Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

California's Oldest Mall Is A 'Shopping City' With Dozens Of Outlets And Great Restaurants

staff@islands.com (Nola Sarkisian-Miller) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

South of Los Angeles is California's oldest mall, featuring a wealth of shopping and dining opportunities, as well as a few unique entertainment options.

California's Peaceful Los Angeles Escape Offers Vibrant Birdwatching, Easy Trails, And Nearby Dining

staff@islands.com (Rachel-Jean Firchau) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 15:25:00 +0000

Near Los Angeles' busy international airport, you'll find a hidden oasis of wetlands and bird habitats with trails and guided tours for wildlife lovers.

The Most Affordable Town In California Is A Secret Retirement Haven Near Palm Springs

staff@islands.com (Sophie Dunne) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 12:45:00 +0000

The Golden State gets plenty of attention from travelers, but that doesn't mean there aren't quiet towns like this one that make for a rejuvenating stay.

California's Most Dog-Friendly Beach Is An Idyllic Sandy Stretch On The Pacific Coast Highway

staff@islands.com (Eva Johnstone) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 21:45:00 +0000

Beaches aren't just a great time for humans, so if your dogs want a little fun in the sun, too, there's a spot in California you can't miss.

Downtown Santa Cruz's Authentic Italian Deli Is Famous For Tiramisu And Handcrafted Sandwiches

staff@islands.com (Kristin Conard) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:00:00 +0000

This Italian deli has been a fixture of downtown Santa Cruz for decades. Here's what to know before you stop by this beloved local establishment.

Sacramento's Iconic Yellow Bridge Has A Beautiful Art Deco Design And Pedestrian Charm

staff@islands.com (Kristin Conard) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 18:00:00 +0000

In Sacramento, a historic river span stands out for its Art Deco style and walkable pathways, with skyline views and a glimpse of classic lift-bridge design.

California's Once-Thriving Military Base Is Now A Peaceful Escape Brimming With Trails And Stunning Scenery

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0000

This under-the-radar Central Coast getaway features wide-open spaces, multi-use trails, and rich ecosystems, ideal for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.

California's Historic City Near LA Has An Urban-Suburban Vibe With Shops, Restaurants, And Iconic Landmarks

staff@islands.com (Jonathan Houston) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Just outside Los Angeles, this evolving destination features major event venues, popular eateries, shopping areas, and access to nearby beaches.

California's 'Jewel Of The High Country' Is An Alpine Lake Tucked In Yosemite's Sierra Nevada Mountains

staff@islands.com (Joseph Richard Francis) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

This Yosemite lake, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is known as California's "Jewel of the High Country" thanks to the scenery, hiking, and more.

The Museum At California's Iconic Los Angeles Landmark Is Closing Down In 2026 For Renovations

staff@islands.com (Sarah Salisbury) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 20:00:00 +0000

This well-known science museum is getting a facelift for LA's 2028 Olympic games and will be closed to visitors for the next two years while it's expanded.

Just Off California's Coast Is The Only National Park Where You'll Find Miniature Island Foxes

staff@islands.com (Sarah Salisbury) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0000

Hike rugged coastal trails and spot rare miniature island foxes on the islands that make up this national park off the coast of Southern California.

Sacramento's Vibrant Suburb Is A City With River Views, Trails, And Tasty Eats

staff@islands.com (Natasha Bourlin) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 10:45:00 +0000

This Sacramento suburb is a culturally rich city that offers a wide variety of cuisine, in addition to scenic views of the American River at its parks.

One Of California's Longest Beaches Is A 17-Mile Paradise For Fishing, Surfing, And Monarch Butterflies

staff@islands.com (Heather Cole) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000

Surf spots for all levels, lagoon and pier fishing, and a seasonal monarch butterfly migration make this 17-mile California beach a standout on the coast.

One Of The West Coast's Longest Wooden Piers Is A Beloved California Fishing Haven For Sunsets And Snacks

staff@islands.com (Kelley Dukat) — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 17:45:00 +0000

California is famous for its picturesque piers. We take a look at the longest pier, a walkable landmark that's a haven for fishing and relaxation.

Santa Cruz's Must-Visit Taqueria Is A Local Favorite With Tasty Tacos And A Complimentary Salsa Bar

staff@islands.com (Eva Johnstone) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 22:45:00 +0000

Beloved by locals, travelers, and online reviewers, this hole-in-the-wall Mexican taco spot in Santa Cruz is the place to go for some of the best local dishes.

5 San Diego Spots I Always Take Friends And Family To When They Visit

staff@islands.com (Kelley Dukat) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:45:00 +0000

Planning a trip to San Diego, Califronia? Don't miss these five must-visit spots, complete with tips and expert insight from a local writer.

Just Outside San Francisco Is An Underrated Campground With Oceanfront Sites And Spectacular Sunsets

staff@islands.com (Eva Johnstone) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 09:15:00 +0000

Offering clean campsites and incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, this campground near San Francisco is a remarkable way to catch a sunset.

Between Fresno And Santa Cruz Is A Historic California City With Nearby Hot Springs And Valley Views

staff@islands.com (Leslie Veliz) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:45:00 +0000

This under-the-radar Central Valley spot offers melon farms, local diners, and access to a remote hot springs escape surrounded by open land.

SoCal's Stunning Eco Reserve Has Scenic Trails And Wildlife

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 19:45:00 +0000

A stunning eco reserve in Southern California is home to rare and endangered species, including one that exists nowhere else.

Sacramento's Vibrant Mall Is A Pretty Hub For Shops And Tasty Bites

staff@islands.com (Leslie Veliz) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:45:00 +0000

Within 15 minutes of Downtown Sacramento is a highly rated shopping mall boasting over 150 retailers, plus a variety of dining options for hungry shoppers.