The Most Beautiful Places in California You Never Knew Existed
The Most Beautiful Places in California You Never Knew Existed
Venice Canals
The Cypress Tree Tunnel
Inverness
The Cypress Tree Tunnel looks like something straight out of a fairytale book, but it does exist and it’s quite spectacular to see in person. A long row of cypress trees in the Point Reyes Peninsula form a natural tunnel with their lengthy branches. When you see the sign that says North District Operations Center off of Sir Francis Drake Blvd, you’ll know you’re in the right spot. Sunset hour is a popular time to visit with professional photographers and amateurs flocking to get the perfect shot, but sunrise is also a good time to visit and a bit less crowded. Park in the small designated lot and definitely don’t park anywhere on or close to the trees.
Find an amazing Airbnb near Inverness
Lovers Point
Pacific Grove
This east-facing beach with clear waters happens to be one of the only spots on the West Coast where you can watch the sunrise over the water. Take the stairs to the grassy bluffs, also known as Lovers Point Park, and enjoy a day of recreation in the 4.4-acre community which includes a beach volleyball court, water sports, kids swimming pool, and restaurant. This little slice of heaven in Pacific Grove has become a favorite amongst surfers, scuba divers, and kayakers (the water is too cold for swimming), but it’s also a great place to just lounge, walk your dog, or have a picnic. The Annual Feast of Lanterns, an ongoing community event for the last 100 years, takes place here in the summer and ends with fireworks on the beach.
Find an amazing Airbnb near Pacific Grove
Lake Calavera
Carlsbad
Calavera Lake is a 400-acre reservoir surrounded by miles of hiking and biking trails, 17 native vegetation communities, and land that was once an old rock quarry. There are multiple trails to choose from that vary in difficulty but you will be rewarded with sprawling views at the top. And you don’t have to travel far to see a natural wonder like a dormant volcano. The small mountain on the preserve called Mount Calavera is actually a volcanic plug, a hardened bit of magma and one of the last remaining pieces of the inactive volcano. At the base, you will find a man-made labyrinth and peaceful rock garden that you can contribute to.
Find an amazing Airbnb near Carlsbad
Morro Rock
Morro Bay
Standing at 576 feet tall, Morro Rock, also referred to as the "Gibraltar of the Pacific,” is the focal point of a small coastal town called Morro Bay. The rock which is now recognized as a California Historic Landmark is part of the Nine Sisters which are nine volcanic peaks that stretch from San Luis Obispo to Morro Bay. Throw back a few oysters (Morro Bay is famous for them) at one of their seafood markets on the embarcadero and enjoy views of the massive ancient formation while watching cute sea otters float in the water.
Find an amazing Airbnb near Morro Rock
Bixby Bridge
Big Sur
It’s hard to talk about beautiful places in California without mentioning the iconic Bixby Bridge along the Highway One coastline. This stunning bridge that was built in 1932 leads into Carmel-by-the-Sea heading north and it is a popular attraction for roadtrippers and photographers. The optimal time for photos is at sunset when the lighting is ideal. On the north end of the bridge, there is a popular turnout area where you’ll likely find other visitors trying to capture their close-up shots as well.
Find an amazing Airbnb near Bixby Bridge
Dana Point Sea Caves
Dana Point
California is home to many sea caves, but the Dana Point Sea Caves are a bit lesser known and easier to access. Sometimes referred to as Pirate’s Cove or Pirate’s Cave, according to local lore, the caves were once used by seafaring buccaneers in the early 20th century. For the best views, drive to the Ocean Institute, head towards the rock jetty, and take the concrete stairs to the right. Follow the signs as you hike to Pirate’s Cave and get your camera ready to snap photos of the caves and the waves crashing in the background. It’s about a 1.2-mile round trip hike but beware, it can get rocky so wear proper shoes. You’ll want to visit when the tide is low because it can get slippery in some areas and you’ll likely get drenched during high tide.
Find an amazing Airbnb near the Dana Point Sea Caves
Carmel River State Beach
Carmel
Only one mile long, Carmel River State Beach features white, sandy beaches and a lagoon formed by the Carmel River that attracts song birds and waterfowl. The protected bird sanctuary draws bird enthusiasts and is also a popular spot for dog owners or anyone who wants to enjoy a romantic sunset picnic. While you’ll spot a number of local divers and kayakers, the waves are really powerful so swimming is not encouraged.
Find an amazing Airbnb near Carmel River State Beach
Mount San Jacinto State Park
Idyllwild
At the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which is now open, you’ll find the magnificent Mount San Jacinto State Park. The tramway takes passengers to an elevation of 8,516 feet where you can hike more than 50 miles of trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the second highest mountain range in Southern California. There are also two restaurants, an observation deck, a museum, and a gift shop. Most areas of the park are designated wilderness areas so you might spot a few animals during your visit.
Find an amazing Airbnb near Mount San Jacinto Park
San Simeon Cove
San Simeon
There are a lot of beautiful gems along Highway One and San Simeon Cove is one of them. It’s one of those viewpoints that most tourists don’t know about so you can enjoy stunning views without the busy crowds. Across from Hearst Castle you will find a parking lot adjacent to the beach and this is where you’ll want to start. When you get to the beach you’ll see an uphill hiking trail which you will follow along the bluff and continue on until you see spectacular views of the coastline. Enjoy the aromatic smells of eucalyptus and pines along the trail and make sure to pay attention for private property signs.
Find an amazing Airbnb near San Simon Cove
Bowling Ball Beach
Point Arena
If you go to Schooner Gulch State Beach at low tide and walk to the north, you’ll see a beach that looks like it’s covered in oversized bowling balls, which are actually the result of millions of years of a geological phenomenon known as “concretion.” It doesn’t sound as strange as it looks, so this is definitely one of those places you need to visit in order to understand how cool it is. Also, fun fact: Schooner Gulch got its name because, as the story goes, a schooner was seen stranded on the beach in the mouth of the gulch one night…but by morning it was gone.
Find an amazing Airbnb near Bowling Ball Beach
Best 7 Merit Casino 2021 - XN Network
ReplyDeleteFind out how you can win more than febcasino a $10000 casino bonus. Start earning cash in online gambling with the best 1xbet bonuses 메리트 카지노 쿠폰 at XN Network.