Solana Beach, California

A day at the Silver Strand State Beach is a must, playing in the surf and searching for seashells. Parking can be challenging, as all beaches on Coronado Island are very busy.  I recommend coming early in the morning and planning to stay all day.  Lots of food options are close to every be...

From San Diego, head South on Hwy 5 for 12 miles. Take a right on exit 5A for Palm Ave/CA-75. Take CA-75 west for 1.6 miles. Stay on Palm Ave as it splits from CA-75. Take Palm Ave for 1 mile until it reaches the coast. Turn left on Seacoast Dr and take it for 1 mile until you reach the Imperial ...

This spot is no secret but it’s by far one of the best beaches California has to offer and has been regarded since the 1950s as a friendly surfing sanctuary. The beach is divided into three surf spots (named from North to South), known as “The Point,” “Old Man’s,” and “Dogpatch.” To access the be...

Starting in Murrieta, CA you don't have to venture far to enjoy a beautiful view and less light polluted skies.From Murrieta on the I-15 freeway you're going to want to take the Clinton Kieth Road exit and head west. If you're low on gas make sure to fill up at the 7 Eleven on the left corner. Th...

Situated in the Palomar Mountains of Cleveland National Forest, Palomar Observatory Campground offers many amenities for enjoyable camping and exploring the area.  A portion of the campsites loop has been cleared of trees with level cement pads to allow campers to set up their own telescopes.  Dr...

The trail is wide and well maintained. The first mile of the trail is well shaded by oak trees. You'll see stunning rocky peaks and rolling green hills as the trail continues. There are three creek crossings to be aware of. Cleveland National Forest is dog friendly, but bring a leash! Hunting is ...

If you're ever driving on the 5 between San Diego and Los Angeles and traffic is miserable (always), consider making a stop at Dana Point to check out the tide pools. The best place is behind the Ocean Institute which offers plenty of free parking and a short walk behind the building will quickly...

Ocean views the whole time, plenty of wildlife and different species of native plants make this short hike beautiful. With the hike being short enough to complete in the afternoon after a day at the beach you can see a beautiful view of the coastline north and south. There is plenty of parking in...

Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park is the perfect place to getaway from the hubbub of LA. Enjoy the scenic drive north on Ortega Highway before reaching the entrance gate to the park. Parking Fees are currently $3 on Weekdays and $5 on Weekends. Camping Fees vary depending on your group size.  The...

There are two HUGE parking lots off of PCH, so parking isn't an issue (unless it's on a weekend in the summer, then it does get full). This is a paid lot with a few pay stations located around the parking lot, and they take cash and credit/ debit card...you can pay by the hour. Once you find your...

As of Friday, January 31st, 2025, Thousand Steps Beach is closed due to a landslide for an undetermined amount of time. More details are available here. Laguna Beach Caves are beautiful caves with blue, clear water. This place is free to visit, but please exercise caution and adhere to local up...

As of Friday, January 31st, 2025, Thousand Steps Beach is closed due to a landslide for an undetermined amount of time. More details are available here. A beautiful, sometimes secluded beach with two man made pools that collect saltwater during high tide and warm up during low tide. Unbelievable...

As of Friday, January 31st, 2025, Thousand Steps Beach is closed due to a landslide for an undetermined amount of time. More details are available here. Easy beach access and blue see-through waves with small crowds in the off season. This is a huge beach with the potential for wildlife spotting...

Laguna Beach is both the birthplace *and* and the capital of skimboarding, and for good reason: it boasts an impressive array of beaches where (if you know where to look) you can find one where the conditions are right for one of the most difficult but rewarding of water sports. Table Rock is one...

This wave is super fun to bodysurf and shoot photos of when there is a swell. It is a shorebreak so be careful of shallow water and little rocks. It usually isn't too crowded especially on weekdays. Bring your fins and a smile and you have a good time.

This is an awesome tucked away little adventure that will have you occupied all day! With plenty of picnic tables you can be sure to have your own privacy tucked into a corner free from other people. Grab a lake side picnic table or even the numerous ones around the grass fields, they are all won...