California

Best Places to Visit in California

Southern California is one of the best regions for a vacation in the U.S. Over the years, it’s become one of my favorite destinations for sunshine, culture, and adventure.

I took this photo in an orchard in Northern California

Best Places to Visit in Northern California

Northern California is a land of dramatic contrasts, windswept coasts, towering redwoods, misty valleys, alpine lakes, and volcanic landscapes. From wine country vineyards to rugged wilderness, it offers some of the most enchanting scenery in the U.S. On my many road trips across the region, these were the highlights.

Aerial view of Coronado Bridge in San Diego bay in southern California

Day Trips from San Diego

San Diego is one of my favorite cities in California, but what I love most is how easy it is to take some of the best day trips from here. For me, the location is a big part of what makes San Diego so unique.

I took this photo of palm three at Huntington Beach

Day Trips in Southern California

SoCal is packed with some of the best and most exciting day trip destinations, and I’ve loved exploring so many of them.

Things to Do in Alameda

I love how Alameda blends island vibes with history, charm, and a relaxed coastal feel. It’s the best kind of getaway when you want something different without going too far.

Places to Visit in the Bay Area

For me, the Bay Area is one of the best and most unique regions in California offering the perfect mix of culture, nature, and coastal beauty.

I took this photo of the beach in Oxnard on a sunny day

Things to Do in Oxnard, California

Plan a weekend trip to Oxnard to surf, sunbathe and visit great museums.

My photo of a pink-red sunset on the coast near LA

Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

Los Angeles is surrounded by some of the best weekend getaways in California, and it’s become one of my favorite places to start an adventure.

Cool & Unusual Things to Do in Southern California

If you are planning a vacation with many different things to do, family fun, as well as diverse history and art to discover and appreciate, then Southern California is the best place to visit.

Weekend Getaways from San Diego

Weekend getaways from San Diego are some of the most unique and fun escapes in Southern California, and honestly, they’ve become some of my favorite ways to recharge while still staying close to the coast.

I think exploring Southern California by bike is the way to go

Romantic Getaways in Southern California

For me, Southern California is one of the best regions for romance because it combines unique landscapes, cozy stays, and unforgettable adventures that always bring me closer to the person I’m traveling with.

Going for a sunset stroll in San Diego, California

How Far is San Diego from LA: Driving, By Plane, Train or Bus Itinerary

How far is San Diego from Los Angeles? The distance between the two cities is about 120 miles. I love how this drive offers the best mix of coastal views, charming stops, and exciting destinations once you arrive.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind VacationIdea.com. My husband, son, and I spent 5 years on the road. Our mission? Discovering the best places to visit on a day trip or weekend getaway in the USA that every person can go on and enjoy! We base ourselves in a new place every 4 weeks weeks which has allowed us to experience each destination as a local. I love to chase unique experiences and revisit old favorites for a cool, fresh perspective. I'm also eager to learn from my fellow travelers to see what works for people and what doesn't. Whether you like great sunsets, hidden gems, places of mystery, famous attractions, or underrated experiences, here you'll find all of those recommendations from locals that won me over. Let's explore together! More about us.