Where to Stay Near Legoland: Pelican Cove Inn Bed and Breakfast

exterior of the Pelican Cove Inn Bed and Breakfast in Carlsbad, California

By J.C. Thomas With the Legoland California resort as its major tourist attraction, plus beautiful beaches and a walkable downtown “village,” the coastal city of Carlsbad is an exceptional destination. Its proximity to San Diego’s countless attractions adds even more to Carlsbad’s appeal. As such, it has plenty of accommodation options including luxury resorts, well-known […]

Put Legoland California on Your List!

giant dinosaur statue at Legoland California

Little Lego fans and families who are so, so ready for a fun theme park adventure should know that Legoland California reopened to guests on April 15th. Adding to the excitement, the Carlsbad park just announced that its brand-new Lego Movie World will open on May 27, 2021. Advanced reservations are required, and capacity is […]

A Trio of Treasures at Torrey Pines

a brick patio and exterior wood of the Lodge at Torrey Pines with pine trees in the background

In one prized pocket of La Jolla are three glorious landmarks: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, Torrey Pines Golf Course, and the Lodge at Torrey Pines. By J.C. Thomas The Torrey pine tree (pinus torreyana), the rarest pine species in North America, is an intriguing natural treasure. It’s very finnicky about its home, existing only […]

Island Packers Seasonal Whale Watching & Excursions to the Channel Islands Now Open

gray whale tail emerges from the Pacific waters on a whale watching excursion with Island Packers
Photo by Lottie Keenan, courtesy of Island Packers

Island Packers, the official boat concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park, with daily departures to the Channel Islands from Ventura Harbor Village, has now re-opened! The family-owned company founded in 1968 is once again offering daily trips to the Channel Islands National Park as well as winter whale watching excursions. Winter Whale Watching A winter whale watch […]

Make Yourself at Home at the Beach House Inn, Santa Barbara

the flower-filled courtyard of the Beach House Inn in Santa Barbara, California

It’s always fun to imagine living full-time in a destination you’re only visiting, no matter how realistic or far-fetched the idea might be. The fantasy feels especially real when you find a place to stay that evokes the feeling of a home – somewhere like the Beach House Inn in Santa Barbara. This boutique hotel […]

Places to Play: Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

A small child in the distance approaching a redwood tree at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Since its founding in 1926, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden has been one of the city’s top attractions. It feels safe to say that locals and visitors have never been so appreciative of such a safe, scenic and peaceful outdoor space. At this time, the garden is open to the public seven days a week, and […]

Places to Play: Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area

A man show-shoes under pine trees at Mount San Jacinto State Park

California’s Stay at Home Order is still in place. Please enjoy our travel content but remember to recreate responsibly and only in your local area. At the time of publication, outdoor areas of Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area are open to the public for day use, however the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway […]

Places to Play: Santa Barbara Zoo

Giraffes at the Santa Barbara Zoo, one of the best attractions for kids in Santa Barbara

As a destination blessed by an abundance of loveliness, it’s no surprise that Santa Barbara has a superb zoo. The AZA-accredited Santa Barbara Zoo covers 30 acres and is home to more than 500 animals. Among them are giraffes, western lowland gorillas, a flock of flamingos, and this year’s new arrivals (and brand-new parents!), African […]

Places to Play: Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles, California

Griffith Observatory on Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, Los Angeles, California

A historic landmark, architectural masterpiece and cultural institution with the mission to bring astronomy to the people, Griffith Observatory means a lot to the people of Los Angeles. It’s a top tourist attraction too, with visitors from all over the world ascending the south slope of Mount Hollywood to take in unmatched views of the […]