California - Southern California

There's no place quite like California. Imagine it - a beautiful place filled with beautiful people. Southern California is the land of sun and surf. Southern California does have a winter season, with slightly cooler temperatures, but even then the weather is wonderful year round. Plus, California has the advantage of not having hurricane season - there won't be any storms to interfere with vacation plans. There is something for every member of the family to be found in Southern California.

Of course Disneyland is the most popular destination for both kids and adults. It resides in Anaheim and you don't want to miss it if you're anywhere near. In fact there is so much to see and do that you want to allow as many days as possible. Many of the hotels are within walking distance. This will make it easy for you to take a break from the rides and go back to your hotel for a swim and maybe a short nap. During peak seasons, Disneyland is packed. If you are visiting during one of these times be prepared for long lines, both to get into the park and to experience the rides. There are rides for adults and children alike. If you have children, be sure to take pictures of them with the Disneyland characters. They wander the park daily and interact with visitors.

If Disneyland's rides aren't wild enough for you, try Six Flags Magic Mountain in Los Angeles. This mega-amusement park emphasizes rides guaranteed to get your adrenaline flowing and raise your heart rate. Six Flags Magic Mountain offers a huge variety of some of the most thrilling rides and roller coasters in North America. Six Flags Magic Mountain's claim to fame is some of the fastest, highest, and most innovative coasters around. Just like Disneyland, peak tourist season brings lots of visitors to Six Flags, so be prepared to stand in lines and go early.

Another major selling point for Southern California is its ocean beaches. Because of the refreshing breeze generated by the ocean, you can easily be tricked into spending too many hours in the sun. Too often people get dangerously sunburned. Be sure to carry sun block with you whenever you go out. Among the most beautiful beaches are Malibu and Santa Monica. Spend a day at Santa Monica shopping on the Promenade and visiting Pacific Palisades Park. You'll find both funky shops and higher end stores. The palisades are so beautiful with their high cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the palm trees waving in the breeze. The beaches are well kept but parking spaces fill up fast, so get there early.

Southern California is the vacation of a life-time for the whole family - with sun, fun, and play all within an easy to reach area. You'll find lots to do, so make sure you have enough time to enough time for all the attractions.