Planning a California vacation? The Golden State is full of amazing discoveries from cute beach towns to mega-metropolises. We invite Michelle Peterman to run down four of her favourite stop offs that should make any road trip itinerary. 

With endless sunny days and incredible destinations, California has something for everyone. Offering amusement parks that outshine all others and extraordinary natural treasures, the Golden State has what you are looking for on your next holiday getaway. Delivering a myriad of fantastic off the main drag events, you can enjoy your unique holiday itinerary.

A road trip through California lets you enjoy them leading you to discover natural parks, visit hidden shoreline neighborhoods, or experience the lively nightlife of a vibrant city like L.A.. With so much to see and do, it is wise to pick a few spots you want to visit and go from there. A great place to start is a trip along the Pacific Coast Highway in the south of California.

Carlsbad, The Village by the Sea

The charm of a small town with all the amenities of a large metropolitan center, the beautiful city of Carlsbad offers its visitors miles of stunning coastline and top-notch resorts. Uncrowded beaches welcome swimmers and surfers alike. Carlsbad hotels are ideally situated near LEGOLAND California and the Sea Life Aquarium. Regardless of whether the beach calls you or nearby attractions seek your attention, Carlsbad California promises to provide an unmatched vacation experience.

Huntington Beach, Surf City USA

The next stop on your road trip through the Golden State must be at least one day spent at a classic beach town. Where the main drag leads you straight to this Southern California’s curving shoreline, you can bet on a day of fun in the sun. Bike along the oceanfront, surf the waves or play some beach volleyball. A short walk from the water takes you to stylish shops and bistros offering sidewalk tables. Enjoy the fresh ocean breeze at one of the luxurious oceanfront resorts and then spend the day soaking up the sun.

Long Beach, Laid Back and Friendly

A perfect combination of a sizeable urbane metropolis and a coastal resort town, Long Beach has many beaches and marinas to complement its eateries and shopping district. The legendary ocean liner, Queen Mary, is permanently docked and open to tours. A stroll along the waterfront will bring you to the Aquarium of the Pacific displaying coral reefs and other aquatic habitats. Finally, if the beach is what you seek, the Belmont Shore neighborhood offers a hip vibe on the water.

Los Angeles, The A-List Crowd

Your road trip wraps up in California’s largest city. With around-the-clock action, L.A can be tough to navigate so plan. Try starting in Santa Monica, a coastal town blessed with uncrowded beaches and its trademark pier offering carnival rides, shops, and restaurants. Next visit the fabled Beverly Hills with its exclusive boutiques along Rodeo Drive.

To the east, you will find Hollywood. A lively part of Los Angeles, the sights, and the sounds of Hollywood are often the most appealing to visitors. What better way to top off your California road trip than in one of Hollywood or Downtown LA’s clubs. Let the nightlife of Los Angeles leave you inspired to return for more on your next holiday.