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    Fodor's Southern California: with Los Angeles, San Diego, the Central Coast & the Best Road Trips
    Fodor's Southern California: with Los Angeles, San Diego, the Central Coast & the Best Road Trips
    Fodor's Southern California: with Los Angeles, San Diego, the Central Coast & the Best Road Trips
    Ebook908 pages10 hours

    Fodor's Southern California: with Los Angeles, San Diego, the Central Coast & the Best Road Trips

    By Fodor's Travel Guides

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    About this ebook

    COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

    • More maps—including a free pullout map—than other guidebooks to the region; detailed road trip itineraries not found in competitor guides.

    TOURISM TRENDS:

    • California tourism grew 32% in 2022 and has now surpassed 2019 pre-pandemic levels (sparked primarily by domestic US tourists) even as international tourism levels are not expected to reach pre-pandemic levels until 2025.

    FULLY REDESIGNED!

    • New front cover has eye-catching full-bleed images with key selling points on the front
    • New back cover is fully-redesigned
    • “Best of” Lists will visually engage the reader and provide an overview of the entire destination (best things to eat, see, do, drink, as well as what to read and watch before going)
    • Visually focused with more color and images including more full and half-page images throughout and color-coded category icons
    • Other useful features including Great Itineraries, Walking Tours, Calendar of Events, What to Watch and Read Before Your Trip
    • “Travel Smart” (logistical planning tips section) now at the front of the book and redesigned to be more infographic in feel
    • Stronger Voice and Opinions give all Fodor's guides more personality. Books are more friendly and conversational in tone, going beyond informational to being inspirational

    CURATED AND RELEVANT:

    • Focused coverage on only the best places so travelers can make the most out of their limited time.
    • Carefully vetted recommendations for all types of establishments and price points.

    CONCISE:

    • Shortened reviews presented with brevity and focus.

    Please see additional key selling points in the book main description

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherFodor's Travel
    Release dateMay 21, 2024
    ISBN9781640977136
    Fodor's Southern California: with Los Angeles, San Diego, the Central Coast & the Best Road Trips
    Author

    Fodor's Travel Guides

    For over 80 years, Fodor's Travel has been a trusted resource offering expert travel advice for every stage of a traveler's trip. We hire local writers who know their destinations better than anyone else, allowing us to provide the best travel recommendations for all tastes and budgets in over 7,500 worldwide destinations. Our books make it possible for every trip to be a trip of a lifetime.

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      Book preview

      Fodor's Southern California - Fodor's Travel Guides

      Chapter 1: Experience Southern California

      20 ULTIMATE Experiences

      Southern California offers terrific experiences that should be on every traveler’s list. Here are Fodor’s top picks for a memorable trip.

      1 Hike to the Hollywood Sign

      The iconic Hollywood sign was originally erected in 1923 and read Hollywoodland. The easiest path starts from the Griffith Park Observatory. (Ch. 6)

      2 Find the weird at Venice Beach

      California’s counterculture—bodybuilders at Muscle Beach, head shops on the boardwalk—contrasts with multimillion-dollar homes along the Venice Canals. (Ch. 6)

      3 Catch waves in Malibu

      Surfrider Beach, a stretch of Malibu that includes the Malibu Pier, is popular with surfers and beach bums. On Zuma Beach, surfers share the water with sea lions. (Ch. 6)

      4 Suspend disbelief at Universal Studios

      Tour sets like Jaws and Back to the Future, or visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic World. (Ch. 6)

      5 Take the Ferry to Coronado

      The 15-minute ferry ride between Downtown San Diego and Coronado provides great views of Downtown and Naval Air Station North Island. (Ch. 4)

      6 Shop and Dine in Seaport Village

      Situated along the water, the recently revitalized Seaport Village is a 14-acre, open-air shopping and dining complex that’s home to shops and eateries, special events, and winding walking paths. (Ch. 4)

      7 Book a Kayak Tour or Surf Lesson in La Jolla

      One of the best local beaches for water sports, La Jolla Shores has rental and tour companies located just steps from the sand. There’s surf or SUP lessons, as well as snorkel and kayak tours. (Ch. 4)

      8 Explore Old Town San Diego

      The city’s oldest and most storied neighborhood is home to Mexican restaurants, souvenir shops, and cultural and historical attractions and celebrations. (Ch. 4)

      9 Explore the Gaslamp Quarter

      Covering more than 16 city blocks, this bustling neighborhood is great for shopping, dining, and nightlife. Guided walking tours of the historic district are available. (Ch. 4)

      10 See Wildlife in San Diego

      The San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park showcase wildlife without the claustrophobic animal cages. (Ch. 4)

      11 Camp in Joshua Tree

      Just east of Palm Springs is this national park, named for the yucca trees that Mormons named after the biblical Joshua, who raised his hands into the sky. (Ch. 8)

      12 Traverse Death Valley

      One of the hottest places on Earth, Death Valley sits on the eastern edge of California along the border with Nevada. (Ch. 10)

      13 Tour Old Mission Santa Barbara

      The Queen of Missions—one of the Central Coast’s most photographed structures—also contains superb colonial Spanish/Mexican art. (Ch. 11)

      14 Relive youth at Disneyland

      This truly is the happiest place on Earth. (Ch. 5)

      15 Tour Paramount Pictures

      The only surviving major studio from Hollywood’s golden age offers probably the most authentic tour, giving you a real sense of the film industry’s history. (Ch. 6)

      16 Go to a Show Taping in L.A.

      Dozens of sitcoms, talk shows, and game shows film every day in Los Angeles, and you can get tickets to be an audience member. (Ch. 6)

      17 Enjoy a concert at the Hollywood Bowl

      A live music amphitheater built into the side of the Hollywood Hills, the venue is known for its incredible acoustics. (Ch. 6)

      18 See Stars on the Walk of Fame

      The first stars were revealed in the early 1960s; today, more than 2,600 dot the Hollywood pavement. (Ch. 6)

      19 Experience Opulence at the Hearst Castle

      Once a celebrity hot spot hosting roaring ’20s parties, you can tour the palace’s zoo, gold-leaf Roman pool, and priceless art collection. (Ch. 11)

      20 Get a bird’s-eye view of Palm Springs

      Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway—the world’s largest rotating tramway. At the top (8,516 feet) are restaurants and hiking trails. (Ch. 7)

      California Today

      Has the Golden State Lost Its Luster? Is the California Dream Dead? So read the inevitable rueful headlines in stories detailing the supposedly insurmountable obstacles—most notably a declining population, the high cost of living (especially housing), wildfires, drought, crime, traffic congestion, homelessness, and high taxes. So dire are some of the assessments that one might assume there’s no reason to stay here, let alone come for a visit. This despite the fact that everything that has lured settlers and tourists from the get-go—breathtaking scenery, scintillating sightseeing, abundant natural resources, agricultural bounty, and a mostly hospitable climate—remains well in evidence.

      Although California, like the rest of the nation and world, faces daunting challenges, the same gloomy predictions (often bearing precisely the same lost its luster and dream dead headlines) have appeared before: in the middle of the Great Recession (2009), after the first dot-com implosion (2000), all the way back to the gold and silver busts of the 19th century. And guess what? In every instance, the state bounced back, sometimes brilliantly.

      Each allegedly ruinous calamity required reinvention, and each time residents rose to the occasion. Based on the past, there’s no reason to think that the Golden State won’t regain its luster—if it’s even been lost.

      POPULATION, POTENTIAL

      California’s birth rate and the pace of migration may have slowed, but they’re hardly stagnant. For perspective, consider that the current population of about 39 million (about an eighth of the U.S. total) represents a net increase of nearly 2 million since 2010, albeit a pace behind Texas and Florida. While many residents departing California cite the high cost of living, recent transplants tend to perceive the same potential here as previous settlers.

      HISTORICAL CONTEXT

      By most accounts, the ancestors of California’s indigenous peoples migrated from Asia, traversing a land bridge across the Bering Strait that formerly joined what’s now Russia and Alaska. Some of these trailblazers continued south to California, flourishing off the fertile land for centuries. Many famous place names—Malibu, Napa, Ojai, Shasta, Sonoma—reflect this heritage.

      Millennia later, Spanish explorers ventured north from Mexico searching for gold, with converts to Christianity the quest of 18th-century missionaries. Nineteenth-century miners rushed here from the world over also seeking gold—the state achieved statehood two years after the precious metal’s 1848 discovery.

      During the 20th century, successive, sometimes overlapping, waves of newcomers followed in their footsteps: real-estate speculators, would-be motion-picture actors and producers, Dust Bowl farmers and migrant workers, Asians fleeing poverty or chasing opportunity, sexual and gender pioneers, artists, dot-commers, venture capitalists, and these days AI practitioners.

      POLITICS

      The result is a population that leans toward idealism (some say utopianism)—without necessarily being as liberal as voter-registration statistics might lead one to think. California is Ronald Reagan’s old stomping ground, after all. Herbert Hoover also thrived here, and Richard Nixon was a native son. Democrats hold a 2–1 registration advantage over Republicans, the latter essentially tied with no party preference, but wander into some inland counties, and you may see signs proposing a breakaway, more conservative 51st State of Jefferson. Many residents in these areas supported a 2021 effort to recall Governor Gavin Newsom, a liberal Democrat. Early polls indicated the special-election race might be tight, but the governor prevailed by a substantial margin and was reelected to a second term in 2022.

      DEMOGRAPHICS

      As with politics, despite the stereotype of the blue-eyed, blond surfer, California’s population isn’t homogeneous either. Latino residents outnumber whites 40%–35%, with Asians (16%) and African Americans (6.5%) the next-largest groups. Residents here speak more than 220 languages, making California by far the nation’s most linguistically diverse state.

      ECONOMICS

      Back to California’s supposedly desperate situation: keep in mind that, in 2022, the Golden State reported a $98 billion budget surplus, hardly numbers to prompt despair and proving the Great Recession doomsayers predicting economic catastrophe way off the mark. (For the record, 2023 saw the state in the red to the tune of $30-plus billion.) California, responsible for 15% of the gross domestic product, leads all other states in income generated by agriculture, tourism, entertainment, and industrial activity. With a gross state product of approximately $3.6 trillion (median household income of about $79,000), by many estimates, California would have the world’s fifth-largest economy—some say the fourth—were it an independent nation.

      STILL DREAMIN’

      A few years ago, dueling state-of-the-state analyses appeared within days of each other. A historian’s New York Times opinion piece described California’s declining population and loss of a congressional seat as among negative firsts for the state that had sapped the collective sense of zealous optimism. The historian also predicted decades of pain if politicians didn’t quickly produce solutions to California’s pressing problems.

      Two days before the Times piece ran, the University of California published a study suggesting pretty much the opposite: that the rate of residents moving out of state is neither unusual nor something to fret over; that residents by a 2–1 majority still believe in the California Dream; and that the state attracts more than half the nation’s venture-capital investments, a sign that favorable economic conditions persist.

      The naysayers may well be right about California’s demise, but if history is any indication, the populace will likely shift gears as necessary. And again the next time it’s required. In the meantime, the state’s brigade of bucket-list attractions continues to supply the essentials for a dream vacation.

      WHAT’S WHERE

      dingbat San Diego. San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter and early California–theme Old Town have a human scale—but big-ticket animal attractions like the San Diego Zoo pull in visitors.

      dingbat Disneyland and Orange County. A diverse destination with premium resorts and restaurants, strollable waterfront communities, and kid-friendly attractions.

      dingbat Los Angeles. Go for the glitz of the entertainment industry, but stay for the rich cultural attributes and communities.

      dingbat Palm Springs and the Desert Resorts. Golf on some of the West’s most challenging courses, lounge at fabulous resorts, check out mid-century-modern architectural gems, and trek through primitive desert parks.

      dingbat Joshua Tree National Park. Proximity to major urban areas—as well as world-class rock climbing and nighttime celestial displays—help make this one of the most visited national parks.

      dingbat Mojave Desert. Material pleasures are in short supply here, but Mother Nature’s stark beauty more than compensates.

      dingbat Death Valley National Park. This vast, beautiful national park is often the hottest place in the country.

      dingbat The Central Coast. Three of the state’s top stops—swanky Santa Barbara, Hearst Castle, and Big Sur—sit along the scenic 200-mile route. A quick boat trip away lies scenic Channel Islands National Park.

      dingbat Monterey Bay Area. Postcard-perfect Monterey, Victorian-flavored Pacific Grove, and exclusive Carmel all share this stretch of California coast. To the north, Santa Cruz boasts a boardwalk, a UC campus, ethnic clothing shops, and plenty of surfers.

      What to Eat and Drink in Southern California

      CRAFT BEER

      Dubbed the Capital of Craft, San Diego has more than 150 craft breweries, a movement that began with Karl Strauss Brewing Company in 1989. Since then, the San Diego Brewers Guild established the San Diego Beer Week held every November, and a few neighborhoods have become craft brewery destinations in their own right.

      L.A. HOT DOGS

      While every major city in the country has their own take on street hot dogs, L.A.’s Mexican-inspired version is arguably the best. Wrapped in bacon and topped with grilled onions, bell peppers, ketchup, mustard, mayo, and jalapenos, it’s practically a ritual for anyone stumbling home drunk to grab one. Look for street carts in areas with a lot of bars.

      KOREAN BBQ TACOS

      If you like Korean BBQ and you enjoy street tacos, then you might be ready for Korean BBQ tacos, one of the few culinary creations that originated in La La Land. They’re exactly what they sound like—tacos but with Korean BBQ meats—and the best place to get them is from one of Roy Choi’s legendary Kogi food trucks. To find a location, go to kogibbq.com.

      FISH TACOS

      There’s a great debate about who makes the best fish tacos in San Diego. Rubio’s Coastal Grill is credited with popularizing fish tacos in the U.S.; the original location is still in Pacific Beach. The original tacos have fried pollock, white sauce, salsa, cabbage, and a corn tortilla.

      MEZCAL

      Mezcal is made from the agave plant, typically in Oaxaca, Mexico, so naturally the best Oaxacan restaurant in L.A. (Guelaguetza) would have a top-shelf selection. Hollywood’s Sassafrass Saloon has exquisite craft mezcals.

      IN-N-OUT

      No California food list is complete without the legendary In-N-Out. Where’s the closest In-N-Out? is asked by just about every tourist the moment they arrive. In-N-Out burgers and fries are made fresh and made to order, which is why they’re so good in the first place.

      FRENCH DIP

      Not only was the French Dip invented in Los Angeles, two different restaurants claim its origin. Philippe the Original in Downtown opened in 1908 and is a counter-style diner; Cole’s, also opened in 1908, is (slightly) more upscale and features a hidden speakeasy in the back of the restaurant.

      SEAFOOD FRESH FROM THE OCEAN

      You don’t have to go far to find a bounty of fresh seafood, most likely sourced from the waters off Southern California. Always check out the day’s catch—served shucked and placed on ice or in a sandwich, salad, or other dish.

      VEGETARIAN FOOD

      Californians are generally known to be health conscious, eating lots of fresh local produce (including adding avocado to everything). There are abundant vegetarian and vegan options throughout most of Southern California.

      TIKI COCKTAILS

      Tiki culture has obvious parallels to San Diego’s tropical, laid-back vacation vibe, so it’s no surprise that the concept took root here with rum as the star spirit. Sure bets include The Grass Skirt and False Idol. If you’re heading to Palm Springs, check out Bootlegger Tiki, Tonga Hut, or Toucans Tiki Lounge.

      10 Best Beaches in San Diego

      CORONADO

      Often praised for its sparkling sand, the island is home to the Hotel del Coronado, a 135-year-old luxury hotel perfect for postbeach snacks; Del Beach, which is open to the public; and Dog Beach where pooches can run free sans leash.

      MISSION BEACH

      Located near SeaWorld San Diego, Mission Beach is home to a bustling boardwalk that’s frequented by walkers, cyclists, and people-watchers. The bay is popular for water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding and Jet Skiing, but the beach is best known for Belmont Park, its oceanfront amusement park.

      WINDANSEA BEACH

      Seasoned surfers should head to La Jolla’s Windansea Beach for powerful waves. Tucked away in a residential area, Windansea’s entrance is marked by large rocks that make for a great place to watch or dry out, but recreational swimming is not advised here due to the strong surf.

      TORREY PINES STATE BEACH

      Situated at the base of a 1,500-acre natural reserve, La Jolla’s Torrey Pines State Beach offers a long, narrow stretch of pristine beach framed by picturesque sea cliffs. Beachgoers can add a hike to their itinerary that starts or finishes on the sand, with plenty of lookout areas for great photo ops. Beyond the bluffs, a salt marsh provides seclusion from businesses and their associated street noise.

      LA JOLLA SHORES

      Pack up the whole family for a beach day in La Jolla Shores, which is known for its calm waves, two parks, and playground. Sea caves and underwater canyons that are part of La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve—a marine protected area—attract kayakers and scuba divers.

      DEL MAR CITY BEACH

      In the upscale coastal neighborhood of Del Mar lie two beach parks that are popular for special events because of their stunning views of the Pacific. Seagrove Park is perched on the hill at the end of 15th Street, with benches for ocean gazing and winding paths along the bluffs. Farther north across the railroad tracks, Powerhouse Park offers easy beach access, a playground area, and a volleyball court.

      SWAMI’S STATE BEACH

      West of the magnificent Self-Realization Fellowship Temple and Meditation Gardens in Encinitas, this beach draws surfers and yogis in with its Zen vibes, while others treat the steep staircase leading down to the beach as a workout, with a rewarding view of sea cliffs waiting at the bottom. At low tide, shells and other sea creatures are left behind for beachcombers to easily discover.

      FLETCHER COVE BEACH PARK

      Nestled in the heart of Solana Beach, Fletcher Cove Beach Park doubles as a recreational park and beach access area. Here you’ll find a basketball court, playground, lawn area, and picnic tables. A paved ramp leads down to the crescent-shape beach that’s flanked by cliffs on both sides. For sweeping views of the ocean, position yourself at one of the lookouts outfitted with seating and/or binoculars—yup, binoculars are waiting for you.

      BEACON’S BEACH

      Follow the windy dirt path laden with switchbacks down to find Beacon’s Beach in Encinitas, a well-known beach spot and favorite locals’ hangout; on maps it may be labeled Leucadia State Beach. Since its entrance is hidden below sea cliffs on a one-way residential street, Beacon’s Beach has an air of exclusivity. With plenty of space to spread out here, you won’t have to infringe on sun-worshipping neighbors.

      MOONLIGHT STATE BEACH

      Fans of active beach days should head to this Encinitas beach. Volleyball courts, picnic tables, and playgrounds line the beach, with a concession stand, equipment rentals, and free Sunday concerts in high season.

      10 Best Celebrity Hangouts in Los Angeles

      THE HOLLYWOOD ROOSEVELT

      The Hollywood Roosevelt is one of L.A.’s oldest hotels, and has hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries in its Spanish Colonial Revival rooms. Set in the heart of Hollywood, it offers a convenient location as well as a number of watering holes, including Tropicana Bar next to the pool.

      THE GROVE

      L.A. may be strewn with outdoor malls, but it’s The Grove that gets the highest billing, not just for its collection of mid- to high-end shops and restaurants, but also for its next-door neighbor, the Farmers Market. It’s also one of the best places to see stars like Lena Headey, Zendaya, and Mario Lopez.

      CAFÉ GRATITUDE LARCHMONT

      Round out your L.A. vacation with a plant-based meal at local chain Café Gratitude. For a celeb sighting, head to their Larchmont Boulevard location where Jake Gyllenhaal and Beyoncé obligingly declare what they’re grateful for before digging in.

      PINZ BOWLING CENTER

      For a bit of family-friendly fun, head to Pinz in Studio City, where bowling is more than just a game, it’s also a neon- and black-light party. Celebrities often pop in here for bowling night, from A-listers like Vin Diesel and Jessica Alba to performers like Bruno Mars and Missy Elliott.

      NOBU MALIBU

      Nobu is a known A-list hot spot that’s hosted everyone from Keanu Reeves to Kaia Gerber. Even if you don’t spot a star, it’s still worth the trip for its impeccable sushi and sashimi. Be warned, though: mingling with A-listers doesn’t come cheap.

      TOSCANA

      Upscale Brentwood is home to many celebrities, and rustic trattoria Toscana is one of their neighborhood haunts. It may not be L.A.’s best Italian restaurant—for that, check out Osteria Mozza—but for star sightings, it’s your best bet.

      CHATEAU MARMONT

      The Chateau Marmont is possibly L.A.’s best-known celebrity haunt. Come for brunch in the garden terrace or drop in at night for the Hollywood-inspired cocktails. Photos are not allowed.

      CATCH

      Secure a table at the flora-cluttered Catch in West Hollywood and rub elbows with the likes of David Beckham and the Jenner-Kardashian clan. This eatery is as L.A. as you can get, with its alfresco setting, vegan and gluten-free offerings, and locally and sustainably grown ingredients.

      CRAIG’S

      A West Hollywood dining staple, Craig’s plain facade provides a safe haven for the movie industry’s most important names and well-known faces like John Legend and Chrissy Teigen. Just keep in mind this joint is always busy, so you might not even get a table. It’s a good thing the food is worth the effort.

      RUNYON CANYON

      Of L.A.’s many beautiful hikes, Runyon Canyon gets the biggest share of celebrity regulars, probably because it’s tucked between the Hollywood Hills, where many stars live, and the Sunset Strip. It’s also a great place to get some fresh air and take panoramic sunset photos.

      What to Read and Watch

      CHINATOWN

      In this 1974 film noir, a young private eye (Jack Nicholson) in Depression-era Los Angeles gets in over his head with a client’s case involving her husband’s death. It’s a tale of corruption and intrigue that incorporates fictionalized details of L.A.’s historic water wars.

      FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH

      Many don’t know that this humorous, coming-of-age, cult classic was based on the journalistic efforts of Rolling Stone prodigy Cameron Crowe. He spent a year undercover at San Diego’s Clairemont High School, and the resulting book (1981) and movie (1982) are accounts of this wild, adolescent period and its characters.

      MULHOLLAND DRIVE

      Surreal, psychotic, and artsy, David Lynch’s 2001 film paints L.A. as a city of creepy fun house turns and blurs the lines between reality and cuts from a movie. Such dichotomies also exist in the two main characters: Betty, the blond Midwesterner fresh to L.A., and Rita, an amnesiac shrouded in darkness and mystery.

      SUNSET BOULEVARD

      This classic, 1950s, Billy Wilder movie offers a wild, entertaining glimpse at the film business and its eccentric characters. A has-been star and a young screenwriter hope to use each other in some way. But things get complicated, demonstrating that what happens behind the scenes in Hollywood isn’t the same as what appears on the big screen.

      ASK THE DUST BY JOHN FANTE

      During the Great Depression, an Italian American writer lives in a seedy Los Angeles hotel and struggles with poverty, love, and creativity. Downtown is rendered well, and the character’s relationship with Los Angeles is nuanced.

      THE GANGSTER WE ARE ALL LOOKING FOR BY LE THI DIEM THUY

      The characters of this novel, based on the author’s own childhood, are Vietnamese refugees in the late ’70s, adjusting to life in crowded bungalows and apartments of Normal Heights, Linda Vista, and east San Diego.

      HAM ON RYE BY CHARLES BUKOWSKI

      America’s favorite degenerate poet writes an off-the-cuff novel about growing up in L.A. during the mid-20th century as the child of German immigrants. Told through Henry Chinaski, the author’s alter ego and antihero, the book offers gritty takes on everything from family violence, alcoholism, and school-yard bullying to Model Ts and orange trees.

      THE HOUSE OF BROKEN ANGELS BY LUIS ALBERTO AURREA

      Focusing on three generations of a Mexican-American family, with a history in the California Territories since World War I, this robust, happy novel teems with big personalities and vivid characters.

      THE REVOLT OF THE COCKROACH PEOPLE BY OSCAR ZETA ACOSTA

      Grounded in real events, this story outlines aspects of east Los Angeles’s Chicano movement through protests, marches, and court cases. The main protagonist is based on the fascinating author, an activist, lawyer/politician, and key player in the movement.

      Chapter 2: TRAVEL SMART

      Know Before You Go

      To help you prepare for a visit to the vast, diverse, unique state of California, below are tips about driving, destinations, the weather, saving money at restaurants and hotels, wildlife, cannabis tourism, and things to see and do that might save you time or money or increase peace of mind.

      ROAD TRIPS TAKE TIME

      California has some of the most scenic drives in the world. It’s also the third-largest state behind Alaska and Texas and, in square miles, is similar in size to Sweden, Japan, or Paraguay. So, if you want to see all its beaches, deserts, mountains, and forests, you’ll need a car—and, perhaps, a bit of patience.

      A road trip through even half of the state takes several hours in the best of traffic (frequently not the case), and this doesn’t count contending with winding, mountainous terrain, or coastal fog. Rule of thumb: factoring in an extra 20% or 25% more time than the GPS driving estimate lessens the chance you’ll miss events or connections. Who knows? You might be surprised and arrive early—or at least on time.

      DON’T LET GPS LEAD YOU ASTRAY

      Your GPS is Wrong: Turn Around, warns a sign on a steep dead-end road that some smartphone mapping apps mistake for a small mountain town’s main drag below. Although GPS is generally reliable in cities and suburbs, it’s less so in coastal, mountain, and desert areas, including some national and state parks. In addition to referencing the maps in this book, back yourself up with old-school atlases or fold-out paper maps.

      If you plot out a trip and begin navigation while reception is good, you should still receive turning directions even if you move out of range. If you’re already out of range when initiating a search, you won’t be able to access route information.

      THE COAST CAN BE FOGGY IN SUNNY CA

      California rightfully earns its sunny reputation: on average, the sun shines more than two-thirds of the year in most regions, but with deserts, beaches, mountains, and forests, you should prepare for wide variations in temperature and conditions. This is especially true along the coast and at higher altitudes, where it’s best to dress in layers year-round. On a day when it’s 85° or 95° inland, the temperature along the coast can be 55° and windy.

      In July and August, hot inland temperatures often cause cooler Pacific Ocean air—in the form of fog—to blanket areas nearest the shore. As a rule along the coast: the farther south you go, the drier and hotter the weather tends to be. The farther north you go, the cooler and wetter you’ll likely find it.

      WINE COUNTRY IS MORE THAN NAPA AND SONOMA

      Modern California wine making got its start in Sonoma County, and Napa Valley wines raised the state’s profile worldwide, but with about 4,800 bonded wineries from the Oregon border to San Diego County—the world’s fourth-largest producer, making 80-plus percent of U.S. wines—the whole state’s pretty much Wine Country. Tasting rooms abound, even in unlikely places.

      The state’s most-planted red-wine grapes, in order, are Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, and Merlot. Among the whites, Chardonnay is by far the most grown, with French Colombard, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris the runners-up.

      NO NEED TO BREAK THE BANK

      Away from coastal California or the eastern mountains on summer weekends or during ski season, much of California is affordable. In some cases, it’s even a bargain. Tasting fees in lesser-known wine regions, for example, are at least half the price of those in high-profile ones, and some wineries even provide sips for free. In many inland areas, except for the fanciest bed-and-breakfasts, room rates trend lower than by the shore.

      AVOIDING STICKER SHOCK AT RESTAURANTS

      Even if you’re not dining at temples of haute cuisine, eating out in California can induce sticker shock. There are several ways to avoid this. Have the day’s fancy meal at brunch or lunch, when prices tend to be lower. Happy hour, when a restaurant might serve a signature appetizer or smaller version of a famous plate at a lower price, is another option. Even small towns in the interior are likely to have a purveyor or two of gourmet food to go, making picnicking in a park or eating back at your lodging a viable strategy.

      AVOIDING STICKER SHOCK AT HOTELS

      California’s hotels, inns, and resorts are the most expensive from late spring to early fall. The easiest way to avoid sticker shock is to come during winter when prices are the least expensive except at ski resorts and a few desert hot spots. Year-round, you can save money by traveling midweek, when rates tend to drop. Visiting during the shoulder seasons of mid-to-late spring and mid-to-late fall, when the weather can be nice and the crowds less formidable, can also save you money.

      Many travelers cut costs by booking a big-city business hotel on the weekend, when rates trend lower (with Sunday often the cheapest night of the week at such places). Conversely, weekend prices at beach or countryside resorts are generally high but sometimes drop midweek.

      MAKERS AND MUSEUMS

      The state’s early-21st-century DIY types birthed what’s come to be known as the maker movement, and throughout California you’ll see evidence of this artisanal activity. Blue jeans, lasers, Apple computers, sourdough bread, Popsicles, McDonald’s, Barbie Dolls, Hollywood movie glamour, and television all emerged from California. Nearly 3,000 museums (more than any other state) honor such accomplishments and more—if you can think of it, a museum here probably celebrates it.

      PLAY BALL

      Because the weather is basically great year-round, there’s a dynamic sports culture in the Golden State. Spectacular (and often free) recreation areas and parks offer opportunities for surfing, skiing, hiking, and biking, among other activities.

      If you’re more into spectating, California supports more professional sports teams than any other state, including five MLB, four NBA (plus one WNBA), three NFL and NHL franchises, and several (men’s and women’s) soccer squads. You can witness athletic greatness at the highest levels any day of the week.

      CALL OF THE WILDLIFE

      Off the coast, creatures from gray and humpback whales to blue whales and orcas might come into view, along with sea lions, elephant seals, dolphins, and the occasional shark. Inland forests contain black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, beavers, and foxes. The desert supplies no end of reptiles, and the entire state is a birder’s paradise.

      Wild animals generally avoid interacting with humans, but contact is not unheard of. Most state and national parks post advice about steering clear of potentially dangerous encounters and what to do if you find yourself in one.

      POT IS LEGAL, BUT…

      Marijuana is legal in California for medical and recreational purposes. If you’re 21 (or 18 with a doctor’s order) and have proof of age or medical status, you can acquire and use marijuana, albeit not always in public. The California Cannabis Portal website maintains a searchable database (w search.cannabis.ca.gov/retailers) of licensed dispensaries, where cannabis might come as flowers, edibles, and concentrates, among other things. The Cannabis Travel Association (w cannabistravelassociation.org) promotes safe and responsible cannabis tourism and provides general information.

      Getting Here and Around

      d Air

      Most national and many international airlines fly to California. Flying time to the state is about 6½ hours from New York and 4¾ hours from Chicago. Travel from London to either Los Angeles or San Francisco is 11½ hours and from Sydney approximately 14 hours. Flying between San Francisco and Los Angeles takes about 90 minutes.

      j Bus

      Greyhound is the primary bus carrier in California. Regional bus service is available in metropolitan areas.

      k Car

      A car is essential in most of California, the exceptions being parts of its largest cities, where it can be more convenient to use public transportation, taxis, or ride-sharing services. Two main north–south routes run through California: I–5 through the middle of the state, and U.S. 101, a parallel route closer to the coast. Slower but more scenic is Highway 1, which winds along much of the coast.

      The state’s main east–west routes are I–8, I–10, and I–15 (in the south) and I–80 (in the north). Much of California is mountainous, and you may encounter winding roads and steep mountain grades.

      q Train

      Amtrak provides rail service within California. On some trips, passengers board motor coaches part of the way.

      Essentials

      a Activities

      Athletic Californians often boast that it’s possible to surf in the morning and ski in the afternoon (or vice versa) in the Golden State. With thousands of hiking, biking, and horse-riding trails and hundreds of lakes, rivers, and streams for fishing, swimming, and boating—not to mention sandy coastal strands for sunning and surfing and other beaches with dunes or rocks to explore—there’s no shortage of outdoor fun to be had. One challenge on many a hiker’s bucket list is the Pacific Crest Trail, which travels the length of the state. The National Park Service operates numerous parks and sites in California, and the state park system is robust. If you’re interested in Native American heritage, Visit California’s website (w visitcalifornia.com/native) has a section devoted to indigenous cultural travel.

      r Dining

      California has led the pack in bringing natural and organic foods to the forefront of American dining. Though rooted in European cuisine, California cooking sometimes has strong Asian and Latin influences. Wherever you go, you’re likely to find that dishes are made with fresh produce and other local ingredients.

      The restaurants we list are the cream of the crop in each price category. F Restaurant reviews have been shortened. For full information, visit Fodors.com. For price information, see the Planning sections in each chapter.

      DISCOUNTS AND DEALS

      The better grocery and specialty-food stores have grab-and-go sections, with prepared foods on par with restaurant cooking, perfect for picnicking.

      MEALS AND MEALTIMES

      Lunch is typically served from 11 or 11:30 to 2:30 or 3, with dinner service starting at 5 or 5:30 and lasting until 9 or later. Restaurants that serve breakfast usually open by 7, sometimes earlier, with some serving breakfast through the lunch hour. Most weekend brunches start at 10 or 11 and go at least until 2.

      PAYING

      Most restaurants take credit cards. Some accept cash, but others operate cashless. In most establishments tipping is the norm, but some include the service in the menu price or add it to the bill. F For guidelines on tipping see Money, below.

      RESERVATIONS AND DRESS

      It’s a good idea to make a reservation when possible. Where reservations are indicated as essential, book a week or more ahead in summer and early fall. Large parties should always call ahead to check the reservations policy. Except as noted in individual listings, dress is informal.

      z Health/Safety

      If you have a medical condition that may require emergency treatment, be aware that many rural and mountain communities have only daytime clinics, not hospitals with 24-hour emergency rooms. Take the usual precautions to protect your person and belongings. In large cities, ask at your lodging about areas to avoid, and lock valuables in a hotel safe when not using them. Car break-ins are common in some larger cities, but it’s always a good idea to remove valuables from your car or at least keep them out of sight.

      COVID-19

      Most travel restrictions, including vaccination and masking requirements, have been lifted across the United States except in health-care facilities and nursing homes. Some travelers may still wish to wear a mask in confined spaces, including on airplanes, on public transportation, and at large indoor gatherings, but that is increasingly a personal choice. Be aware that some local mandates still exist and should be followed.

      THE OUTDOORS

      At beaches, heed warnings about high surf and deadly rogue waves, and don’t fly within 24 hours of scuba diving. When hiking, stay on trails, and heed all warning signs about loose cliffs, predatory animals, and poison ivy or oak.

      Before heading into remote areas, let someone know your trip route, destination, and estimated time and date of return. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and equipped with a first-aid kit, snacks, extra water, jack, spare tire, tools, and a towrope or chain. Mind your gas gauge, keeping the needle above half if possible and stopping to top off the tank whenever you can.

      In arid regions, stay on main roads, and watch out for wildlife, horses, and cattle. Don’t enter mine tunnels or shafts. Not only can such structures be unstable, but they might also have hidden dangers such as pockets of bad air. Be mindful of sudden rainstorms, when floodwaters can cover or wash away roads and quickly fill up dry riverbeds and canyons. Never place your hands or feet where you can’t see them: rattlesnakes, scorpions, and black widow spiders may be hiding there.

      Sunscreen and hats are musts, and layered clothing is best as desert temperatures can fluctuate greatly between dawn and dusk. Drink at least a gallon of water a day (three gallons if you’re hiking or otherwise exerting yourself). If you have a headache or feel dizzy or nauseous, you could be suffering from dehydration. Get out of the sun immediately, dampen your clothing to lower your body temperature, and drink plenty of water.

      Although you might not feel thirsty in cooler, mountain climes, it’s important to stay hydrated (drinking at least a quart of water during activities) at high altitudes, where the air is thinner, causing you to breathe more heavily. Always bring a fold-up rain poncho to keep you dry and prevent hypothermia. Wear long pants, a hat, and sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots with soles that grip rock. If you’re going into the backcountry, bring a signaling device (such as a mirror), emergency whistle, compass, map, energy bars, and water purifier.

      h Lodging

      California has inns, motels, hotels, and specialty accommodations to suit every traveler’s fancy and finances. Retro motels recalling 1950s roadside culture but with 21st-century amenities are a popular trend, but you’ll also see traditional motels and hotels, along with luxury resorts and boutique properties.

      The state’s more than 1,000 bed-and-breakfasts offer everything from simple home-stay options to lavish lodgings in historic hotels or homes. The California Association of Boutique and Breakfast Inns represents more than 200 member properties that you can locate and book through its website. In addition, you’ll find listings for Airbnb and similar rentals throughout California.

      The lodgings we review are the top choices in each price category. We don’t specify whether the facilities cost extra; when pricing accommodations, ask what’s included and what costs extra. F For price information, see the Planning sections in each chapter. Hotels reviews have been shortened. For full information, visit Fodors.com.

      CHILDREN

      Most hotels allow children under a certain age to stay in their parents’ room at no extra charge, but others charge for them as additional adults; find out the cutoff age for discounts. Conversely, some accommodations aren’t suitable for children, so check before you book.

      RESERVATIONS AND CANCELLATIONS

      Reservations are a good idea throughout the year, especially in summer. On weekends at smaller lodgings, minimum-stay requirements of two or three nights are common, though some places are flexible about this in winter.

      Some properties allow you to cancel without a penalty—even if you prepaid to secure a discounted rate—if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Others require you to cancel a week in advance or penalize you the cost of one night. Small inns and B&Bs are most likely to require you to cancel far in advance.

      1 Money

      On the coast, you’ll pay top dollar for everything from gas and food to lodging and attractions. Aside from desert and ski resorts, inland prices tend to be lower.

      In terms of gratuities, obviously the amount you tip (or if you tip at all) is a matter of personal preference. Remember, though, that in California, as in the rest of the United States, many people who work in the service industry rely on tips to earn a living wage. The degree and quality of service also come into play when considering what to tip.

      TAXES

      Depending on the city or county, you’ll pay from 7.25% to 10.75% in sales tax, with larger urban areas toward the higher end. Exceptions include grocery-store food items and some takeout. Hotel taxes vary from 4% to 15%.

      g Packing

      The California lifestyle emphasizes casual wear, and with the generally mild climate you needn’t worry about packing cold-weather clothing unless you’re going into mountainous areas. Jeans, walking shorts, and T-shirts are acceptable in most situations. Few restaurants require men to wear a jacket or tie, though a collared shirt is the norm at upscale establishments.

      Summer evenings can be cool, especially near the coast, where fog often rolls in. Always pack a sweater or light jacket. If you’re headed to state or national parks, packing binoculars, clothes that layer, long pants and long-sleeve shirts, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat is wise. Pick up insect repellent, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit once in-state.

      c When to Go

      Expect high summer heat in the desert areas and low winter temperatures in the Sierra Nevada and other inland mountain ranges.

      HIGH SEASON $$$–$$$$

      High season lasts from late May through early September (a little later in wine regions and well into winter in desert resorts and ski areas). Expect higher hotel occupancy rates and prices.

      LOW SEASON $$

      From December to March, tourist activity slows. Except in the mountainous areas, which may see snowfall and an influx of skiers, winters here are mild, and hotels are cheaper.

      VALUE SEASON $$–$$$

      From April to late May and from late September to mid-November the weather is pleasant and hotel prices are reasonable.

      Contacts

      d Air

      AIRLINES

      CONTACTS Air Canada. P 888/247–2262 w www.aircanada.com. Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air. P 800/252–7522 w www.alaskaair.com. American Airlines. P 800/433–7300 w www.aa.com. Delta Airlines. P 800/221–1212 for U.S. reservations, 800/241–4141 for international reservations w www.delta.com. Frontier Airlines. P 801/401–9000 w www.flyfrontier.com. JetBlue. P 800/538–2583 w www.jetblue.com. Southwest Airlines. P 800/435–9792 w www.southwest.com. United Airlines. P 800/864–8331 w www.united.com.

      AIRLINE SECURITY ISSUES

      CONTACTS Transportation Security Administration. (TSA). P 866/289–9673 w www.tsa.gov.

      AIRPORTS

      Hollywood Burbank Airport. P 818/840–8840 w www.hollywoodburbankairport.com. John Wayne Airport, Orange County. P 949/252–5200 w www.ocair.com. Long Beach Airport. P 562/570–2600 w www.lgb.org.

      Los Angeles International Airport. P 855/463–5252 w www.flylax.com. Ontario International Airport. P 909/544–5300 w www.flyontario.com. San Diego International Airport. P 619/400–2400 w www.san.org.

      j Bus

      CONTACTS Greyhound. P 800/231–2222 w www.greyhound.com.

      k Car

      ASSISTANCE American Automobile Association. (AAA). P 800/222–4357 w www.aaa.com.

      INFORMATION Caltrans Current Highway Conditions. P 800/427–7623 w quickmap.dot.ca.gov. 511 Traffic/Transit Alerts. P 511.

      MAJOR RENTAL AGENCIES Alamo. P 800/462–5266 w www.alamo.com. Avis. P 800/633–3469 w www.avis.com. Budget. P 800/218–7992 w www.budget.com. Hertz. P 800/654–3131 w www.hertz.com.

      National Car Rental. P 844/382–6875 w www.nationalcar.com.

      SPECIALTY CAR AGENCIES Enterprise Exotic Car Rentals. P 866/458–9227 w www.enterprise.com.

      h Lodging

      CONTACTS California Association of Boutique and Breakfast Inns. (CABBI). P 800/373–9251 w www.cabbi.com.

      q Train

      CONTACTS Amtrak. P 800/872–7245 w www.amtrak.com.

      Chapter 3: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S BEST ROAD TRIPS

      A California visit wouldn’t be complete without taking a spin through the state’s spectacular scenery. However, adding a road trip to your itinerary is not just a romantic idea: it’s often a practical one, too—perhaps linking one urban area with another, say, or sampling some of this massive state’s remote areas. Whether you have just a few days or longer to spare, these itineraries will help you hit the road.

      SoCal for Kids and the Young at Heart, 7 Days

      Southern California offers many opportunities to entertain the kids and the young at heart beyond the Magic Kingdom, this trip’s last stop. San Diego’s LEGOLAND is a blast for kids 12 and under, and the city’s diverse attractions include a water park, the zoo, and several historic districts. Oh yes, and well-groomed La Jolla and other beach towns, too. If you can, fly into San Diego and out of Los Angeles to save time and maybe money.

      DAYS 1–2: LEGOLAND

      LEGOLAND’s hotels are a 35-min drive from the airport.

      Arrive at San Diego International Airport, pick up your rental car, and settle in at the LEGOLAND Hotel or the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa, perhaps taking a dip in the pool. In the late afternoon, drive south along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) past popular San Diego County surfing beaches. Stop in Solana Beach or Del Mar for a sunset cocktail, perhaps staying for dinner.

      Getting an early start for an action-packed day at LEGOLAND is a breeze because both hotels offer direct access to the park. LEGOLAND has a water park, an aquarium, and LEGO-based rides, shows, and roller coasters. Little ones can live out their fairy-tale fantasies, and bigger ones can spend all day on waterslides, shooting water pistols, driving boats, or water fighting with pirates.

      DAY 3: DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO

      Downtown is 35 mins from Carlsbad.

      Check out of your LEGOLAND hotel in the late morning, taking the freeway south 35 minutes to Downtown San Diego. It’ll probably be too early to check in (do it when convenient later in the afternoon), but park your car at your hotel and drop off your bags. Then proceed straight to the city’s nautical heart, exploring the restored ships of the Maritime Museum and walking south along the waterfront. Victorian buildings—and plenty of other tourists—surround you on a stroll inland a few blocks to Gaslamp Quarter, where you can grab a happy-hour cocktail or mocktail before dining close to your hotel.

      DAY 4: SEA WORLD, OLD TOWN, AND LA JOLLA

      SeaWorld is 15 mins from Downtown; Old Town is 10 mins from SeaWorld; La Jolla is 20 mins from Old Town.

      Two commercial and touristy sights are on the agenda, with a sunset cocktail the day’s-end reward. With its walk-through shark tanks, SeaWorld delivers a ton of fun if you surrender to the experience. Also touristy, but with genuine historical significance, Old Town drips with Mexican and early Californian heritage. Soak it up in the plaza at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, then browse the stalls and shops at Fiesta de Reyes and along San Diego Avenue. As the day winds down, make your way to La Jolla Cove. At the Children’s Pool, look at, but don’t go in the water, which is likely to be filled with barking seals. Have a sunset cocktail in La Jolla and dine there or Downtown.

      DAY 5: SAN DIEGO ZOO

      10 mins by car from Downtown San Diego.

      Malayan tapirs in a faux-Asian rain forest, polar bears in an imitation Arctic, and orangutans and siamangs swinging through the trees—the San Diego Zoo maintains a vast and varied collection of creatures in a world-renowned facility comprised of meticulously designed habitats. Come early, and wear comfy shoes. If you have time, explore a little of Balboa Park, which contains the zoo. Have dinner in the Hillcrest neighborhood near the park, or dine Downtown.

      DAYS 6–7: DISNEYLAND

      90 mins by car from San Diego to Disneyland.

      As early as you can get moving, hop onto I–5 and drive north. By the time you reach San Clemente, you’ll be in Orange County (aka the O.C.). In less than an hour from there, you’ll be in Disneyland! Skirt the lines at the box office with advance-purchased tickets in hand, and storm the gates of the Magic Kingdom. You can cram the highlights into a single day, but if you get a two-day ticket and stay the night, you can see the end-of-day parade and visit Downtown Disney before heading south. The Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is a top choice for lodging within the Disney Resort.

      Hooray for Hollywood, 3 Days

      If you are a movie fan, there’s no better place to see it all than L.A. Keep your eyes peeled: you never know when you might spot a celebrity.

      DAY 1: LOS ANGELES

      Because of the time change, East Coast visitors flying into LAX often arrive well before noon. As soon as you land, make like a local, and hit the freeway to your hotel, dropping off your luggage even if your room isn’t ready (it’s safer). Even if L.A.’s top-notch art, history, and science museums don’t tempt you, the mélange of art deco, Beaux Arts, and futuristic architecture begs at least a drive-by.

      Wilshire Boulevard heading east from Santa Monica cuts through a historical and cultural cross section of the city. Two stellar sights on Wilshire’s Miracle Mile are the encyclopedic Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the fossil-filled La Brea Tar Pits. Come evening, the open-air Original Farmers Market and its many eateries hum.

      DAY 2: HOLLYWOOD AND THE MOVIE STUDIOS

      Avoid driving to the studios during rush hr. Studio tours vary in length—plan at least a half day for the excursion.

      Every L.A. tourist should experience at least one San Fernando Valley studio tour. For fun, choose the special-effects theme park at Universal Studios Hollywood; for the nitty-gritty, choose Warner Bros. Studios. Nostalgic musts in Hollywood itself include the Hollywood Walk of Fame along Hollywood Boulevard and the celebrity footprints cast in concrete outside Grauman’s Chinese Theatre (now known as the TCL Chinese Theater). When evening arrives, the Hollywood scene includes a bevy of trendy restaurants and nightclubs.

      DAY 3: THE GETTY, SANTA MONICA, VENICE, BEVERLY HILLS

      15–20 mins by car between destinations, but considerably longer in traffic.

      The Getty Center’s pavilion architecture, hilltop gardens, and frame-worthy L.A. views make it a dazzling destination—and that’s before you experience the Brentwood museum’s extensive art collection. From here, descend to the sea via Santa Monica Boulevard for a late lunch along the Third Street Promenade, followed by a ride on the historic Santa Monica Pier Carousel.

      The buff and the bizarre meet at Venice Beach’s Ocean Front Walk, an extension of Santa Monica’s same-named boardwalk—strap on some back-in-vogue in-line skates if you want to join them.

      Over in Beverly Hills, the Rodeo Drive shopping district specializes in exhibitionism with a hefty price tag, but voyeurs are still welcome. Have dinner in Beverly Hills or West Hollywood.

      Palm Springs and the Desert, 5 Days

      Many visitors consider the Palm Springs area pure paradise, and not just for the opportunity to get a good tan or play golf on championship courses. Expect fabulous and funky spas, a dog-friendly atmosphere, and sparkling stars at night.

      DAY 1: ARRIVE AT PALM SPRINGS

      Just over 2 hrs by car from LAX, without traffic.

      Somehow in harmony with the harsh environment, mid-century-modern homes and businesses with clean, low-slung lines define the Palm Springs style. Although the desert cities—Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Indio, and La Quinta—comprise a trendy destination with sumptuous hotels, multicultural cuisine, abundant nightlife, and plenty of culture, a quiet atmosphere prevails. Fans of Palm Springs’ legendary architecture won’t want to miss the home tours, lectures, and other events at the annual Modernism Week held each February or the smaller fall preview event in October. If your visit doesn’t coincide with these happenings, swing by the Palm Springs Visitor’s Center for information on self-guided architecture tours.

      The city seems far away when you hike in hushed Tahquitz or Indian Canyon; cliffs and palm trees shelter rock art, irrigation works, and other remnants of Agua Caliente culture. If your boots aren’t made for walking, you can always practice your golf game or indulge in spa treatments at an area resort instead. Embrace the Palm Springs vibe, and park yourself at the modern-chic Kimpton The Rowan Palm Springs Hotel or the legendary Parker Palm Springs. Alternatively, base yourself at the desert oasis, La Quinta Resort & Club, about 40 minutes from downtown Palm Springs.

      DAY 2: EXPLORE PALM SPRINGS

      The Aerial Tram is 15 mins by car from central Palm Springs. Plan at least a half day for the excursion.

      If riding a tram up an 8,516-foot mountain for a stroll or even a snowball fight above the desert sounds like fun, then show up at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway before the first morning tram leaves (later, the line can get discouragingly long). Dress in layers, and wear decent footwear as it can be significantly colder at the top. Afterward, stroll through the Palm Springs Art Museum, with its shimmering display of contemporary studio glass, array of Native American baskets, and significant 20th-century sculptures by Henry Moore and others. After all that walking you may be ready for an early dinner. Nearly every restaurant in Palm Springs offers a happy hour, during which you can sip a cocktail and nosh on a light entrée, usually for half price.

      DAY 3: JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

      1 hr by car from Palm Springs.

      Joshua Tree is among the most accessible of the national parks. You can see most of it in a day, entering the park at the town of Joshua Tree, exploring sites along Park Boulevard, and exiting at Twentynine Palms. With the signature trees, piles of rocks, glorious spring wildflowers, starlit skies, and colorful pioneer history, the experience is more like the Wild West than Sahara dunes. Whether planning to take a day hike or a scenic drive, load up on drinking water before entering the park.

      DAY 4: INDIO AND THE SALTON SEA

      Indio is about 30 mins by car from Palm Springs; the Salton Sea is 40 mins from Indio.

      Head southeast from Palm Springs via I-10 to Indio, the state’s date-growing capital and home to the famous Coachella music festival every April. En route, stop in the Coachella Valley Preserve for a glimpse of the desert before development. The Shield’s Date Garden & Café, just 4 miles west of Indio on Highway 111, is a great place to grab a bite and sample dates, perhaps in the form of shakes, pancakes—even burgers.

      The Salton Sea, about 40 miles southeast of Indio via Highway 86S, is one of the largest inland seas on Earth. Formed by the flooding of the Colorado River in 1905, it attracts thousands of migrating birds and bird-watchers every fall.

      DAY 5: RETURN TO L.A.

      LAX is just over 2 hrs by car from Palm Springs without traffic, but the drive often takes significantly more time.

      If you intend to depart from LAX, plan for a full day of driving from the desert to the airport. Be prepared for heavy traffic at any time of day or night. If possible, fly out of Palm Springs International Airport or Ontario International Airport instead.

      Southern PCH: Sand, Surf, and Sun, 4 Days

      This tour along the southern section of the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a beach vacation on wheels, taking in the highlights of the Southern California coast and its surfer-chic vibe. If the drive feels like something out of a movie, that’s because it likely is—this is the California of Hollywood legend. And this segment is only the warm-up: after you get to Santa Barbara, you can keep heading north as far up the coast as time permits. Roll the top down on the convertible and let the adventure begin.

      DAY 1: LAGUNA BEACH TO NEWPORT BEACH

      1 hr by car.

      Easily accessed off I–5, the PCH begins near Dana Point, a town famous for its harbor and whale-watching excursions, but you can just as easily start 10 miles north in Laguna Beach. Browse the art galleries, and enjoy lunch in the charming downtown before or after walking along the Pacific. Then head north a few miles to Crystal Cove State Park. When the tide’s low, this is a wonderful spot for tide pooling. Don’t miss the historic beach cottages dating as far back as 1935.

      From the park, continue north a few more miles to Newport Beach. The affluent coastal cities of Orange County (aka the O.C.) are familiar to many thanks to Arrested Development, The Real

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