It’s Not Too Early to Plan Your Weekend, Staycation or Vacation, Right?

Plan extended seasonal vacations during summer and winter months.

Group destination locations together in regional trips to explore what several bucket list towns have to offer in the general vicinity

Dedicated to helping you live, love, work, play, invest and leave a legacy. Enjoy our latest newsletter inspiring you to appreciate California’s natural beauty and awesome adventures waiting for you.

Curated Highlights and Headlines

California Coast: Tip to Tip

South Coast Region

South Bay 

Ventura County: Mission San Buenaventura. “This ghost tries to help people and some say he is an unknown saint who wants to comfort those in spiritual need.” 

North County

Del Mar: “KAABOO (September 13–15), the three-day music, food, and comedy festival based at the county fairgrounds in the coastal town of Del Mar. This year’s lineup has been announced, with Kings of Leon, Dave Matthews Band, and Mumford & Sons headlining the three nights.”

Orange County Beach Towns

Competition with Santa Cruz: “After battling it out with the beachside city of Santa Cruz to their north, Huntington Beach in California’s Orange County officially claimed the title of USA’s “Surf City” in 2008. The surf influence around Huntington Beach is glaringly obvious, but what exactly is it that gives the city its label as the USA’s home of surf?”

Huntington Beach: “The city is also home to terrific seafood, fun bars, acclaimed resorts, epic bike rides, surf schools, surf competitions, and a surf museum. Okay, so maybe it is mostly about the surfing here.”

South Orange County

Curated by Steve Howard published in “California Coast: Tip to Tip” for the Best West Road Trips digital magazine.

San Juan Capistrano: “Development in the area, and loss of the birds’ habitat, are the likely culprits behind the disruption of the birds’ migratory patterns. The replicated nests worked. A cliff swallow has built a nest in the East Corridor of the mission near the Serra Chapel entry, and rough-winged swallows have been spotted nesting in the ruins of the Great Stone Church, a popular spot for the swallows many years ago”.

Central Coast Region

San Luis Obispo: “It’s on the central coast, but 12 miles inland, out of the fog belt; has eternally perfect weather; and sports a self-aware downtown core that manages to be both hip and historic — and, yes, very walkable.

North Coast Region

Fort Bragg: “There are all sorts of ways to eat, sip and play in Fort Bragg, the bustling fishing town on Mendocino County’s spectacular, craggy coast. Here are three ideas to get you started.”

Peninsula Region

Half Moon Bay: “A day by the Bay, the OTHER Bay — Half Moon Bay — combines so many of the best things about Northern California, all in one stop. From amazing beer and diverse food offerings, cheap or expensive things to do, a fascinating dock, beautiful trails, world-renowned surfing, reasonable or outrageous hotels, and all a short drive from the chaos of the city.” 

San Francisco Bay Region

Romantic and beautiful, San Francisco has been the backdrop for many of the world’s favourite films, such as Bullitt and Mrs Doubtfire. The reality is even better, from the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz to cable cars and fog. With great restaurants, shopping and museums, this is a five-star destination.

Steps:

21) Spend the time to find the best place to live and invest. It will be worth your while. The great thing about living where others spend their vacation is the year round quality-of-life. 

24) Determine which maker or breaker community issues you will find across all resort communities vs. those unique only to the quality-of-life towns at the top of your best places list.

32) Plan extended seasonal vacations during summer and winter months. Group destination locations together in regional trips to explore what several bucket list towns have to offer in the general vicinity – with only a week or two vacation time to spend, we recommend organizing your itinerary by travel regions.

33) When you move, will your established neighbors share your same values? Does your new home have potential over the long-term to develop into a high appreciation real estate investment while being affordable for mid-life or empty nesters? Do the weather patterns in winter or summer make you want to live there year round, or only on a seasonal basis. Does  your new community offer a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities?

34) On your visits look for any newer developments that may trigger changes in neighborhood patterns. New construction in or around the neighborhood? Major regional economic adjustments? Transition from households with children to ones that are empty nests? Rezoning, and dramatically rising/falling land values?

 

 

 

San Diego. Why not live where it’s a vacation all year round?

The Port of San Diego has reached an agreement with Commander Navy Region Southwest to jointly address the local effects of sea level rise.

 

They say seawalls, sand retention and beach replenishment are better ways to preserve their coastal homes, and that their property values would plummet if they acknowledge that someday their property could be inundated by the sea.

 

Highlights and Headlines: Summer 2018

South Coast Region

San Diego

Why San Diego Is the Perfect Summer Getaway

“In this southern California city that feels like a town, visitors can truly enjoy the summer sunshine at one of the city’s gorgeous beaches (hello, La Jolla), eat at some of the best Mexican restaurants north of the border, and sip on an ice cold beer or two from San Diego’s famous breweries. Of course, if beaches and breweries aren’t your thing there’s still plenty to do in San Diego, like checking out its public gardens at Balboa Park, seeking out one of the city’s best art galleries, or paying a visit to the famed San Diego zoo for a bit of family fun.” travelandleisure.com/destination  Stacey Leasca

Where to Dine Outdoors in San Diego

“If there is one city that was made for outdoor dining, it’s San Diego. We have the space, we have the perfect weather and we have a laid-back attitude that makes al fresco eating and drinking a given more than a special event. Here are 14 restaurants not only long on views and beautiful spaces to sit, but that are serving good food and drinks, too.” sandiego.eater.com/  Jackie Bryant

Heading to San Diego this summer? Here are 10 breweries where you can quench your thirst

“Almost anywhere you find yourself in San Diego, from hipster enclaves to sunny beach towns, and no matter what activities you have planned — shopping, golfing, surfing or an outing at the zoo — there is sure to be a delightful cold one with your name on it nearby. Last year, with more than 120 San Diego County craft breweries to explore, I limited myself to just a portion of the beer scene in the northern part of the county (“11 breweries to try on San Diego’s Hops Highway”). This year I’m taking on the rest of the county. I researched beer pairings, so to speak, linking prime visitor destinations and interesting neighborhoods with top-notch breweries. The goal: to give readers a brewery in a locale in which they are likely to stay or visit while on vacation.” latimes.com/travel  By Irene Lechowitzky

What to Do in San Diego

“To please the younger folks in your crew, head over to Balboa Park, where you can explore miles of trails, check out the gardens, and play all day long at the World Famous San Diego Zoo. San Diego also has plenty to offer the foodies in your life, including some of the best Mexican restaurants north of the border, and more than 130 local breweries. Truly, San Diego is home to the endless summer. So go ahead, book your tickets now. We’ll be waiting for you on La Jolla beach.” travelandleisure.com/destination Stacey Leasca

Port of San Diego and U.S. Navy Make Plans for Sea Level Rise

“The Port of San Diego has reached an agreement with Commander Navy Region Southwest to jointly address the local effects of sea level rise. It is the first partnership of its kind, and it will allow the port and the Navy to share information and modeling on the future impact of rising seas. “The potential impacts of sea level rise do not recognize jurisdictional boundaries and demand collaboration among all stakeholders,” said Rear Adm. Yancy Lindsey, Commander Navy Region Southwest. ‘We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Port, local municipalities, and other interested parties on this challenge to ensure the resiliency and viability of our Navy installations, San Diego Bay, and its surrounding communities, now and into the future.’” maritime-executive.com/ (The amphib USS Makin Island prepares to moor at Pier 12, Naval Base San Diego, 2018 (USN))

North San Diego County

Del Mar takes another look at rising sea level and unpopular ‘planned retreat’

“Low-lying homes along the coast in Del Mar have become increasingly threatened by sea-level rise. Residents are working to develop an adaptation strategy .  Many of the city’s residents have fought long and hard against including planned retreat as part of their strategy. They say seawalls, sand retention and beach replenishment are better ways to preserve their coastal homes, and that their property values would plummet if they acknowledge that someday their property could be inundated by the sea. However, the California Coastal Commission requires all coastal cities to have a sea-rise adaptation plan, and to include planned retreat as part of their strategy. Failure to comply could result in the Coastal Commission refusing to certify the city’s plan, thus robbing Del Mar of the authority to approve permits for developments such as seawalls, homes, businesses, roads and other structures.” sandiegouniontribune.com/communities/north-county Phil Diehl (Photo by K.C. Alfred)

Del Mar. Downtown improvements in Del Mar get green light

“The overall project will include improvements to sidewalks, parking areas, bike lanes, medians, landscaping and the roadway between Ninth Street and the intersection at the northern entrance to Del Mar Plaza. Elements include new benches, trashcans, bicycle racks, newspaper displays, bus shelters, disabled accessible ramps and transitions, retaining walls, site walls and lighting. Of the 94 trees in the total project area, 59 will be left in place and 35 will be removed. Eighty-five new trees will be planted, resulting in 144 trees for a net gain of 50.” thecoastnews.com  Photo by Bianca Kaplanek

Encinitas aims to start Beacon’s Beach project in fall

“Encinitas may borrow money to improve access to Beacon’s Beach. The beach project is a public safety issue because of concerns about the current condition of the hillside pathway, while the Leucadia Streetscape’s planned beautification of Coast Highway 101 has the potential to generate a great deal of tax revenue, council members said as they declared both items high priorities for funding in the coming months. Support for the Beacon’s Beach project, which includes building a new staircase and reworking the parking lot to resolve hillside erosion issues, was unanimous.” sandiegouniontribune.com/communities  Barbara Henry (The San Diego Union-Tribune)

Encinitas. Surfhouse Now Offering Surf Coaching With Damien Hobgood | Adventure Sports Network

“The Surfhouse is steps away from so many great waves, including Beacons, which is right up the street. When was the last time you saw footage of yourself surfing? Was it when you were on boat trip in the Maldives and hired a local lensman to shoot your session when it was overhead and firing? Or was it at waist-high T-Street, when you asked your buddy to stand on the steps and try not to miss your best wave? Whatever the case may be, chances are it doesn’t happen all that often for regular surfers like you and I. And it certainly doesn’t include a critical analysis from one of the greatest surfers to ever hit the water … Mr. Damien Hobgood. If you feel like your surfing is good enough to warrant some fine-tuning from a pro, then Surfhouse in Encinitas, California, has a new service that might just be right up your alley.” adventuresportsnetwork.com ADVENTURE SPORTS NETWORK · Jon Perino Photo: Jackson Van Kirk

Carlsbad makes park ranger program permanent

“Carlsbad has 27 parks, nearly 50 miles of trails, and 13 nature preserves, the largest of which is the Lake Calavera preserve in the city’s northeastern quadrant. The Lake Calavera trails are popular with hikers and mountain bikers. The summit of a volcanic plug, once a column of molten lava, is a frequent destination at the elevation of 513 feet. At Batiquitos Lagoon, in Carlsbad’s southwestern quadrant near Encinitas, one of the most frequent problems has been people letting their dogs run without a leash on the preserve’s two-mile trail, said Deb Mossa, vice president of the lagoon foundation’s board. “Since the inception of the ranger program, that has diminished considerably,” Mossa told the City Council. ‘That has just been wonderful for Batiquitos.'” sandiegouniontribune.com/communities/north-county Phil Diehl (Union-Tribune file photo by Charlie Neuman)

Steps:

20)  Maybe the lists of best places don’t appeal to you. Where can you go to make a fresh, new start? Don’t limit your imagination. Think anywhere — across the globe. Where do you really, really want to live, work and play?  Why not live where it’s a vacation all year round?

21) Spend the time to find the best place to live and invest. It will be worth your while. The great thing about living where others spend their vacation is the year round quality-of-life.

30) Review headlines and relevant news as far back as you can find online to surface each community’s unique pulse and identify information necessary to make your decision. Is there a “ticking time bomb” issue you may uncover that eliminates the resort from your bucket list? Search on topix.com.

32) Plan extended seasonal vacations during summer and winter months. Group destination locations together in regional trips to explore what several bucket list towns have to offer in the general vicinity – with only a week or two vacation time to spend, we recommend organizing your itinerary by travel regions.

Are You Ready for Natural Beauty and Awesome Adventures?

We’re nearing the end of our journey inching up the coast of California, town-by-town, beach-by-beach choosing roads that hug the Pacific Ocean whenever we can.

 

Looking for awesome vacations and potential second or first homes we’d love.

 

Highlights and Headlines: April 2018

South Coast Region

San Diego

Point Loma. 7 Things to Do, See, and Eat in Point Loma.

You know that a peninsula is worthy of national monument status when even the “new” lighthouse has been safely guiding ships into port for over 125 years. The city’s history can be traced back to this very spot, and today the area is dotted with pristine marinas, dockside dining, and miles of walking and hiking paths that beckon locals and tourists alike who are looking for fun on the waterfront.” By: San Diego Magazine sandiego.org 

North County, San Diego

Del Mar. Ultimate California beach house wants $18.75M.

This beach house in Del Mar, in San Diego County, is the stuff of dreams—and magazines. Recently featured on the cover of Dream Homes magazine, the 1982 home was designed by architect Sim Bruce Richards, a Taliesin fellow, and the influences of Frank Lloyd Wright are clear.” By Lauren Ro  Courtesy of Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

Orange County Beach Towns

South Orange County

Capistrano. More Sharks Offshore, But Don’t Panic. 

Experts Say We’re not on the Menu. Whale-watchers spot a young white shark off Capistrano Beach last May aboard Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari from Dana Point.” By Rita Robinson.  lagunabeachindy.com Photo courtesy of Jason and Jenny Armstrong.

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach. Art Ninjas Add Local Color by Stealth.

Muralist Jeff Lavinsky during installation of “Main Beach Mandala, located south of Main Beach. lagunabeachindy.com Photo courtesy of Jeff Lavinsky.

 

Balboa, Newport and CDM

Newport Beach. Gray whale entangled off the Wedge in Newport Beach; rescue efforts halted for the day.

Leslie Evarts saw the gray whale in the distance from her Laguna Beach home, grabbed her stand-up paddleboard and rushed out to the water, with hopes of seeing the 30-foot sea creature up close.” By LAYLAN CONNELLY Orange County Register Photo courtesy of Ryan Lawler, Newport Coastal Adventure 

Surf City USA – Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach. FIVB Huntington Beach Open: Humana-Paredes, Pavan outlast April Ross, Alix Klineman.

USA’s Alix Klineman, left, and partner April Ross get tangled up during their three-set loss to Canada’s Sarah Pavin and Melissa Humana-Paredes on Friday at the FIVB Huntington Beach Open.” BOB KEISSER | Press-Enterprise (Photo by Kevin Sullivan, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Naples to Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Long Beach. Tacos and Mexican food for Cinco de Mayo — the best in the Long Beach area.

 Tacos are popular in Southern California, whether they’re basic with ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes and cheese, or more elaborate creations, such as these Brisket tacos.” By MERRILL SHINDLER | MrEats@aol.com |presstelegram.com (File photo) 

South Bay

Malibu. Malibu Surfrider Beach.

Malibu Lagoon is comprised of 22 acres of wetlands, gardens, and sandy beach, while Malibu “Surfrider” Beach has almost a mile of ocean frontage with 0.7 acres of property, and famous Malibu Pier is a great place for saltwater fishing.beaches.lacounty.gov 

 

Ventura County

Ventura. California’s Ventura County Coast: Surf, Style & Shakespeare.

As I learned firsthand this summer, the entire Ventura County Coast, comprising the cities of Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, and Hueneme, on the southern end of California’s central coast, offers many such glorious juxtapositions, embracing surfing, style, Shakespeare, and much more.” By Robert Firpo-Cappiello budgettravel.com  Courtesy Ventura County Coast

Islands along the Pacific Coast

Catalina Island. Avalon Harbor Lights Tour.

Experience the romance and mystery of Catalina by night on this narrated adventure into the hills above historic Avalon. Your open air biofuel Hummer will take you east along the waterfront past Lover’s Cove before heading up to Mt. Ada for spectacular views of the twinkling city and harbor lights below.visitcatalinaisland.com 

Central Coast Region

Santa Barbara County

Montecito. Cheers to Montecito – Visit Santa Barbara.

Along the coast of The American Riviera® lies the town of Montecito, a seaside haven that balances sweeping coastal views and a savory culinary scene. Treat yourself to an extended vacation full of indulgent restaurants, premium wines and coastal bliss.santabarbaraca.com 

San Luis Obispo County

Avila Beach Dining | California Highway One Coast Road Trip.

Our Central Coast beach-side location holds beautiful views with a casual atmosphere. An excellent dining experience is our top priority. Our menu has something for everyone…fresh fish, hand cut steaks, refreshing salads and our specialty appetizers. We offer breakfast, lunch and dinner. Come and have a drink at our cocktail bar, or dine on our outdoor patio while gazing out across the beautiful San Luis Bay.http://highway1discoveryroute.com 

Monterey County

Big Sur. 3 Days in Monterey and Big Sur.

En route, you’ll pitstop on the Monterey Peninsula before snaking along through the wilderness of Big Sur. It needs our tourism more than ever, after suffering near economic catastrophe when it was cut off from the outside world during the winter storm season 2017; bridges were destroyed and roads blocked at both its northern and southern reaches. Thankfully, for locals and visitors alike, the northern section has already reopened, across Pfeiffer Canyon, but the southern connection, at Ragged Point, is still under construction (scheduled to open late 2018 but check with CalTrans for fresh updates). “ Crystal Le blog.thedyrt.com Getty Images

Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz: 5 places to catch a good wave.

Steamer Lane is one of the best surfing breaks on the West Coast.ELLIOTT ALMOND (Shmuel Thaler – Santa Cruz Sentinel) 

 

Peninsula Region

Half Moon Bay.  12 Reasons to Love The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay.

The Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay was the perfect place for our staycation.  We were not only able to catch up after my week in New York City, but escape the everyday of our area.  We were able to relax without the pressure of needing to do anything and everything (in true Jess- fashion), but could focus our energy on ourselves.  There’s no such thing as the go-go-go attitude at the Ritz, and just being there instantly puts you into a calm and relaxed state.” JESSICA  apassionandapassport.com 

San Francisco Region

San Francisco. New Hotel in a Former Military Barracks Has a Breathtaking View of the Golden Gate Bridge. 

Come June 27, Lodge at the Presidio will open as San Francisco’s closest hotel to the Golden Gate Bridge. The three-story building was constructed between 1895 and 1897 as military barracks on Infantry Row for the U.S. Army. The exterior has been entirely preserved, and the renovated interior will have historical elements and spectacular views of the bridge, Alcatraz, and the city skyline.” Miranda Smith afar.com  Courtesy of the Presidio Trust

North Bay Region

Marin County. 15 Of The Best Beaches In California To Visit.

Stinson Beach is a mere 20 miles north of the city of San Francisco and two and a half miles from the secluded (and totally lovely) Bolinas Bay. Once here, make sure you take a dip in the ocean as it’s highly rated as one of the best beaches in California for swimming. If you’re more of a rambler, then take the California hiking trails from the beach lead you to Mount Tamalpais State Park.handluggageonly.co.uk/ 

North Coast Region

Sonoma Coast

Bodega Bay. Escape Reality With a Weekend on the Sonoma Coast.

It can be hard to wrap your mind around Sonoma County, an area that starts 45 miles north of San Francisco. It’s nearly the size of Delaware and encompasses rolling vineyards, dense redwood forests and, perhaps most surprisingly, a wild and foggy stretch of coast. Many tourists know that this shoreline includes the fishing village of Bodega Bay, where Hitchcock filmed “The Birds,” but the Sonoma Coast has many other draws for travelers.Rachel Ward wheretraveler.com/ The coastline along Highway 1. (Courtesy Timber Cove Resort)

Mendocino Coast

Gualala.  Gualala Country Inn.

Hike the trails of the pristine ocean beaches, explore the Redwood forests, or kayak the Gualala River. Dive for the abalone or golf the local Scottish links-style PGA quality golf course.gualalacountryinn.com/ 

 

Humboldt County

Orick. Beaches in Orick, CA.

Surrounded by parks and a natural setting, the small town of Orick offers plenty of outdoor recreation. Humboldt Lagoons State Park offers a marshland habitat of native birds, animals and plants. It is also a prime location for fishing, boating and hiking. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, meanwhile, is most famous as the filming site of the movie Jurassic Park II. In reality, though, this natural area is a haven for preservation of native redwood forest.” californiabeaches.com 

Del Norte County

Klamath. Historic Requa Inn, Klamath, CA.

With more than a century of history, the Historic Requa Inn offers a quaint bed and breakfast in remote Klamath. Uniquely tucked away within a World Heritage Site, towering redwoods surround the inn, with various state parks, recreation areas and the coast all within a 40-minute drive.californiabeaches.com 

What You Missed in March

Magnificent trees, a comfy inn and plenty of adventure.

 

It’s the closest thing to the great trauma of being born. When a big swell hits the Wedge, already gigantic waves bounce off the jetty at the south end of Balboa Boulevard

 

Highlights and Headlines: March 2018

South Coast Region

San Diego

La Jolla Cove. Southern California isn’t exactly known for its snorkeling — the strong waves usually make it tough to see much of anything — but La Jolla Cove, just north of San Diego, is an exception. The area is ringed by tall cliffs that protect the cove from big waves, allowing curious snorkelers to explore its underwater scene. Be on the lookout for leopard sharks, sea lions and dolphins. By Allyson Reedy Shutterstock

North County
Del Mar | Hot Property – A Del Mar estate built for activist investor David Batchelder has sold for $21.5 million, making it the most expensive home sold in San Diego County in more than a decade. (Sam Chen)

Orange County Beach Towns

South Orange County
Dana Point. “On the surfing front, anybody who rides waves around here should have a brief appreciation for just how San Onofre came to be one of the birthplaces of surf culture on the West Coast. It was first surfed in the early 1920s, although it’s still debated who the first person to surf at San Onofre was. Some say it was Laguna Beach’s George “Peanuts” Larson. Others contend it was Matt Brown and Lorrin “Whitey” Harrison. Given that was nearly 100 years ago, the mystery will probably never be solved conclusively, but it’s fun to banter about.” Dana Point Times Jake Howard

Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach. “The five star Montage Laguna Beach resort receive a five-star rating from the Forbes Travel Guide for its hotel, restaurant and spa. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)”

 

Balboa, Newport and CDM
Balboa Peninsula. Asked what it’s like to bodysurf one of the most famous breaks on Earth, a regular once opined, “It’s the closest thing to the great trauma of being born.” When a big swell hits the Wedge, already gigantic waves bounce off the jetty at the south end of Balboa Boulevard; combining with the next wave, they create magnificent, malevolent monsters that can top 25 feet.

Surf City USA – Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach. Irvine and Huntington Beach Make Top Ten List of Happiest Cities in America. WalletHub released a survey of the happiest cities in America. Our own Irvine and Huntington Beach are in the top 10 happiest cities, coming in at No. 8 and 9, respectively. Orange Coast Magazine Alan Gibbons

Naples to Palos Verdes Peninsula
Long Beach. Calls for more research, education as great white shark population grows off California. “Chris Lowe, director of the Shark Lab at CSU Long Beach, said the shark population is recovering at time when more and more people are swimming, surfing and paddle boarding along the coast.” (Photo: AP FILE PHOTO) Cheri Carlson vcstar.com

South Bay

Redondo Beach. As you may infer from its name Redondo Beach features a mile and a half of sandy beachfront as you venture south of the marina and pier area. timeout.com

 

Ventura County

Ojai. Hotels & Resorts in Ojai California | Ojai Visitors Bureau | Things to Do in Ojai. Nestled in a scenic valley surrounded by citrus groves and natural beauty, Ojai is easy to explore while taking in the sights along the way. This is the perfect destination for family vacations in Southern California. Looking for a girlfriends getaway? Golf vacation? Romantic weekend? Solo getaway? Ojai has something for everyone. ojaivisitors.com

Islands along the Pacific Coast

Anacapa Island. “Anacapa is the closest island to the mainland, just 12 miles from the Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. Most of Island Packers departures to East Anacapa Island are from our location in the Channel Islands Harbor. islandpackers.com

Central Coast Region

Santa Barbara County
Santa Barbara. “Review: Hyatt Centric Santa Barbara. “The former Hotel Vista Mar Monte opened to grand fanfare in 1931. It is a California classic. There is not one hotel building but three…and they are not connected.” MATTHEW. liveandletsfly.com

 

 

 

San Luis Obispo County
San Luis Obispo. “Welcome to Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. For more than two centuries, Mission San Luis Obispo has greeted travelers, pilgrims and guests with open doors and a place to rest. At the crossroads of the Central California coast, the Mission lends heart and spirit to its vibrant surrounding community. We hope you will visit us. We are open year-round.” missionsanluisobispo.org

Monterey County
Monterey. Experience Monterey Bay at This Historic Hotel Overlooking the Surf. 30 percent off Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, a classic coastal gem perched over a magnificent bay. Don’t miss the rooftop spa and the seafood restaurant with ocean views. Courtesy of Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa. travelandleisure.com

Santa Cruz County
Judge’s tentative ruling clears the way for potentially huge fines against Coastal Commissioners. Five former and current members of the California Coastal Commission face hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines for allegedly not properly disclosing private meetings with developers and others, under a 2016 lawsuit. Joshua Emerson Smith. sandiegouniontribune.com

Peninsula Region

Half Moon Bay. Sam’s Chowder House: Brings the Coastside to the Table. Sam’s Chowder House sits steps from the shore with front row views of the Pacific—close enough to spy migrating whales leap from the water—and exceptional seafood that’s gained a loyal following and a shout-out on the Today Show. Yet, the family-owned and operated restaurant offers more than great views and grub. www.visithalfmoonbay.org

San Francisco Region

Ocean Beach. Want to Fight Sea Level Rise? Look to San Francisco’s Ocean Beach. The problem at Ocean Beach will only get worse, because the sea has nothing to do but rise in this era of rapid climate change. So will San Francisco spend the rest of its days shoveling sand in a quixotic battle against inevitability? Far from it—it’s all part of a plan to adapt to inevitability, which could set precedent for how this and other coastal cities fight rising seas. MATT SIMON SCIENCE wired.dom GETTY IMAGES

North Bay Region

Marin. West Marin saloon nurturing a new live music scene. “As the modern world speeds along at breakneck speed, challenging us all to keep up, there are still outposts from old Marin that survive and even flourish. One of them is the Papermill Creek Saloon at 1 Castro St. in Forest Knolls, a 110-year-old watering hole in the heart of the forested San Geronimo Valley that proudly advertises itself as “the best historic dive bar in Marin.”” Paul Liberatore marinij.com

North Coast Region

Sonoma Coast
Sonoma County. A Sonoma Wine Maker’s Locavore Favorites. A native of Sonoma County, Tom Gore Vineyards owner Tom Gore grew up farming and studied agriculture before launching his own wine brand. Felicia Feaster. Tim Gore Vineyards

Mendocino Coast
Mendocino. Bed and Breakfast Mendocino County. “For those who cherish the renewing power of California’s wild and beautiful North Coast, the AWARD-WINNING North Coast Country Inn Bed and Breakfast is a haven to be returned to again and again.” northcoastcountryinn.com

Humboldt County
Redwood National Park: Magnificent trees, a comfy inn and plenty of adventure. Drifting fog adds drama to Northern California’s coastline near Redwood National and State Parks. (Courtesy Marta Yamamoto) www.mercurynews.com

 

Del Norte County
See the Del Norte County Beaches. Del Norte County is the northernmost county in California and, like Humboldt County to the south, it has more wild remote beaches than urban beaches. Crescent City is the largest city in the county and it is located near the mid-point of the Del Norte Coast. californiabeaches.com

What You Missed in September

So, shh.  Don’t tell them I told you. Here’s what you missed along the South Coast Region.  They’re in no hurry to encourage you to return to their local playgrounds.

From Point Loma in San Diego to Carlsbad in North County
Here’s a handful of beaches that don’t get the credit — or the crowds — that they deserve.

While you’re busy with back-to-school schedules and work routines, locals celebrate open parking spots on narrow beach streets.  They celebrate bright gorgeous sunsets which illuminate Catalina Island on a darkening horizon.

So, shh.  Don’t tell them I told you about what you missed along the South Coast Region They’re in no hurry to encourage you to return to their local playgrounds.

Top Ten After Labor Day Stories

1. Part seven of our Seattle to San Diego excursion sets off from Santa Monica and makes a lazy path along some of Southern California’s most memorable stops before ending up in idyllic Laguna Beach. From the historic grandeur of the Queen Mary to surf-loving stretches of Huntington Beach, from Newport Beach’s seafood palaces to the alluring cottages of Crystal Cove, it’s a sunlit sojourn. Coastal Living.

From San Diego to Ventura Beach Towns

2.  “The gray whale, who was between 15 to 18 feet long, was spotted in Dana Point Harbor. It swam into a shallow children’s area called Baby Beach and circled a pier.” Daily Mail.

This aerial photo provided by DolphinSafari.com
  1.  “Luckily for San Diegans, with a little effort, you can almost always find a mellow surf spot that isn’t overrun with 12-year-old surfing prodigies and semi-professionals without day jobs. Here’s a handful of beaches that don’t get the credit — or the crowds — that they deserve. Thrillist.
From Point Loma in San Diego to Carlsbad in North County
  • Carlsbad– Terramar
  • South Carlsbad – Ponto
  • Cardiff-by-the-Sea – George’s
  • Del Mar – 8th Street
  • North Pacific Beach – Tourmaline (Old Man’s)
  • Ocean Beach – Pescadero (aka Pesky)
  • Point Loma – Garbage, Sunset Cliffs

4.  Hundreds of local surfers and ocean lovers made a symbolic pollution awareness statement when they fought through choppy waves like warriors and paddled all the way around the Ocean Beach Pier. San Diego Union Tribune

Pollution Awareness in Ocean Beach.

5.  “The Lido Bridge is a popular place for kids to jump into the water in Newport Beach and authorities are trying to make the danger apparent to the public. Los Angeles Times (File Photo)”

Look Before You Don’t Leap in Lido.

6.  “U.S. News recently published an article on the “Top 6 Experiences in Southern California” and we are proud to say that each (and more!) is found in Ventura, a laid-back beach town. Ventura has fantastic weather year-round, earning it descriptions like “the land of eternal spring.” Whether you want to surf, paddle-board, kayak, jet ski, catch a professional surfing tournament or take a surf lesson from a professional surfer, we have it all.” Visit Ventura

Visit Ventura

7. An Airstream perched above Malibu, California is available for rent starting at $500 per night. All photos via Airbnb. Curbed.

Malibu Dreaming

8. Newport Beach. “The Balboa Peninsula institution, which opened in 1977, played a slideshow of pictures from the 1980s through the 2000s. Many guests were couples who met at the bar.” Daily Pilot.

50 Years at Malarky’s

9.“The yacht Stimulus is docked on Balboa Island. A man who stole it in 2014 was arrest on suspicion of trying to steal it again on Tuesday, Sept. 20, in Newport Beach. (Photo by Sam Gangwer, Orange County Register/SCNG)”

(Courtesy of Craig Brewer)

10.Newport Beach. The program would last 1 to 2 years. The buoys are equipped with software that detects sharks larger than six feet and beams a signal to lifeguards so they can investigate or close a beach when one is spotted.

Beware. Beach Closings.

The software can tell the difference between a shark, seal, and dolphin, says Aussie surfer Ian Cairns, who lives in Orange County and is a representative for the company.  “You have a virtual barrier that simply enables sharks to be detected and within seconds the lifeguards are notified about an incursion,” he says.