North America – Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures

Sacramento, California

Sacramento, California is a city rich in history. It began in 1839 when the Mexican government ceded 48,000 acres of land to Johann Augustus Sutter. Little did they know that the land they gave away was so valuable. In 1848, gold was discovered at Sutter's Mill and the infamous California Gold Rush began. In 1854, the city, now named Sacramento City, was selected to be the state capital.

During the Gold Rush, Sacramento saw a boom in population and activity. It was the westernmost destination for the Pony Express and the First Transcontinental Railroad. Stagecoaches, wagon trains and riverboats all stopped in Sacramento. The city became a major center for both business and agriculture in California's Gold Country.

A city with such historical importance offers much of interest to visitors. There are dozens of museums in Sacramento with many that highlight the history of the area. Visit the California State Military Museum or the California State Indian Museum. The Governor's Mansion State Historic Park, home to 13 of the past state governors, offers tours year round. The State Capitol Building is open and free to visitors, as well.

Along with all the museums for history buffs, there are plenty of activities to appeal to those with different interests. The Sacramento Zoo is home to more than 140 species of animals, including rare and endangered ones. There are many science museums and theaters that offer a wide variety of programs and exhibits.

Sacramento is an easy city to explore. The downtown area has a grid configuration that makes navigating city streets simple. Both Segway Tours and walking tours beckon travelers to explore the area at a leisurely pace. The historic Old Sacramento district is filled with interesting shops and restaurants, all set against a backdrop reminiscent of the Gold Rush era.

Located at the intersection of the Sacramento and American Rivers, Sacramento boasts plenty of sporting opportunities for river enthusiasts. Kayaking, rafting and boating are all available here. Don't miss the chance to ride the Delta King, a paddlewheel steamboat, for a real taste of boating history.

Sacramento, located in northern California, has more a more varied climate than its sister cities to the south. The coldest month is December, when the average temperature can fall into the 40s. Summers are warm, and July's highs can reach into the low 90s. The rainiest months are November through March, but from April through October the weather is warm, sunny and perfect for sightseeing. A delta breeze comes from the San Francisco Bay in the summer and often cools even the hottest summer days.

Filed Under: California, featured, Gold Country, North America, Sacramento, United States

Redding California

Redding California is one of those places that you absolutely must add to your bucket list. It’s one of the few unspoiled cities left in the country. It should come as no surprise that this city is located in the Shasta Cascade region of California, which is an area known for its unspoiled natural environments. The nickname for the city, Jewel of Northern California, is fitting. Unlike most hidden gems that offer unspoiled natural beauty, Redding is large. It’s over 61 square miles. However, accessing all the top attractions is extremely easy thanks to easy-to-follow road systems and very little traffic. While driving to all attractions, you will also appreciate the Cascade foothills.

The biggest attraction in Redding is Turtle Bay Exploration Park. This park is 300 acres, some of which is along the Sacramento River. Some people visit Turtle Bay Exploration Park for the 20-acre gardens. Others visit the art and history exhibits. Horticulture is also big here. However, the most common reason people visit Turtle Bay Exploration Park is because of its famous Sundial Bridge. This bridge was completed in 2004. It’s a pedestrian bridge that offers astounding beauty. Traveling from the East Coast of the United States all the way to Redding, California, would be worthwhile just to walk across the Sundial Bridge. It’s an experience most people don’t get, and something that you should strongly consider taking advantage of. The Sundial Bridge also connects the north and south campuses of the park. In regards to nature, other attractions in Redding include Lassen Volcanic Natural Park and Lake Shasta.

Another popular attraction in Redding is the Cascade Theater. This theater was built in 1935 and is now home for performing arts. Its art deco architecture is also greatly appreciated by many visitors. The Cascade Theater is on the National Register of Historic Places. For more history, be sure to visit Hotel Lorenz, which is four stories and was built in 1902.

Other attractions in Redding include Old City Hall and MarketFest. The latter takes place every summer and acts as a large farmer’s market, but with more variety.

Some people pass up their opportunity to visit Redding because it’s located in Northern California. All travelers should know that there is a Redding Municipal Airport. Therefore, getting here is easy. It should also be noted that Redding is located right next to Red Bluff, which offers many attractions of its own and is yet another reason to visit Redding.

Filed Under: California, featured, North America, Redding, Shasta, Shasta Cascade, United States

Shasta, California

Shasta, California, is a largely rural county in the northern part of California. The area is a common tourist destination for people trying to capture the essence of the American West. The area includes ghost towns and other remnants of the frontier era.

Shasta State Historic Park features the ruins of Shasta City. Born in the gold rush of 1849, Shasta City was the Queen City of the northern California gold mining areas. The ghost town ruins include a variety of buildings and mining structures that have stood vacant for a century. View the Shasta County Courthouse restored to the way it looked back in 1861. This building is now used as a museum for historic items along with art featuring historic California themes. In addition, a small general store caters to park visitors.

The park includes a number of areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery around old Shasta. One of the most popular is the area of the pioneer barn featuring picnic areas shaded by large trees. The area has also become popular with those looking for a romantic location for an outdoor wedding. The Ruins Trail offers views of the various buildings of the ghost town and is a popular day hike for visitors.

Shasta State Historic Park offers a number of events through the year. Some are benefits for the Save Old Shasta fund while others are private fundraisers. Enjoy Dinner in Jail in the restored 1850 lockup. This event is actually the prize for a raffle offering fine food in one of the most unique dining atmospheres in the world. Other special events might bring a little chill to the blood. Tour the cemeteries of the ghost town during the full moon each fall. The park staff hosts a heritage day to educate students in the surrounding schools about the areas history.

Shasta is located west of Redding, California. Follow Highway 299 for about six miles to reach the park and ghost town. Commercial passenger air service is not available to the immediate area.

Filed Under: featured, Shasta

Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica, California, lies just 14 miles from Los Angeles city center. Yet its beaches and well-known Third Street Promenade are somehow set apart from the LA giant that surrounds it on three sides. Before it was the chic suburb of Los Angeles County, it was a town founded by the Spanish and inhabited by the Californians. Much of the city was originally one of two rancheros that eventually became part of the town. In 1871, for instance, some 875 acres were purchased for the tidy sum of $11,000 in area where an acre is now worth millions.

The Mediterranean Climate of the area is a big attraction. There are 310 sunny days and temperatures rarely exceed the 80s or drop below the 60s. The special beach biking and skating path is one of the recognizable features of the beach, especially with its prominence in films and tv shows such as the modern hit Psych and the 1970’s hit, Three’s Company.

A Nevada senator created the Los Angeles & Independence Railroad linking Santa Monica in the 1870s. Soon visitors flocked to its beautiful beaches. By 1890, the town was busy with area commerce not just the tourism trade. A 4700-foot railroad wharf became a memorable sight on the horizon. Ships stopped at the train line there to unload, but it did not become the major port that its investors had hoped to create.

The early 1900s saw the creation of amusement piers. The five in Santa Monica offered roller coasters, casinos, theaters, restaurants and other amusements. The area grew, expanding with the addition of new ranches such as the one bought by Will Rogers, famous writer and Vaudeville star. He entertained such well-known visitors as movie mogul Walt Disney and movie star Spencer Tracy.

The mid-1900s saw the gradual change of the city into its current form. The Douglas aircraft manufacturer employed thousands in its heyday. The Rand Corporation was founded there. The Santa Monica Freeway allowed car traffic to move freely between the beach town and the ever-expanding Los Angeles. The area was home to the 1960s counterculture, which took over just as the last amusement piers failed. For years the city was divided between a more bohemian southern area and a wealthier northern one. Now the entire town is home to Hollywood executives and stars, but it still retains much of its relaxed beach charm.

Filed Under: California, featured, Hollywood, Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, North America, Santa Monica, United States

Palos Verdes, California

Situated in California west and south of the Pacific Ocean, Palos Verdes, California is a picturesque cluster of cities consisting of Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, and Palos Verdes Estates. Palos Verdes is actually a peninsula rising high above the surrounding cities of San Pedro, Torrance and Lomita. Los Angeles is north of Palos Verdes accessible by way of the 110 and 405 freeways. Palos Verdes’ history dates back thousands of years. It was originally the home of a group of Native Americans called the Tongva-Gabrielino. Around the 18th century, it was owned by Spain. In the mid 19th century, ownership switched to Mexico. A group of American investors took ownership after the turn of the 20th century. Today Palos Verdes is an affluent community of approximately 92,000 residents.

There is much to see in Palos Verdes, and the best way to see it is probably by driving. Palos Verdes is supported by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Transit Authority, which provides service in and around the Peninsula. It also provides service to Los Angeles International Airport and the Long Beach Airport. The drive along Palos Verdes Drive to the west and south offers breathtaking views overlooking Catalina Island and the Pacific Ocean. Many believe this drive rivals the 17-Mile Drive along California’s rugged coastline where you will see the much photographed Monterey cypress trees.

Another must see place is Malaga Cove. This can be found along Palos Verdes Drive West. It is a shopping plaza and library featuring Spanish Renaissance architecture. Before leaving the Malaga Cove area, be sure to stop by the Neighborhood Church. It is truly stunning. It was built by one of the finest Italian architects, and it overlooks the Pacific Ocean. As you drive along Palos Verdes Drive South, you will run into the Point Vicente Lighthouse. It sits on eye-popping cliffs facing Catalina Island. If you love to hike, you will find many trails around the lighthouse worth discovering. The centerpiece of any tour of Palos Verdes is a visit to the Wayfarer’s Chapel. Designed by Lloyd Wright, son of Frank Lloyd Wright, it is made of redwood, glass and stone from the local area. This chapel is surrounded by beautiful gardens and trees, and it too overlooks the Pacific Ocean. For individuals interested in shopping, there is the upscale Promenade on the Peninsula. There is also the Malaga Cove Plaza. It is small and charming with Italian architecture.

In addition to the must see sites, the Peninsula offers five golf courses, tennis, and horseback riding. There are six parks and the not to be forgotten South Coast Botanic Gardens. The Peninsula also has some famous residents. Tennis players Tracy Austin and Pete Sampras live there. George Takei, Mr. Sulu, of Star Trek fame has a home there. Nancy Kwan, the figure skater resides there also.

Filed Under: California, featured, Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, North America, Palos Verdes, United States

Redondo Beach, California

Redondo Beach, California is best known for its wide beach, unique pier and laid-back lifestyle. While we will cover many different features for this beachside city below, it’s first important to note that many people from Los Angeles will drive here for the day just to walk around and enjoy themselves. That fact alone is a good indication that this is a city worth visiting.

The most popular attraction in Redondo Beach is the Redondo Beach Pier. What makes this endless pier so fascinating is that it has been rebuilt time and time again. All of these adjustments have led to one of the most oddly shaped piers in the world. Instead of jutting out into the ocean, it’s more of an angular pier with sharp turns. The Redondo Beach Pier is officially called Municipal Pier, but not many locals call it that. This is just important to know in case you’re looking in a travel brochure or looking for directions on a map. The Redondo Beach Pier was even more popular than it is today prior to 1982. That was the fateful year when the nearby Seaport Village had to file for bankruptcy. This had a major impact on the amount of tourists to the pier. In 1988, the pier was damaged by two storms as well as a large fire caused by a short circuit. However, repairs and adjustments were completed. While more tourists are visiting the pier today, it’s possible that crowds will once again reach peak levels because of a planned boutique hotel next door.

Another popular spot in Redondo Beach is The Strand. This is a paved path that stretches all the way from Redondo Beach to Santa Monica, passing through Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach along the way. The majority of the path takes you along the water, and it’s a great spot for looking out over the Pacific Ocean without having to venture onto the actual beach and getting your feet full of sand. You will find many cyclists, skaters and walkers on The Strand. If you choose to venture onto the actual beach, you will likely be very pleased. This is a wide beach, and the water is warm and clean. This beach is also known for its surfing and beach volleyball.

If you would like to stroll around a beautiful area with restaurants, boutique shops and wine-tasting shops one evening, go to Riviera Village, which is located downtown. The Marina is also a good option as it features six restaurants, one bar and a seafood store.

One final note is that The O.C., Baywatch and Riptide were all filmed in Redondo Beach. If you remember the beautiful scenes in those shows, then you know that Redondo Beach is well worth visiting.

Filed Under: California, featured, Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, North America, Redondo Beach, United States

Malibu California

Malibu California has the best of both worlds, with the beautiful rugged mountains on one side and the spectacular ocean views on the other. Nestled between these two wonderful vistas is a population of 12,645. Since its incorporation on March 28 1991, this city continues to draw people in with its charm.

Located on 19.8 square miles in the northwest corner of Los Angeles County, it has become a favorite spot for both surfers and movie stars. Surfers come from all over to hit the waves, while celebrities enjoy the seclusion the mountains can provide. The Pacific Coast Highway runs directly through the center of the town. This popular California Highway carries travelers who want to enjoy the exceptional Pacific Ocean views.

Malibu’s 21 miles of coastline is dotted with some of the best beaches in the United States. Zumba Beach is one of the most popular, drawing in 800,000 visitors over Labor Day weekend alone. Malibu State Beach is the ideal spot for families. They provide surfing, swimming, and plenty of warm sand for relaxing under the sun.

It’s not just the sun worshippers and surfers who are drawn in to Malibu’s natural beauty. Malibu Bluffs Park has many family friendly activities. Visitors enjoy hiking within Trancas Canyon Park, and running and biking are popular activities at Legacy Park. People who discover the many trails here are rewarded with some of the best views in this area of California.

Malibu got its start with the Native American Chumahs. They called it Humaliwo, meaning surf sounds loudly. It is the basis of the name Malibu, as the “Hu” were not pronounced. The Spanish explorers came next. Their mark has been left in many of the area names and architecture. Soon it was flooded with Americans who fell in love with the combination of mountains and water. The Adamson House in Malibu is open to visitors, and it helps tell the rich history of the area.

The weather in Malibu is ideal. One can count on sunshine just about every day of the year. This is a point vacationer’s appeal to. With very little rainfall the summer temperatures are wonderfully in the mid 70’s. Spring and summer are between the high 60’s and low 70’s, while winter only reaches a low of 50 to 60.

Filed Under: California, featured, Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, Malibu, North America, United States

Mammoth Lakes California

Mammoth Lakes California is loved for its calm weather, beautiful mountain scenery, and excellent location. Set upon 25.3 square miles of Mono County, the area is completely surrounded by spectacular mountains. This makes Mammoth Lakes ideal for sportsmen interested in skiing or high altitude training. It is only nine miles from the famous Mount Morrison. With a population today of 8,234 people, Mammoth Lakes is the oldest incorporated community in the United States.

Mammoth Lakes’ history began in 1877 when four prospectors settled here to explore Mineral Hill. Only one year later the Mammoth Mining Company had been developed and started work there. This was the beginning of the gold rush that brought fortune hunters west in droves. By 1878 there were 1500 people in Mammoth Lake. By the 1900’s this High Sierra area had become a popular spot for tourists and lodging, much as it still is today. The Mammoth Ski Museum is a great place to view old photos and artifacts from early Mammoth Lakes as well as discover the skiing history found there.

It is the many remarkable natural features in this area that brings people in to Mammoth Lakes. There are several hot springs, lakes, and even Obsidian Dome to intrigue visitors and residents alike. Skiers are especially drawn to this part of California due to the excellent mountainous slopes available. Many nearby attractions are easily found by traveling on State Route 203. This will take you directly to Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, located in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Route 203 also goes to Minaret Summit, Devils Postpile National Monument and Rainbow Falls, and the Ansel Adams Wilderness. Another excellent spot for hiking and taking in the incredible scenic views would be nearby Owens Valley.

The weather around Mammoth Lakes is considered a Mediterranean climate. It is a surprisingly mild region, considering it is such a well know ski area. Unlike the elevations of the surrounding mountains, Mammoth Lakes enjoys less snowfall. November through March is the cold season with temperatures averaging in the high 40’s. There is a six percent chance of precipitation during these months, mostly in the form of light snow. Snowfall is most likely in March. June through September is the warm season. Temperatures are in the mid 70’s. There is little precipitation then, mainly light rain. Winds are gentle. Slight breezes are most common.

Filed Under: California, featured, High Sierra, Mammoth Lakes, North America, United States

South Lake Tahoe, California

Many people instantly picture fun and recreational activities when they think about South Lake Tahoe, California. The area is a fantastic place for water and snow skiing as well as hiking, mountain biking, camping and more. When you want to enjoy one of the most beautiful locations in the United States, check out South Lake Tahoe, California.

With a population of over 21,000 people, the High Sierra town of South Lake Tahoe is a big tourist destination with many businesses that are geared toward serving vacationers and recreational tourists. The town was incorporated in 1965 and includes several hotels and restaurants as well as ski resorts and other recreation areas. As a destination stop for those who are vacationing at Lake Tahoe, the city of South Lake Tahoe is a convenient place to pick up supplies and rent equipment for a day on the lake or to be prepared for camping in the mountains.

The climate around the town of South Lake Tahoe can be classified as a Continental Mediterranean Climate. The California region is mountainous with temperatures in the summer time averaging in the high 70's while the winter temperatures fall in the mid to low teens with lots of snow and rainfall. The weather for 8 months out of the year is incredible with a very comfortable environment for outside recreation while the winter months become incredibly cold.

South Lake Tahoe became widely known as a great winter sports destination when the 1960 Winter Olympics were held in Squaw Valley, just a few miles from town. The notoriety that came about from the Olympics along with the great ski facilities began to attract more and more sports enthusiasts to the area, creating a widely known tourist destination for skiers and others.

The town of South Lake Tahoe, California also offers some great historic tours and activities for you to enjoy, including the Tallac Historic Site where you can explore the historic summer homes of the some of wealthier families during the early 20th century and see displays and exhibits of how they lived during their summers at the lake. The Tallac historic site also includes a museum as well as detailed facts about the area. Other attractions in the area include the Taylor Creek Visitor's Center, the Camp Richardson Corral and a number of Day Spas in the area for you to enjoy during your visit to the area.

Filed Under: California, featured, High Sierra, North America, South Lake Tahoe, United States

Long Beach, California

Visitors to Long Beach, California, find a lot to enjoy. The Southern California city features cultural, historical and natural attractions offering something for people of all interests. The community is dominated by the harbor and has a long history of serving the maritime trades.

Long Beach, like much of coastal Southern California, enjoys a Mediterranean climate. This means moderate temperatures year around with little seasonal change. The difference between the average high in January and the average high in July is 13 degrees. Winter months do bring some fog and rainfall but still produce a majority of enjoyable days. Visitors year around should find enjoyable weather at Long Beach.

Beaches are a primary attraction at Long Beach but certainly not the only things to see. Visit the RMS Queen Mary at Long Beach Harbor. This ship was the fastest thing on the oceans during its days as an ocean liner. The ship now is permanently docked and serves as floating museum and hotel. One of the largest aquariums in the world, the Aquarium of the Pacific, is located at Rainbow Harbor. The aquarium is an educational institution as well as home to displays of more than 10,000 fish and other maritime animals. Pet lovers may want to spend some time on Rosie’s Dog Beach. This is the only beach in Los Angeles County allowing dogs to roam off leash.

Art lovers can enjoy some time at the Long Beach Museum of Art. This museum includes about 3,000 items in a variety of media. Other art venues include the Museum of Latin American Art along with the many street murals throughout the city.

If Music is your passion, take in a concert of the Long Beach Symphony at the Terrace Theater located at the city’s convention and entertainment center. Musical Theatre West also shares the convention and entertainment facilities producing great musical productions. The Long Beach Shakespeare Company presents a world-renown summer schedule of productions.

Sports fans can enjoy the Long Beach Grand Prix. This Formula One auto race has been held annually since 1975 on the streets of downtown Long Beach. The city is also home to international water polo competitions.

Long Beach is located directly south of Los Angeles with the two cities sharing a boundary for a brief distance near the ocean. It is served by Los Angeles International Airport for international flights and the John Wayne Airport in Orange County along with the Bob Hope Airport at Burbank.

Filed Under: California, featured, Long Beach, Los Angeles County, North America, United States