West Coast

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 "America's Finest City" so unique.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

My photo of tulips during Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Best Places to Visit in Washington State

The first time I came to see the whales. Now I keep going back because I think that Washington State is one of the best places to visit in the U.S. It combines unique landscapes, vibrant cities, and underrated gems that always leave me with new favorite memories.

Romantic Weekend Destinations on the West Coast

When I’m dreaming of a quick romantic escape, the West Coast is always one of my favorite regions to explore. For me, it’s one of the best places for couples because it offers such a unique mix of coastal towns, wine country retreats, mountain getaways, and vibrant cities

Best Places to Visit in Oregon

The best part about the places to visit in Oregon is the variety: coastal escapes, vibrant cities, wine country, and mountain adventures.

I took this stunning orange-red sunset photo over the Pacific

Beaches on the West Coast

Beaches on the West Coast are some of the most unique and awe-inspiring coastal escapes in the United States. They’re easily among my favorite places for both adventure and relaxation.

Tillamook: Cheese Factory Tours, Hiking & Ocean Views

Tillamook is the delightful county seat of Tillamook County, Oregon, located along the southeastern edge of the Pacific Ocean's beautiful Tillamook Bay.

The Largest Cities in Oregon

Oregon is the 9th largest state in terms of area and the 27th largest in terms of population.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind VacationIdea.com. My husband, son are frequent travelers and spent 5 years on the road discovering some of the best places to visit in the USA. 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 things to do near me 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.