The California Orange Poppy is the official California State Flower. For only a few weeks a year, Antelope Valley’s 1,745 acres of rolling mountains turn vibrant orange with the California Poppy super bloom. In this post, I’ll give you the details you need to visit this majestic spectacle.

El Moro Canyon Loop is a nice 5 mile hike in Crystal Cove State Park along the Pacific Ocean. This is a wide and trafficked trail through Moro Canyon where you’ll get to see some beautiful views of the coastline with Newport Beach to the north and Laguna Beach to the south. In the post, I’ll give you the info you need to hike this trail.

The Monterey Tides Beach Hotel is the lovely location to stay while relaxing for a weekend in Monterey. It has a prime beachside location overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach is a wonderland with several hiking trails, and beautiful beachside tidepools. There are sea anemones, hermit crabs, sea stars, sea urchins and more. The water is crystal clear and sits in glistening pools over the rocky rugged coastline.

I’ve crafted what I would consider a perfect itinerary for those visiting Joshua Tree for the first timers. This is the perfect blend of activities to get a taste of the desert vibe. A little relaxation, some hiking, great food and sight-seeing.

When most people think of California wines, they think of Napa Valley. Even most Angelino's (people from L.A.) have never heard of the Santa Ynez Valley. Santa Ynez is just north of Santa Barbara, and is one of most diverse grape-growing regions in the county. 

A half-day exploring the sea caves on kayaks with Channel Islands Adventure Company.

A short ride from L.A. you can get out into nature and do a spectacular ziplining course in the beautiful mountain town of Wrightwood.