Travel pros pick 5 dream destinations for California weekend trips including a SoCal beach you might have avoided
Travel experts recently revealed California as the best state to spend a long weekend exploring.From mountains to beaches, desert expanses to old-growth forests, the Golden State has proven to be the preferred place for a three-day getaway.
And with Labor Day on the horizon, Travel + Leisure has shared their picks for the five best places to visit.According to the outlet, California weekenders can “take in world-class culture on a short city break or get a taste of Europe without the international flight.Add California’s celebrated food and wine, plus mild year-round weather in much of the state, and it’s hardly surprising it came out on top.”Some commenters were less museful about the prospect of a long California weekend.
“Don’t forget bumper-to-bumper traffic along scenic roads, $6-gallon gas, and $30-dollar hamburgers.All to remind us of what California once was and will never be again.
True Californian Dreamin’.”Wistful dream or gold mine gutted, these are T+L’s picks for the best California getaways.Dana Point made the list as a gateway for a great getaway, with Lucinda Rogers, the guest relations manager at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, describing the Orange County locale as a “true harbor city” with “authentic coastal energy.” Indeed, Dana Point is anchored by its connection to the sea, including a working waterfront, deep ties to sailing culture, and year-round whale migrations.
Rogers recommends visitors rise with the sun to enjoy Monarch Beach at its blessed emptiest.“It’s peaceful, the views are incomparable, and you get a completely different feel for the coastline in the morning.” After watching the sun climb out over the Pacific, she recommends booking a whale watching tour and closing out the day with a full plate of fresh local seafood and a generous glass of California wine.One commenter heartily agreed with Rogers’ recommendation.
“Dana Point is a gem and not like most of Southern...