15 Joyful Things to Do in Japantown, San Francisco

The microneighborhood of San Francisco’s Japantown may be just a few square blocks, but it packs a lot into a small amount of space. Also called Nihonmachi, Japantown consists of a few blocks all centered around the Japantown Peace Plaza. It may not be nearly as big as Chinatown, but you’d be surprised: there are quite … Read more 15 Joyful Things to Do in Japantown, San Francisco

13 Vibrant Things to Do in Venice Beach, Los Angeles

palm trees and graffiti on Venice Beach

Home to skate and surf culture, Venice Beach has long been a major destination for fans of experiencing the outdoors in an urban environment. Tucked in between Santa Monica and Marina del Rey, not only does Venice Beach have plenty to offer in the way of seaside outdoor activities, it’s also packed with oodles of other … Read more 13 Vibrant Things to Do in Venice Beach, Los Angeles

The 17 Most Instagrammable Places in Santa Barbara

Rows of palm trees, sparkling blue water, tiled stairways, succulents and plants everywhere you look, and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture: no wonder there are so many Instagrammable places in Santa Barbara! This charming seaside city nestled at the junction of California’s Central Coast and Southern California offers so many wonderful photo spots in Santa Barbara … Read more The 17 Most Instagrammable Places in Santa Barbara

10 Fun Mountain Biking Trails in Lake Tahoe for All Levels to Enjoy!

a person mountain biking in lake tahoe

Sitting right on top of the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is known for its clear water and the endless outdoor activities it provides in all seasons, from water sports to skiing to hiking to camping. In the winter, the Tahoe area is known for its epic ski and snowboarding conditions, but don’t sleep on Tahoe … Read more 10 Fun Mountain Biking Trails in Lake Tahoe for All Levels to Enjoy!

Pfeiffer Beach: Exactly How to Visit the Purple Sand Beach in Big Sur

view of pfeiffer beach in the middle of the day with people walking on the purple sand beach

You’ve heard of black sand beaches, white sand beaches, glass beaches, and maybe pink sand beaches. But what about a purple sand beach? I’ll admit it: before visiting Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur, I was doubtful. A purple sand beach in California?  I was fully prepared for the purple to be just the subtlest hint … Read more Pfeiffer Beach: Exactly How to Visit the Purple Sand Beach in Big Sur

How to Hike to Pfeiffer Falls & Valley View in Big Sur, CA

Stunning rugged bluffs, towering redwoods, and brilliant cerulean sea: Big Sur is one of the most spectacular stretches of the California Coast. It’s the perfect place for a California road trip! While driving the stretch of Highway 1 that passes through Big Sur is a great way to appreciate the region’s beauty, there’s no substitute … Read more How to Hike to Pfeiffer Falls & Valley View in Big Sur, CA

Winter in California: 17 Phemenonal Winter Destinations

Festive decorations, snowy mountain peaks, and winter wildlife: contrary to popular belief, winter in California is a real thing. Depending on where you are in the state, winter may mean feet of snow or it may mean slightly cooler temperatures and chilly nights. It’s as varied as you get! I’ve gathered this list of awesome … Read more Winter in California: 17 Phemenonal Winter Destinations

33 Phenomenal Beaches in Northern California

beach in northern california

From rocky coasts to breathtaking sandy ones, Northern California’s beaches genuinely have it all! The rugged and beautiful Pacific coastline is unlike any other in the United States, and there’s a reason that people flock to it not only from all over the USA, but from all over the world. This post covers all of … Read more 33 Phenomenal Beaches in Northern California

The Perfect Weekend in Santa Barbara Itinerary for 2-3 Days of Fun

Santa Barbara is a wonderful beach town for a weekend getaway from Los Angeles or elsewhere in Southern or Central California!  We’re talking about beautiful beaches, nice sunny California weather without the crowds of LA, and a slower pace than the larger cities. With its beautiful Mediterranean climate and gorgeous European-inspired architecture, it’s no wonder … Read more The Perfect Weekend in Santa Barbara Itinerary for 2-3 Days of Fun

How to Get From San Francisco to Sonoma Wine Country

Symmetrical stone building with trees and plaza that is Sonoma's Town Hall

San Francisco is spoiled for choice when it comes to wine, with three wonderful and distinct Northern California wine countries within about an hour’s drive from the city! If you’re planning on visiting California wine country from the San Francisco Bay Area, you’ll have to narrow down if you want to visit Napa Valley or Sonoma … Read more How to Get From San Francisco to Sonoma Wine Country