Have you been to California, and if not, is it on your bucket list? Well it should be!
I previously resided in California for a little more than a year (San Fernando Valley) and let me tell you, there is nothing like the views of the California Coastline. I had the pleasure of driving up to the now closed Ford Ord Army post on Monterey Bay when my ex-husband was in the reserves. The views were breathtaking!
California Highway 1 stretches more than 650 miles. Not everything about California is big cities and even bigger personalities! You can create your own idea of a restful and relaxing getaway. Whether you like to be an adventurer and enjoy the forests and towering mountains or strolling the beaches, it offers something for everyone.
Here are ten coastal towns to explore that will spark an adventurous road trip!
Fort Bragg - While this village isn't as quaint as many others, it is definitely worth the visit. Enjoy the flowers and grasses at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens while you take in the coastal views. Don't forget to seek out a new favorite wine at the Pacific Star Winery!
Mendocino Village - Home to many Victoria-era houses surrounded by bluffs. For the art lover in you, this village of artists coming together as a community offers you galleries and various shops to explore.
Capitola Village by the Sea - One of the oldest vacation retreat hotspots on the Pacific Coast with a Mediterranean atmosphere with colorful buildings, Victorian homes, boutiques, restaurants and shops
Moss Landing - With a population of only approximately 200 people, this quaint town offers access to Slough Reserve, one of the largest wetlands in California. Perfect for the birdwatcher in you!
Monterey - I personally consider this one of my favorite spots with it's famously known aquarium! You will definitely need more than one day to explore this town.
Carmel by the Sea - This coastal town has a village-like atmosphere with luxury inns and hotels for the ultimate pampering. Add to your pampering with a peaceful garden to get lost in your thoughts while visiting the Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo museum.
San Simeon - Be sure to check out Hearst Castle, the hilltop estate of media maven William Randolph Heart as well as the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery where you can see many seal mammals
Cambria - Take a stroll down Moonstone Beach with it's unique translucent stones lighting the shoreline or the rugged views from the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve.
Morro Bay - With one of the few remaining fishing villages along the coast, explore the Embarcadero, the town's major waterfront boardwalk. Don't forget to take in a harbor cruise to take in all the sea creatures in their natural habitats.
Oxnard - More urban than quaint and quiet, this side of the town offers a sandy beach with dunes and walking trails. Here you may run into a few celebrities or have a taste of some of the sweetest strawberries around the country.
Well, are you ready now?! Let's work together to map out your adventure so you can take in all of these impressive towns! Click the Contact Us tab at the top of the page to start the conversation today!