By Karen Sprinkles
San Diego is just one of Southern California's attraction-filled cities.
Brimming with culture, attractions, scenic beauty and miles of
beaches, Southern California offers visitors myriad opportunities for relaxation, excitement, enjoyment and adventure. From the sunny shores of
San Diego and the laid-back charm of Catalina Island to the glittering allure of Hollywood and more, the Golden State does not get any more golden than in beautiful Southern California.
SeaWorld San Diego
Along with the wet (and thoroughly wild) Shamu show and the plethora of marine mammals on exhibit, SeaWorld San Diego features some dizzying thrill rides sure to bring excitement to all visitors, no matter what their age. The Journey to Atlantis ride rises high into the sky through a foggy mist, emerging above the park showcasing panoramic views of Mission Bay, only to plunge 60 feet back to earth.
SeaWorld San Diego
500 SeaWorld Drive
San Diego, CA 92109
800-257-4268
seaworld.com
Beach Cities
If you are looking for the quintessential Southern California beach experience, you will find it in southern Orange County, where surfing culture combines with arts, entertainment and shopping to make for the ideal getaway. The seaside arts community of Laguna Beach presents a Riviera-like setting along the coast, while nearby San Clemente boasts some of the greatest surfing spots in the world including Trestles. Meanwhile, the Newport Beach area offers miles of hiking trails, two piers, a number of seafood restaurants and world-class shopping. Ferry over to Balboa Island for chocolate-covered frozen bananas and a Ferris-wheel ride.
San Diego Zoo
Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo most certainly ranks one of the premier zoos in the world. Home to four giant pandas, the zoo provides an important sanctuary for some of the planet's most endangered animals. While you are at the zoo talking to the critters, remember to visit the zoo's Wild Animal Park in nearby Escondido. The 1,800-acre wildlife sanctuary is home to 3,500 animals representing more than 400 species.
San Diego Zoo
2929 Zoo Drive
San Diego, CA 92101
619-231-1515
sandiegozoo.org
Catalina Island
Only 22 miles from the California mainland, Catalina can be easily accessed via ferry from Long Beach, Dana Point or San Pedro. The romantic Ristorante Villa Portofino seduces all who visit, while the venerable Avalon Hotel is a local landmark. Or rent a bicycle and cruise Avalon's fabled streets.
Catalina Chamber of Commerce
1 Green Pier
Avalon, CA 90704
310-510-1520
catalinachamber.com
Grammy Museum
Located in the heart of LA's entertainment district, the $30 million, 30,000-square-foot Grammy Museum features dozens of exhibits that explore all genres of music, from rock, hip-hop, country and classical to Latin, R&B and jazz. Additionally, visitors can enjoy interactive displays, music classes, film screenings, live performances and more.
Grammy Museum
800 W. Olympic Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90015
213-765-6800
grammymuseum.org
About the Author:
Karen Sprinkles has been a freelance writer since 1988. She's currently the managing editor of a luxury home magazine and has written for regional newspapers and magazines. Sprinkles received the Award of Excellence from the Hawaii Book Publishers Association for "The Hawaii Home Book," which reached No. 1 on the Hawaii bestsellers list. She earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of California.
Photo Credits:
san diego harbor,san diego,harbor,california,conve image by Earl Robbins from
Fotolia.com
