French fashion or a world class jeweler that could break your bank account with one small purchase. Back in the 1700's the natives of California considered the region to be a holy site because of it provided abundant amounts of water and food. They named it "El Rodeo de Las Aguas" which is translated to mean "The Gathering of the Waters." Developer Burton E. Green purchased the property in 1906 and made sure it retained the same name, and the same feeling of abundance. Although the district is known for it's expensive fashion, that doesn't stop thousands of tourists every year from flocking to the region to sample some of the regions wares… or at least to window shop.

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Category: Arena / Stadium
Los Angeles, California, United States
2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068 US
http://www.hollywoodbowl.com/index.cfm

Although Austin, Texas is known as the live music capital of the world, Los Angeles, California is really the place musicians come to get their music out to the world. And the ultimate live music venue in all of Los Angeles is a little 17,376 seat amphitheater known as The Hollywood Bowl. Nestled comfortably in the Hollywood Hills, The Hollywood Bowl is the largest natural amphitheater in the United States and has been home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra since its opening way back in 1922. Today, the worlds top music acts in genres ranging from Hip Hop and Rock and Roll to Classical and Free Form Jazz come from around the world to perform their music in front of thousands of screaming fans. However, the Bowl doesn’t just feature popular music acts but various and eclectic sights ranging from broad way theater, Asian acrobats, high school commencements, fireworks spectaculars, film screenings and even the occasional wedding.

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Category: Beach
Marina del Rey, California, Cape Verde, United States
Venice Beach, Los Angeles, CA US
http://www.venicebeach.com/

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Category: State Park
Calistoga, California, United States
3801 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA 94515 US

Want to get out and enjoy the great outdoors? Head Bothe State Park. Located in the heart of the beautiful Napa Valley wine country, the park is perfect for setting up a tent, swimming, or hiking trails that meander through those majestic redwoods (please, take the obligatory "Honey I Shrunk the Kids" photo as the forest towers hundreds of feet above). For another nice hike, check out Ritchey Canyon Trail. After hoofing the short distance to Ritchey Creek, it might be time to stop for a snack. Break out the cheese and a bottle of red (don’t forget an opener). It's the perfect picnicking spot, although the sound of the creek might make you have to use the restroom. Good thing there's lot of trees to hide behind.

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Category: Flea / Street market
Napa, California, United States
644 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 US

These days, it's pretty rare to have shaken the hand of the woman who grows the produce you eat or the man who butchers your meat. However, for those of us who want to get back in touch with the food we eat, Napa's Oxbow Public Market is where it's at. This indoor, year-round market is located in the city of Napa, along the gorgeous Napa River. Inside, find local cheese and wine stalls, regional olive oils, sustainably raised beef… and that's just the tip of the organically grown iceberg lettuce. It's the perfect place to spend the day sipping coffee, browsing through kitchen accessories and seeing how the food you eat is made. Try doing that at your local mega-grocery store!

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Category: Art Gallery
Napa, California, United States
8445 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA 94558 US

Mumm might be known internationally for their delicious bubbly… but the Fine Arts Photography Gallery deserves a serious toast. The collection, located in their gorgeous winery, showcases the work of shutterbugs from around the globe. The exhibit gives off a great Italian-vibe with terra cotta tiled corridor. Recent exhibits include photos from Jenny Ellerbe and Patrick Jablonski as well as a stellar collection from B & W great Ansel Adams. Best of all? Sipping champagne while checking out the exhibit is encouraged. The gallery is open 10am to 5pm daily.

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Category: Winery
Calistoga, California, United States
1091 Larkmead Ln, Calistoga, CA 94515 US

Oeniphiles take note: Typically, tasting in Napa and Sonoma isn't free. Walk the grounds of a breathtaking vineyard all day for nil, but if you work up a thirst, be prepared to cough up some bucks or hoof it to the water fountain. Fortunately, a few places allow sipping for free before you buy. We dug the casual vibe they had going on at Frank Family Vineyards, where tasting manager let us sip some sparkling vino. Old-school vineyard Heitz Cellars also does some complimentary tasting. It’s one of the oldest original vineyards in the area… so, consider it a history lesson. And V. Sattui does some nice wines as well for those tasting on the cheap. They do say there’s no such thing as a free lunch. Free wine? Well, that’s another story.

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Category: Forest
Calistoga, California, United States
4100 Petrified Forest Rd, Calistoga, CA 94515 US

Clark Griswold alert! The Petrified Forest, located just north of Napa/Sonoma, is a perfect mini-road trip for families or geology gurus. The area boasts one of the world’s best examples of “pliocene fossil forest”… as if we knew what that meant. Turns out, it’s a forest that’s been turned into solid silica, stone and quartz due to a million years of volcanic eruptions, erosion and water saturation. Take a short hike around the park, checking out the fallen, petrified trees as well as a rockin’ view of Mt. St. Helena. And we found the kitschy, vintage information signs from decades ago- they’re hysterical (check out the photos and see for yourself). Yes, kiddies, time to pile into that wood paneled station wagon and hit the dusty trail.

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Hermosa Beach

Category: Beach
Hermosa Beach, California, United States
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 US

An expansive beach set against a colorful facade of surfer dude dwellings. This is the beach to visit for an especially lazy day. Plop your stuff just about anywhere and be sure that you won't feel crowded. Often Hermosa's empty even on the weekends! Bring a picnic and boogie board (in the summer - winter winds call for bigger surf boards and expertise), or stroll the small shopping area near the pier for an after sea-salt snack. All wallet-sizes accomodated. I recently tried The Lighthouse Cafe: a historic jazz club with live music and worthy happy hour fare. But I've also gotten lost while wandering the residential section looking for my car and happened to find the best fish taco off the western coast!

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Category: Nature Park
Los Angeles, California, United States
7300 Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90046 US

An aerobic and scenic workout awaits! Find open air above Hollywood's most bustling and smog-ridden tourist sights! Bring the pooch too! You may even spot Paris Hilton's famous tuffs of fur while you climb one of several sandy trails. While living in West Hollywood with a family friend, I found that Runyon Canyon Park hiking trails were the quickest way to get away from the rush, get on my feet and excercise and make some sweaty celebrity spottings! Moreover, I experienced the natural Southern California terrain as it was before palm trees were planted and sod grass was heavily watered. Sandy and prickly, but perfect on the well-shoed feet. There are warning for rattlesnakes and scorpions, but unless you bring a curious beast (pets don't have to be on a leash) you should be safe while on the trails. They're fairly busy during peak hours, but don't worry about dressing for the gym. This is the great outdoors for Hollywood's finest, but certainly nothing fancy is needed - besides sunglasses. That Cali sun is hot! Views of Hollywood and the Valley follow in short order once you reach the top - if you pick a trail that doesn't cut through the smog cloud that is. Overall, Runyon Canyon Park is highly recommended if you want to get on your feet and don't have a gym membership for your short or temporary stay. Also: Enter on Vista Street. Park a ways down the hill as soon as you see a spot, even on a cross street. There is never anything close to the gate and parallel parking on a steep hill can be scary! Plus, you're there to excercise anyway, right?

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Category: Shopping
Los Angeles, California, United States
Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA US

If you fancy yourself hip, or at least hipster-friendly, you will find home in this street. And that's saying a lot about a city that most people cannot imagine ever calling home. Of course, Melrose's secret ingredient is in its shopping. I love Melrose because it's dotted with edgy T-shirt shops, novelty and nick-nack, and certainly Vogue-worthy boutiques. There's a store front for everyone - celebrities included. I fell for Aaardvark's after finding several cheap chic vintage scarves in their sale bin. As for food, you have to check out Pink's just north of Melrose on La Brea. Wait in line for the chili dog. It's worth it. I also found myself attending a double feature of "Last American Virgin" and "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" one night at the Reagent Showcase Theatre in the neighborhood. Cast and crew took questions at intermission. Visit Melrose Avenue you hipster you!

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Rubicon Trail

Category: Natural Trail
South Lake Tahoe, California, United States
Rubicon Trail, South Lake Tahoe, CA US

Ever notice how in SUV commercials there’s always footage of the vehicle blazing over some ridiculously rugged and bumpy wilderness in super slow motion? Ever feel a bit sad that your car will never encounter that type of an environment? Well, weep no more because I’ve found that rugged, all-terrain wilderness: the Rubicon Trail. A 22-mile-long route located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range just west of Lake Tahoe, the Rubicon Trail is the perfect trail for hikers, bikers, nature lovers, and of course – off-road enthusiasts. With part of the trail used as a testing ground by Daimler Chrysler for their Jeep models, a trip down the Rubicon Trail showcases the California wilderness like nothing else. Featuring lakes, hills, creeks, springs, craters and forests as well as the abundant wild life, there’s never a dull moment while traveling down the Rubicon. There are also some pretty intense trail regulations to prevent damage to its natural beauty - like staying within 25 feet of the middle of the trail and never driving over vegetation. So start the engines and buckle up – the Rubicon Trail awaits!

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Ski Lake Tahoe

Category: Ski Mountain
California, United States
Lake Tahoe, Nevada US

During the ski season thousands of snow lovers from all over Nevada and California flock to the Tahoe slopes for some of the best skiing in the world. And unlike several small ski towns with limited trail options, Lake Tahoe and the surrounding area contains over a dozen resorts and ski parks allowing choices aplenty for even the pickiest of powder pushers. Angle your blades or board down the steep declines of the Heavenly Mountain Resort, the largest ski area in California and Nevada or catch some serious air while carving moguls in Squaw Valley, the second largest ski area and home to the 1960 Winter Olympics. And for those who prefer to race down a snowy mountain on their back rather than on two feet, there are several resorts that provide sledding and snow tubing options galore (Granlibakken is even equipped with rope tows that help sledders get up the hill.) So, this year - instead of just traveling to Lake Tahoe for some summer fun – venture out during the winter to experience the full picture of what Lake Tahoe has to offer!

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Emerald Bay State Park

Category: Nature Park
South Lake Tahoe, California, United States
Emerald Bay State Park, South Lake Tahoe, CA US

Emerald Bay. Doesn't that name just sound exquisite? It'd be a shame if the setting didn't match the beauty of the name. Thankfully, Emerald Bay State Park lives up to its name. Located about 22 miles South of Tahoe City, Emerald Bay State Park (EBSP) is one of Lake Tahoe's most popular and most photographed locations thanks to its sweeping landscapes and awe-inspiring beauty. Recognized as a National Natural Landmark by the federal Department of Interior in 1969, the park is home to the gorgeous Eagle Falls, the Vikingsholm – a 38 room mansion and one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States – and the only island in all of Lake Tahoe: Fannette Island. With summer temperatures ranging from the low 40's at night to the mid 70's during the day, the climate is perfect for the nature lover in need of a relaxing hike or even a few days camping in the woods. I'm thinking they should make its motto: "Emerald Bay State Park: Great Name, Even Better Place."

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Fallen Leaf Lake

Category: Lake
California, United States
Fallen Leaf Lake, Lake Tahoe, California US

Here's a question. We're talking all about Lake Tahoe – the largest freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains - so why am I writing about a tiny little lake located a mile south of it? Well that's because Fallen Leaf Lake is no ordinary lake! Created by the melting of two glaciers a long, long time ago, Fallen Leaf Lake is a 2.9 mile slice of aquatic heaven. At about 415 feet deep, the lake is practically perfect for all water sports. With ample room for boats of all shapes and sizes, those with a desire for wakeboarding, waterskiing, kayaking, rowing and even sailing will find themselves at home on Fallen Leaf Lake. Fishing can also be fun, with a good supply of Brook and Rainbow trout calling the lake home. And thankfully, due to a lack of commercial development (read: no Starbucks), the water quality of the lake is exceptional.

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Granite Chief Wilderness

Category: Mountain
California, United States
Granite Chief Wilderness, Lake Tahoe, California USA

Muscle and sinew flex as you strain up the last few feet. The thin air stings your lungs. Finally, you reach the peak. 9,019 feet above the earth you survey a beautiful wilderness in every direction. Where are you? Three words: Granite Chief Wilderness. A 19,048 acre federally designated wilderness located in the Tahoe National Forest, the Granite Chief Wilderness (GCW) is truly nature at its best. Created by the California Wilderness Act of 1984, the GCW is perfect for day-hiking, backpacking, fishing, cross-country skiing, horsepacking trips and mountain climbing. Popular events such as the Western States Endurance Run and the equestrian Western States Trail Ride will cross over into portions of this epic wilderness. SPECIAL NOTE: All campgrounds in the Granite Chief Wilderness require an entrance fee except for the Talbot Campground.

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Category: Nature Park
Newport Beach, California, United States
Pacific Coast Highway , Newport Coast, CA US

Despite being just a few miles from one of the largest population centers in the United States, somehow a visit to Crystal Cove State Park makes one feel like they are in the center of their own private universe. And thankfully that private universe located in Newport Beach, has over three miles of pristine, Pacific beach front property and features over two thousand acres of undeveloped woodland perfect for a hike or a leisurely trot atop a fine horse. Grab a surfboard and hit those famous California waves; bust out that dust collecting mountain bike and show it what it was really made for; or simply strip down to your swim suite let the gentle Orange County sun work its magic. And for those who visit the park during the winter, don't fear – the State Park Rangers offer guided nature hikes for times when it might be too cold to swim. FUN FACT: The house from the Bette Midler film Beaches is located here.

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Category: Island(s)
Newport Beach, California, United States
Balboa Island, Newport Beach, CA US

Although one might think this tiny landmass in Newport Harbor has something to do with Sylvester Stallone and his boxing alter-ego, Balboa Island really has nothing in common with the "Rocky" franchise: except for perhaps both are considered universally popular and timeless. Actually comprised of three modified or artificial islands - Balboa Island, the smaller Little Balboa Island and the smallest Collins Island – this gorgeous slice of heaven is one of the most visited spots in all of Newport Beach. With approximately 3,000 residents living in the 0.2 square miles of available space, Balboa Island is also one of the densest communities in California (even higher than San Francisco.) Home to a close knit community of wealthy professionals, families, and celebrities, the real estate on Balboa Island is some of the most sought after in the United States. Stroll along the peaceful streets and let life's problems float away. For those with a sweet tooth, check out one of the many tasty snack shops on Marine Avenue (try the Balboa bar – a square of vanilla ice cream on stick dipped in chocolate!) And just when the day couldn't get better, grab a drink and watch the sun as it sets - spitting vibrant orange and red hues off the water's glimmering surface. Ahhh… perfection!

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Orange County Museum of Art

Category: Art Museum
Newport Beach, California, United States
850 San Clemente Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660 US
Visiting Details
SPECIAL NOTE: The museum is closed on Monday and Tuesday and is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday and 11.a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday. Cost is 10 dollars for adults, 8 dollars for students and seniors and children under 12 get in free!

For the discerning art patrons, do not worry. The Orange County Museum of Art has not fallen prey to the Hollywood façade seen in Orange County themed television shows like the O.C. and Laguna Beach. In fact with a mission statement that proclaims a passionate desire to "enrich the lives of a diverse and changing community through modern and contemporary art" the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMoA) seems to be doing just fine. Serving as the premier visual arts organization in Orange County, OCMoA provides excellent samples of art and culture for a population of over three million residents in one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country. Drawing over 60,000 visitors annually - including over 15,000 children and adults who participate in their award winning art education programs - the museum's phenomenal collection of nearly 2,500 unique works of art is sure to appeal to all ages. With such critically acclaimed exhibits like Picasso to Pollack: Modern Masterpieces from the Wadsworth Athenaeum Museum of Art and an educated and experienced staff of curators and teachers running classes and tours, the idea that this museum has become enamored with the superficial glitz and glamour of Hollywood simply because of its location on the map is almost laughable.

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Category: Festival
Newport Beach, California, United States
4500 Campus Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660 US
Visiting Details
http://www.newportbeachfilmfest.com

An annual celebration of film, life and culture, the Newport Beach Film Festival is a prestigious event attracting over 350 films of all genres and over 30,000 attendees to the gorgeous shores of Orange County. Founded in 1999, this unique fest has been home to the U.S. Premiere of 2006 Best Picture winner Crash and screened such modern day classics as Waitress, Son of Rambow and The King of Kong.

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Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve

Category: Nature Park
Newport Beach, California, United States
Newport Beach, CA US

Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve has about as many words in its name as it does acres of open space. Err - that's actually a bit of an overstatement since the reserve has over 1,000 acres of open space preserved with one thing in mind: to keep the focus on nature. And they've done a pretty good job. The Nature Preserve section of the park is home to three sensitive species – the California Gnatcatcher, the San Diego Cactus Wren and the Burrowing Owl – while the Ecological Reserve section is renowned as one of the finest bird watching sites in North America (during winter over 35,000 birds can be seen at one time). Located near the 73 Freeway, this gorgeous nature sanctuary is easily accessible for all people interested in hiking, cycling, canoeing, kayaking, fishing or simply enjoying the unspoiled beauty of California wetlands. And for those interested in learning more about the nature preserve while indoors, check out the state of the art facilities within the Muth Interpretive Center where the mission statement is "to promote and support the protection and preservation of California Coastal Wetlands through environmental education."

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Category: Museum
Newport Beach, California, United States
600 E Bay Ave, Newport Beach, CA 92661 US
Visiting Details
SPECIAL NOTE: The museum is open Wednesday & Thursday from 11 am - 5 pm; Friday and Saturday: 11 am - 6 pm; Sunday: 11 am - 5 pm; and is closed: Monday & Tuesday.

I don't know what my problem is, but whenever I hear the word "nautical" I have an odd desire to start ordering people "starboard" or demanding someone "lower the main sail." It could be because I love pirates, but it's most likely due to my time spent at the Newport Harbor Nautical Museum. Located in the Balboa Fun Zone, Newport Harbor Nautical Museum (NHNM) provides a fascinating window into the maritime history of the region. Founded in a one room facility in 1986, the museum's collection soon outgrew its tiny trappings and in 1995 moved into a 13,000 square foot restaurant that boasted three galleries, a classroom and a library. The museum moved once again in 2006 to a gorgeous 34,000 square feet waterfront property where it now resides. Featuring over 58,000 historic maritime photos from the Newport Beach area dating all the way back to the 1890's and hundreds of authentic ship models (including one made from bone and human hair!), the museum presents maritime history in a unique way. Just don't order anyone to wash the poop deck!

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Lake Nacimiento

Category: Nature Park
Lake Nacimiento, California, United States
San Luis Obispo County, CA US

Fact: Any lake shaped like a dragon has to be awesome. Fact: Lake Nacimiento is shaped like a dragon. Fact: Lake Nacimiento is awesome. So now that that's out of the way, let's learn about more about this awesome, dragon shaped lake. Located in northern San Luis Obispo County, the 18 mile long Lake Nacimiento is formed by the Nacimiento Dam which helps provide irrigation water and flood control for the region. Oh yeah, it's also one of the most beautiful and purposeful lakes in the world. In addition to the aforementioned flood control and irrigation, Nacimiento provides an abundance of fish (containing a large amount of white bass), helps create power thanks to a turbine at the base of the dam, and is a haven to some of the most intense water sport enthusiasts in the world. Thanks to it's wide shores and already mentioned 18 mile length, Lake Nacimiento provides ample room for waterskiing, wakeboarding, jetskiing, boating and – although some don't consider it a sport – fishing.

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Category: Castle
California, United States
750 Hearst Castle Road, San Simeon , CA US
Visiting Details
Tours are open to the public and tickets run between 24 and 30 dollars.

A friend of mine used to live in a three story house. I always considered three stories a mansion. That is until I saw Hearst Castle – now that’s a mansion. Hearst Castle is the palatial estate built by newspaper millionaire William Randolph Hearst and considered Orson Welles’ inspiration for Xanadu in the classic film Citizen Kane. Located on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean near San Simeon, the Hearst Corporation donated the castle to the state of California in 1957 and it is now considered a State Historical Monument and a National Historic Landmark. Formerly dubbed by Hearst himself as La Cuesta Encantada (the Enchanted Hill), the castle is spread out on an estate over 90,000 square feet (that’s big) and features an indoor pool modeled after the Roman baths, a massive Gothic study and the famous Neptune Pool – which is fed by mountain water and is surrounded on all sides by ancient Greek style columns and statues.

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Category: Winery
California, United States
San Simeon, CA 93452-9741 US

I consider anyone who owns over 180 bottles of wine to be a wine connoisseur. What do you call a town that has over 180 wineries? Paso Robles, of course. With over 180 wineries in and around the area, the town is the definition of a wine country. Home to a rich, diverse soil and an extended growing season, Paso Robles is a region that has been blessed by the gods of wine with the absolute perfect growing conditions for churning out some of the best premium and ultra-premium wines in the entire world. With over 40 distinct and delicious wine grape varieties thriving in the Paso Robles soil ranging from Merlot to Zinfandel, Paso Robles is also home to some of the best wine tastings and wine festivals in the world. In late March, experience three days of wine tasting heaven at the world famous Zinfandel festival. Take a delicious ride on the Paso Robles Grand Tour - a national marketing tour bringing the best wine and wine makers Paso Robles has to offer to one location! Or, for those with a bit simpler taste, visit any of the 180 wineries in the region and ask this question of any one of the experienced employees: What do you recommend? Trust me, it never disappoints.

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Category: Hot Springs / Geyser
Paso Robles, California, United States
3085 Creston Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446 US

Man has always enjoyed the luxury of hot water. Over the years, the invention of electricity, indoor plumbing and hot tubs has only grown our reliance on water of high temperature. But for those who want to experience the true benefits and pleasures of hot water, I give you Franklin Hot Springs. A natural hot springs located in Paso Robles, Franklin Hot Springs holds water that has emerged spontaneously from the core of the earth and is consistently heated to a temperature of 98 degrees – just right! The water is also positively charged, ionized mineral spring water with the positive elements of potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium and fluoride scattered throughout (that's a good thing). Most people find themselves refreshed and energized after a leisurely swim in Franklin Hot Springs, but swimming in the glorious waters isn't the only thing to do! Grab a rod and lure and take a boat out onto the peaceful waters for a lazy afternoon of fishing (no boating license required!); Or for those in need of a little more stimulation, sign up for an intense game of paintball at the fields nearby. Special note: Natural hot springs have even been thought to accelerate healing and are often recommended for those with such conditions as arteriosclerosis, diabetes and arthritis.

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Category: Winery
Paso Robles, California, United States
Paso Robles, CA US

It's hard to find a better way to spend a weekend than at the Zinfandel festival. Held in late March every year, this festival is a weekend dedicated to the purest parts of life: wine and food. With over 100 wineries hosting an array of special events like winemaker dinners, food pairings – where you learn what food tastes good with certain wines – and special seminars throughout, the weekend never has a dull moment. The main portion of the festival is divided up into three main events: the RESERVE event – where wineries showcase one special reserve wine – the Wine Country Auction – with both a live and silent auction - and the Zinfandel Grand Tasting which features Zinfandel and Zinfandel blends from over 40 of the best area wineries. Don't worry though; all of these events have food catered from some of the best local chefs who specialize in concocting appetizers and dishes that meld perfectly with the smooth taste of the California wine country. Vive la vino!

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