California - Islands

A row of colorful Victorian homes in Cincinnati

By Lauren Kershner 2 months ago

Cincinnati's Oldest Neighborhood Has Underrated Streets Of Victorian 'Painted Ladies' Like San Francisco

This centuries-old neighborhood in Ohio is an unexpected color explosion that offers endless photo-ops, nearby breweries, and sprawling parks to explore.

Car parked under palm trees at Refugio State Beach

By Joseph Richard Francis 2 months ago

Tucked Away Along California's Coast Lies An Underrated Beach That Feels Like A Slice Of Hawaii

Along California's scenic coastline lies a tropical oasis that rivals Hawaii's best beaches and features palm trees, golden sands, and a beachfront campsite.

By Tamara Blazquez Haik 2 months ago

California's 'River That Came Back To Life' Thrives With Wildlife And Adventure After Hiding For Decades

One of California's mightiest rivers has come back to life after Native American tribes and environmentalist groups successfully got dams removed.

Bigfoot carving outside a building in Willow Creek, California

By Jade Poleon 2 months ago

The 'Bigfoot Capital Of The World' Is A California Mountain Town With River Adventures, Wineries, And Trails

Discover the mountain town in California that offers river adventures, forest hikes, wine tours, and memorabilia dedicated to the legendary Bigfoot.

Downtown LA and Griffith Park from Glendale Peak trail

By Ryan Ariano 2 months ago

Skip California's Crowded Hike Up Mount Hollywood For This Less-Traveled Peak With Unmatched Downtown LA Views

If you want to get some of the best views of Los Angeles without the crowds of Mount Hollywood, this lesser-hiked peak is a perfect alternative.

The Foresthill Bridge above the North Fork of the American River

By Dana Cape 2 months ago

A Quaint California Gold Rush Town Has Cabins, Trails, Whitewater Rafting, And A Secret Redwood Grove

One of California's many Gold Rush towns, this spot is unique for it proximity to the American River, a plot of giant sequoias, and the Tahoe National Forest.

Strawberry fields and the hills of Watsonville, California

By Kristin Conard 2 months ago

The 'Strawberry Capital Of The World' Is A Bayside California City Blending Long Beaches And Agricultural Charm

This bayside California city blends long beaches, farmland, fresh flavors, and a festival celebrating its famed "strawberry capital of the world" title.

By Richard Milner 2 months ago

In California, It's Illegal To Kill One Very Specific Type Of Venomous, Deadly Snake

You may think if you spot a deadly venomous snake, you're within you're rights to kill it and save yourself. Well, not this one you can find in California.

By Rene Bennett 2 months ago

Hidden In The California Desert Near Joshua Tree Is A Bizarre Work Of Land Art Visible From Space

Outside of Joshua Tree National Park is a massive, fascinating work of art that can be perfectly viewed by satellites from orbiting Earth.

Aerial view of Borrego Springs, California, on a clear day showing houses, pools, mountains, palm trees, and desert terrain

By Sophie Dunne 2 months ago

One Of California's Most Affordable Retirement Destinations Is Surrounded By Stunning State Park Trails

While retiring on the California coast is costly, one of the state's most affordable options offers nature trails, art, and other activities.

Lake Two and Temple Crag in Big Pine Lakes Region

By Jom Elauria 2 months ago

California's 'Little Patagonia' Is A Breathtaking Region Of Ice Blue Lakes, Glaciers, And Mountain Peaks

This stunning region in the Sierra Nevada is home to trails that traverse turquoise lakes, sparkling glaciers, and even summit the peaks of fourteeners.

Tow camping chairs on a sandy beach at Blue Lakes in Lake County, California.

By Eva Johnstone 2 months ago

Hidden In Northern California Are A Pair Of Unbelievably Clear Spring-Fed Lakes For Camping, Swimming, And Fishing

These two unbelievably blue lakes in Northern California are the best destinations for families who enjoy paddling, swimming, fishing, and camping.

Three manmade hot springs built into the boulders overlook the Kern River at Remington Hot Springs, California

By Eva Johnstone 2 months ago

Tucked Away In The Sierra Nevadas Is California's Free-To-Visit Hot Spring With Unique Geothermal Pools

Sometimes the best outdoor getaways are the ones that let you throw caution (and clothing) to the wind, and California's hot springs offer exactly that.

Mansions on the shore in Lake Arrowhead, California

By Joe Orovic 2 months ago

Hidden In 'The Alps Of Southern California' Is A Picturesque Lakeside Village With Luxurious Stays And Glorious Trails

If you're seeking a lakeside retreat deep in the mountains of Southern California, this slice of the San Bernardino National Forest is worth checking out.

Historic building and Metrolink station Claremont, CA

By Jody Miller 2 months ago

One Of California's Best College Towns Is A Charming Escape With Walkable Streets And Public Art Installations

Not far from LA, this California town boasts seven colleges, art installations like a James Turrell Skyspace, and live events from dueling pianos to folk music.

View of the American River along Highway 49, California

By Joseph Richard Francis 2 months ago

California's Iconic Road Trip Connects Charming Gold Country Towns With Wildly Scenic Sierra Nevada Backcountry

From historic mining towns to mountain wilderness, this legendary roadtrip offers travelers an unforgettable blend of Old West history and outdoor thrills.

An aerial drone shot shows off the wide stretch of sand and clean waves of Cardiff State Beach

By Dana Cape 2 months ago

Just North Of San Diego Is A Pristine California Beach With Perfect Surfing And Paddling Conditions

This beach is a gem in San Diego County's sandy crown, with ideal conditions for surfing, some calmer waters for paddleboarding, and delicious seafood nearby.

Ariel shot of Lake Tahoe at sunset along a drive by the shore with mountains in the background

By Steven Cruse 2 months ago

Lake Tahoe's North And South Shores Have Totally Different Vibes. Here's The Best One For Your Vacation Style

Heading to Lake Tahoe but unsure if you should stay on the North or South Shore? Here's what you need to know about the different vibes and visiting there.

By Lauren Kershner 2 months ago

California's 'Hub Of The San Gabriel Valley' Is A Foodie Utopia Full Of Authentic Eats And Cultural Charm

Whether you want to explore outdoor markets, sink your teeth into authentic Mexican fare, or explore the first In-N-Out location, this city has it all.

By Adela Reyes 2 months ago

California's 'High Desert Gateway' Is A City Of Route 66 Nostalgia, Museums, And A Unique Restaurant Row

This tiny town located on Route 66 is the perfect escape for those that crave history, Americana, and delicious restaurants that you won't find anywhere else.

Historic urban core of downtown Danville, California

By Anahid Akkam 2 months ago

Just Beyond San Francisco Is One Of California's Most Underrated Towns With Exceptional Eats And Specialty Shops

With an abundance of local eateries and adorable boutique shops on every block, this charming town near San Francisco is a must-visit destination.

Pine-covered hills in Grover Hot Springs State Park in Alpine County, California

By Eden Arielle Gordon 2 months ago

California's Least Populated County Has Hot Springs, Rugged Western Charm, And More Campgrounds Than Towns

This county in California may have few residents, but it's bursting with forests, camping spots, hot springs baths, ski resorts, and cozy restaurants.

Los Angeles, California skyline with snow-capped Mt. Baldy behind

By Jen Theriault 2 months ago

The Secret Weather Window That Always Yields Spectacular Views On Any Los Angeles Hike

If you're visiting Los Angeles, there's a secret weather window you should know about that yields great visibility and views on any LA-area hike.

Vineyards and olive trees in Los Olivos, California

By Valentina Pucciano 2 months ago

The 'Olive Capital Of The World' Is A Walkable Wine Country Gem Out West With Tasting Rooms, Dining, And Orchards

While olives are largely associated with the Mediterranean, one California town is a mecca for the fruit, offering incredible orchard-side dining options.