The best places to visit in California, with practical advice on which destinations fit different trips.
A practical first-time camping guide to California with reservation systems, campsite choice, gear, bear-safe food storage, weather, family planning and mistakes to avoid.
Compare Highway 1, US-101 and I-5 for a Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip, with realistic timing, overnight strategies, Big Sur road checks and family advice.
Plan a San Francisco to Yosemite road trip with Highway 120 vs 140, realistic drive time, where to stay, two-night strategy, winter road issues and family advice.
A practical San Diego to Los Angeles coastal road trip with Encinitas, Carlsbad, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, Orange County, train alternatives and realistic one- or two-day plans.
Compare 10 realistic day trips from San Francisco, including Muir Woods, Sausalito, Point Reyes, Napa, Sonoma, Half Moon Bay, Angel Island, Santa Cruz and Monterey.
Compare 10 practical day trips from San Diego, including Coronado, North County, Julian, Anza-Borrego, Temecula, Dana Point and Laguna Beach with seasonal and family advice.
Compare California ski destinations for families and beginners, including Lake Tahoe, Mammoth and Big Bear, with lessons, lodging, winter roads, altitude and non-ski advice.
Three realistic 7-day California itineraries for Northern California, Southern California or a San Francisco-to-Los Angeles coastal road trip, with airport and driving advice.
A realistic 21-day California road trip covering San Francisco, Yosemite, Monterey, the Central Coast, Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego with optional branches.
Compare 12 of the best California beach towns for families, couples, surfers, road trips and quieter coastal stays, from Santa Barbara and Laguna Beach to Mendocino.