Here Are 5 Things to Do in the Golden State
A Californian vacation is unforgettable. Boasting perfectly sun-kissed beaches, natural landscapes and attractions which make drivers pull over to the side of the road to stare, California is a vibrant multicultural mix, and you will never tire of exploring here.
The following are 5 things to do in the Golden State.
Indulge in a Desert Vacation in Palm Springs
Palm Springs is California’s desert Oasis, and one of the best desert locations in the Golden State. With luxury hotels, ritzy restaurants, world-class golfing, and indulgent spas, desert escapes in Palm Springs are all about relaxation and some much needed “me time”.
Regardless of your budget, Palm Springs hotels know how to pamper their guests. Though for those who can leave the pool to explore the desert deeper, there are some fantastic opportunities for hiking and landscape photography too.
Walk Aboard the Queen Mary at Long Beach
The Queen Mary is a world-class 1936 ocean liner which is now a floating museum and hotel permanently docked at Long Beach. Visitors can stay overnight in plush staterooms authentic to the ships original design, and a diverse range of attractions and museum exhibits are open to the public for those travelers who only choose to step aboard for the day.
Stepping aboard the Queen Mary offers a unique glimpse into what transatlantic travel was like from 1930-1950; it is a unique opportunity to explore a restored luxury ship. She also offers fascinating historic tours, shops, spas, and even paranormal attractions; needless to say you won’t be bored when visiting the ship.
Visit the Sea Lions in Monterey
The Aquarium is one of the top attractions in Monterey, however there are much more authentic wildlife experiences waiting for you not too far away – dozens of sea lions who literally drape themselves all over the tide breakers around the block from the aquarium at the pier.
If the Monterey Aquarium is too expensive for you, this attraction is free. Walk towards the Coast Guard Pier which neighbors Reeside Access Beach Park. Handfuls of fully grown sea lions will be there on the rocks along with their pups, and you may even spot the occasional pelican too.
Diverse Eating in San Jose
California has one of the most diverse food scenes when it comes to the United States, for the most ethnically diverse range of food on offer travelers should head to San Jose.
Chez Sovan is known for its excellent Cambodian food, and the E & O Trading Company offers a fusion of Thai, Malaysian and Vietnamese. Menara Moroccan Restaurant is your go to for honeyed lamb, b’stilla or seasoned hare, and Bella Mia is the best in town for Italian cuisine.
Walk the Golden Gate Bridge
Visiting the famous Golden Gate Bridge is a great say trip from South San Fransisco is on almost every Californian bucket list – you can’t claim to have visited the Golden State without having stopped to see it.
For a unique perspective of the bridge make sure you carve out some time to walk across it. There is a pedestrian walkway and parking lots at South Vista Point.