ALONG COMES MARY

This past weekend I was thrilled to head out to The LA Travel and Adventure Show and in between representing IFWTWA at our booth, got to connect and learn about some great sights to discover and the ones I hope to get to again soon. I was so happy to see several California destinations and thought I would highlight five of my picks for traveling in our great Golden State!

CAMARILLO

From world-famous shopping (The Camarillo Premium Outlets) to wineries, golfing and monthly food festivals (Camarillo Ranch Throw back Thursday Food Festival), Camarillo is an adorable gem of a community in Ventura County with year-round great weather and small town vibes. Perfect for a laid back weekend, and next door to Ventura Harbor Village and Oxnard. (Speaking of Oxnard, check out their Salsa Festival coming this Summer!)

BUELLTON

Often considered the “gateway to The Santa Ynez Valley”, Buellton was once seen as a pit stop town and where you go for Pea Soup Anderson’s. Nowadays, Buellton is love and respected for its wineries, breweries and, of course, great food. Along with plenty to do within 5 miles in the Santa Ynez Valley towns of Solvang and Los Olivos (as well as a terrific place to stay near Solvang), Buellton is also a great option if you are traveling with an RV and want to hook up at Flying Flags RV Resort.

PISMO BEACH

If you’ve been following me for awhile, you might recall I adore trips up Highway 101 with stops to search for mermaids and sea life in both Shell Beach and Pismo Beach. Pismo Beach is in the middle of the Central Coast of California and much like Big Sur, boasts some of the best views and sunsets. Whether you want to surf, bike, hike, or wine and dine (and shop), Pismo Beach is a dream come true.

KERN COUNTY

Here is an area I am much too unfamiliar with. Kern County is where lays The San Joaquin Valley, Bakersfield, Lake Isabella and an array of great sporting activities. Off road biking, rock climbing, kayaking and a slew of other adventurous outings  Perfect this time of year for snow bunnies, I look forward to perhaps paying a visit when the temps rise up for the Summer!

REDDING

I was so excited to meet the team at Visit Redding. And, a little proud they teased I should work for them, as I know this Northern California city and its surroundings quite well (thanks to my dear Ariel. Whom you have met on the blog!). From The Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay, to nearby Mount Shasta and Burney Falls, Redding is another fantastic option when you are searching for The Great Outdoors. It is one of my favorite areas of California to visit.

Where in California will YOU head next?! xo