Mammoth Lake, California

Pinnacles National Park is the closest National Park to me. Surprisingly this was only my second time visiting. This place is amazing! The last time I was here was four years ago now. We went in the spring time, everything should be green and lush and blooming wildflowers everywhere right? WRONG....

A drive “over the hill” takes you from the hustle and bustle of Silicon Valley to the lively coastal city of Santa Cruz, lined with forested mountains and surf-ready beaches. With my Gerber Gear ComplEAT Camp Cook Collection in tow, I headed through the windy Highway 17 for an overnight trip. Da...

We can’t get enough of Santa Cruz — this mellow beach town has everything you need to make for a jam-packed weekend of outdoor adventure. There’s killer surf — for beginners and experts alike — memorable hikes, mountain bike trails, and oh yeah, a glut of microbreweries where you can reward your ...

There's nothing like a great meal after a day of exploration, am I right? Something about being out in nature makes the food taste richer, the beers more refreshing, and calling for seconds on dessert less embarrassing. Or maybe it's just me on that last one. Santa Cruz, on California's Central C...

From coastal campgrounds to elegant digs surrounded by towering redwoods, this laid-back central California city has it all. Dreaming of life on the coast? This spring, Visit Santa Cruz County is giving away a two night, three day stay in Santa Cruz. The winner will receive a stay in a two-bedroo...

Sunny beaches, trails winding through old-growth forests, refreshing rivers, and picturesque coastline — Santa Cruz has it all. Whether you’re into adventures on land or on the sea, this hip city on California’s central coast delivers. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: Year-round Weather: Average t...

1. Sea Lions at the Santa Cruz Wharf The California sea lion population has tripled in the past 40 years, and the Santa Cruz Wharf, built in 1914, is a common resting spot for these gorgeous pinnipeds. Park anywhere on the wharf (first 30 minutes are free, then there's a small fee) then walk out...

Pebble Beach, Monterey Bay, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium are some of the first things that come to mind when Monterey County is mentioned, but those who truly know it, understand Monterey is home to a massive and ever-growing collection of public land and outdoor adventure assets. From Pinnacles...

To make the most of a trip to Monterey, you don't need to go overboard on the gear. With beautiful weather, easily-accessible adventures, and so much good food to eat (see what I'm talking about here), you really just need a few go-to's to take advantage of all this area has to offer. Here are fi...

Looking for a spot to cozy in for the holidays by the sea? Look no further than Asilomar Hotel and Conference Grounds, a 107-acre property whose lodges and cabins shine during the festive winter months. Go solo, go with your special someone, bring the whole family, meet a group of friends. No mat...