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California Travel Articles
Relax, Explore and Experience California Vacations
by N Spin
Ever since the gold rush of the 1840's, people have been traveling to California to discover its beauty and excitement. From the towering Sierra Nevada Mountains and tall redwood forests to the vast desert and rugged coastline, California offers a vast range of breathtaking views as it extends 1,100 miles down the west coast. Just as diverse as the landscape, the opportunities for exploration are endless on your next vacation to the Golden State.
Home to the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf and famous Alcatraz Island, San Francisco offers exciting landmarks, a highly diverse culture, and picturesque views of the bay from the steep rolling hills. Make exploring the city more exciting by riding on a cable car that travels through Chinatown. With street festivals year round and fantastic shopping through the diverse neighborhoods, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the culture of the city. At the end of the day, give your feet a rest and dine at one of several delectable world-class restaurants.
Heading to Southern California, don't let the sprawling city of Los Angeles turn you away. This diverse city has entertainment for everyone. Visit Hollywood and find your favorite actor on the walk of fame, venture to Mann's Chinese Theatre to place your hands and feet where celebrities once stood, and shop like the stars on Rodeo Drive. The Getty is a must see for museum buffs with its architecture, Western Art collection and magnificent garden.
When visiting the Los Angeles area, most vacationers think of Disney. Spring and summer mark the perfect times to escape to the enchantment of Disneyland in Anaheim. Kids and adults alike are sure to enjoy this fantasyland while hanging out with Mickey, Cinderella, Tarzan and friends. If you're staying in Anaheim, make sure to catch the free shuttle bus to Universal Studios Hollywood. Take a studio tour and discover how your favorite show was created or take a wet and wild raft ride on Jurassic Park.
A short drive south of Anaheim will take you to San Diego, where a must see is the world famous San Diego Zoo. Escape the heat of the day and enjoy the zoo's special summer hours that run until 8:00pm. Visit the polar bears, elephants, zebras, tigers and learn new fun facts. When hunger strikes, make sure to enjoy the fresh local seafood. And while you're in San Diego, don't forget to visit SeaWorld or the Museum of Contemporary Art.
If your idea of the perfect vacation is not the hustle of the city life, escape to one of natures many outdoor offerings. Yosemite National Park, known as the Crown Jewel, is nestled in Central California in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Nature enthusiasts can explore several hiking trails leading to Yosemite Falls, go rock climbing on the towering granite walls of Toulumne Meadow, or take a guided open-air tour of the Yosemite Valley.
The coastline of California offers a stunning vacation getaway. Highway One, which runs 90 miles from Cambria to Carmel, provides beautiful views of the rocky coastline. Make sure to visit one of several famous beaches such as Venice, Huntington, Laguna, and Manhattan, where you can soak in the sun along the California coast and participate in activities such as surfing, fishing, swimming, and biking.
The California wine country is every wine connoisseurs dream. Even the naive will enjoy tasting and touring the 200 plus wineries in the Napa Valley. In addition, there are several spas in the area where you can unwind with a mineral water soak, mud bath or a rejuvenating massage.
While Southern California's desert may not sound like an ideal vacation destination, the unique landscape of towering mountain tops and low valleys draws numerous visitors here in the winter. Hiking is always the best way to see the stunning terrain, but auto tours are also available for those who cannot make the journey. Springtime brings cactus and colorful poppy flowers to bloom and paints the desert landscape in orange and yellow.
As the largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe provides year round activities and relaxation. It's deep, crystal blue water and surrounding snow capped mountains provide the perfect playground for all. Enjoy boating and swimming in the summer and make sure to hit the ski slopes in the winter at Heavenly Mountain Resort. In addition, golfers will certainly want take advantage of the challenging and scenic courses of the Lake Tahoe Basin.
Whether your vacation dreams are to experience California's big cities, discover the vast landscape, or enjoy quiet and relaxation, finding the perfect vacation accommodations are important. No matter which part of California you visit, there are numerous lodging options to choose from. A California Vacation Rental is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to escape the crowded hotels and stay in a relaxing environment close to their family and friends. With all the amenities of home at your fingertips, you can have a memorable vacation both inside and outside of your vacation rental accommodations.
Whether its friends, family, couples or a large group, you're bound to find the perfect California Vacation Rental on HomeAway.com. Begin your search today for a vacation condo, villa, or home rental that makes your vacation memorable.
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