When thinking of Santa Cruz, you likely imagine surfers or the boardwalk. If you go a little farther, you'll find a neighborhood with food, cottages, and charm.
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This scenic preserve offers a picturesque mix of open meadows, forested hills, and far-reaching views, making it a standout escape close to the city.
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Located in the former Presidio military base, this park offers restored wetlands, beach access to picnic and kitesurf, and views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
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For a great day trip from San Diego, head to this nearby city filled with interesting museums, tasty eateries and cafes, and a peaceful botanical garden.
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This route in Sacramento links the downtown waterfront to a calm lake, offering paved mileage, river views, and easy access points for walkers and cyclists.
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The Golden State has no shortage of amazing camping spots along its hundreds of miles of coastline. This state beach is one of the best for oceanside retreats.
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Looking to step back in time to the swinging '60s? There are still some places in the United States that have held on to their mid-century charm and nostalgia.
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This tent-only campground on a bluff above the ocean is located between the popular destinations of Santa Cruz and Monterey, with views of oceans and wildlife.
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See rare wildlife native to California, while supporting the animals' rehabilitation and rescue, at this unique and family-friendly zoo in Southern California.
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To walk or bike through beautiful redwood forests with the option to stay the night, head to this gorgeous state park between San Francisco and Santa Rosa.
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According to a Google report, these five stunning U.S. destinations, from a major national park to East Coast beaches, are trending for 2026.
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California's geography means that travelers can stumble upon unexpected nooks near major cities that feel worlds apart. This quaint town is one such place.
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California is home to diverse landscapes including beaches, mountains, and deserts. But the state's botanical gardens are a sight to behold.
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Just outside Los Angeles sits a city with outlet malls, mountain views, and lower costs than nearby beach hubs, along with trails, arenas, and parks.
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If you're looking for the Disney experience without the rides, here are five things you can do at Downtown Disney in Anaheim, California.
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The Surfliner is a trip worth taking — beyond the stunning ocean views and stress-free travel, it passes through many beautiful and historical coastal towns.
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This suburb south of Los Angeles is one of California's wealthiest communities in 2025, with small-town charm, a lively social scene, and a celebrity pedigree.
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This commuter coach bus provides a vital link across San Francisco Bay for commuters, but it also offers an inexpensive link with great scenery for visitors.
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If you are looking for a home base in NorCal's wine country, look no further than this underrated city with plenty to do downtown and lots of green parks.
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Many US residents feel a car is a necessity, but these cities have the right mix of walking, biking, and public transit that make vehicle ownership optional.
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Tucked away in Southern California, this planned suburb blends outdoor living, local culture, and everyday convenience without the coastal chaos.
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Before you set off on your next adventure to Joshua Tree National Park, learn which trails are the best ones to challenge yourself with, per hikers' feedback.
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If you're looking for fun activities along the California coast, this strange, kitschy, but very popular attraction might be just what the doctor ordered.
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Just outside of Sacramento's downtown area lies a diverse Californian community fueled by unique, socially conscious storefronts and eateries.
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California is home to some stunning national parks, and sandwiched in between two of the best is a small town that is more than worth the road trip stop.
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Thanks to a new program, non-fliers can now get past security at this San Francisco-area airport to see off a loved one or just enjoy the terminal.
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Not every vacation needs to cater to those who want a quiet and peaceful getaway. Sometimes you want to go somewhere that gets the adrenaline pumping.
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