What do The Beach Boys, Snoop Dogg, The Mamas and the Papas, and Katy Perry have in common? They all sang songs about their love for California. From glaciers, to sand dunes, to redwoods, it’s no wonder California’s wondrous beauty inspires artists to write songs about it, residents to rediscover the diverse splendor of its landscape, and tourists to make it a must-see destination for a dream adventure.
If you want to get inspired by California’s natural scenic wonders, grab a camera and travel along the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), the final adventure on our Road Trip series. Every winding road gives you spectacular ocean views of surfers, elephant seals, and stunning waterfalls right out of your most vivid dreams. This rugged and beautiful coastline captures both the lively and laid-back spirit of the California lifestyle. The Pacific Coast Highway runs through busy metropolises like San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, where you’ll find plenty of bustling city events and attractions, as well as small towns with cozy California bed and breakfasts along the way.
After visiting the peaceful nature reserve at Mount Tam in Marin County, or sinking your toes into the sand at Black Sand Beach, drive over the famous Golden Gate Bridge to San Francisco for the 15th Annual San Francisco Independent Film Festival from February 7th-21st. During this festival you can watch great indie movies and boogie down at the annual Roller Disco Costume Party! Then rest your aching feet at the Country Cottage, a San Francisco, CA, bed and breakfast inn, where you’ll enjoy a full breakfast in the morning and plenty of lively conversation from the gracious innkeeper.
With Valentine’s Day drawing near, point your car in the direction of cupid’s arrow to Los Alamos, CA, where “Love-Fest – Los Alamos” is taking place on Saturday, February 16th. Local businesses will honor the love in your life with big events like honey tasting and open mic night for stories of first loves, as well as low-key dining by the glow of a fireplace while drinking a Lover’s Margarita. End your day in a Parisian artist’s loft or on board a pirate ship at the Victorian Mansion located in Los Alamos, CA. You and your sweetheart can choose from six themed suites and escape to a fantasy world all your own.
Whether your road trip travels take you to the Delaware Water Gap, Rogue-Umpqua Byway, Haines Highway, or the Pacific Coast Highway, you will get to experience first-hand the phenomenal beauty of North America. Our “Road Trip, Anyone?” Pinterest board is chalk full of road trip inspiration and sites to see. Happy travels!
