CALIFORNIA TRAVEL
Planning a trip to California is like trying to decipher Hieroglyphics, it’s tough! Thankfully I’ve lived in different parts of California and have documented the better half of my life in these areas. For those of you who want to learn about the gems of California and where to travel to, start reading below:
Northern California
Northern California is one of the most beautiful regions of the entire world (definitely not biased). Deciding on what to do and where to go is a major challenge because of the vast amounts of activities you can choose from. Here are some cities that you should visit when in Northern California
San Francisco
Arguably one of the best cities in the world, San Francisco should be on everyone’s bucket list. If you have the chance to make it to this unforgettable destination, go! Here are some of my favorite things to do when in San Francisco:
Oakland, CA aka "The Town"
Oakland is a city experiencing rapid growth which should be enjoyed by visitors. This city has always been overshadowed by San Francisco but don’t underestimate the town. Oakland has plenty to do with tons of things people end up regrettfully missing.
Here are some guides of the best things you can do when in Oakland
- Kaiser Rooftop Garden Guide – A hidden Bay Area gem
- Visit Lake Merritt in Oakland aka “The Town”
Santa Cruz, CA
Santa Cruz, CA is one of the best places to surf in California. This small coastal surf city has made it’s name across the world as a premiere surf destination. Aside from surfing,
Berkeley, CA
Berkeley is one of California’s historic liberal cities and home too one of the most prestigious college campuses, UC Berkeley
There are tons of amazing activities to be had in Berkeley, but here are a few of my favorites
Lake Tahoe - California's Best Lake to Visit
Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful lakes in California, and the entire world. The area that surrounds Lake Tahoe is one of the best for adventure athletes and photographers.
Tahoe Ski Resorts to know about:
- Squaw Valley aka Palisades at Tahoe
- Northstar
- Heavenly
- Diamond Peak
California National Parks
California has over 10 National Parks that every visitor should visit at least once. Thankfully, each region of the state provides a National Park experience that will amaze every traveler.
Some popular parks that immediately come to most people’s minds are Yosemite, Sequoia National Park, and many more.
Some parks that don’t get as much attention but are just as amazing are:
Pinnacles National Park
Death Valley
Lassen Volcanic
Southern California - LA/Orange County/San Diego
This area of California is another impressive part of the state but wildly different than the rest. It’s a running debate whether the Northern parts and Southern parts will ever come to a conclusion of which region runs the land. Until then, keep these places on your radar:
- Orange County: Newport Beach – Laguna Beach – San Clemente – Irvine
- Los Angeles: Downtown – Long Beach
- San Diego: Joshua Tree – Palm Springs