Whenever you get the chance to explore the stunning beauty of Southern California by taking a summer road trip. Visit three of the state's most well-known cities – San Diego, San Clemente and Santa Barbara.
Start your road trip this summer in sunny San Diego. The city is known for all its family-oriented attractions such as SeaWorld and San Diego Zoo. However, If you are traveling with your better half or with your friends you can still find yourselves with lots of things to do in San Diego to discover. The Gaslamp Quarter is an eclectic part of Downtown San Diego that you will most definitely find interesting. Within the Gaslamp Quarter are sixteen blocks of novelty shops, historical sights, hip and trendy restaurants and bars, Victorian and Queen Anne houses, and numerous hotels. You can check in at the Horton Grand Hotel, right in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, to free yourself of your luggage and start your San Diego adventure. You can join the guided Gaslamp Quarter Walking Tour to get to know the area. Stop by at The Field for lunch for some authentic Irish cuisine after the tour. Continue walking around Downtown San Diego on your own and you will realize that each street has a unique character that will intrigue visitors and entice them to stop for a closer look. Visit San Diego's Little Italy for a little Italian experience in California. Head to Anthology for dinner with a live jazz band for your background music. Chances are, you might even catch live performances of jazz legends such as Mose Allison during your visit.
Drive a little more than an hour from San Diego to San Clemente to continue your summer road trip. San Clemente beaches are among the most beautiful beaches in Orange County and have increasingly become some of the hottest vacation destinations in Southern California during the summer. The San Clemente Pier is just within walking distance from the metered parking along Parque Del Mar. You will find mostly surfers in the north side of the pier, while swimmers and body boarders enjoy themselves in the south side. Whether you choose to get stoked or simply bask under the sun, you are sure to enjoy the summer in the city. There has been a boom in restaurants and shops in Downtown San Clemente. Cafe Calypso, according to residents and a great number of visitors, serves the best breakfast meals, and if you are looking for a filling lunch or dinner, the Beach Fire Bar and Grill is highly recommended. Accommodations are aplenty in San Clemente. There is one that will surely suit your taste and budget such as the San Clemente Beach Travelodge.
Carry on with your road trip the following day with a more or less three-hour drive to Santa Barbara. The city is a haven for those who are looking for recreational activities. Head to the waterfront where the choices of transportation are beach bicycles, roller blades, roller skates, skateboards or your own ever-reliable pedals. The beach offers all sorts of summer activities such as swimming, surfing, volleyball and soccer. Dining options are spread all over Santa Barbara. Try some exquisite German cuisine at the Dutch Garden Restaurant while listening to the music of the restaurant's umpah band.
Whether you are a Southern California regular or visiting for the first time, you are sure going to enjoy exploring the region. With cities like San Diego, San Clemente and Santa Barbara, you are most likely to take summer road trips to Southern California year after year!
I love California, I was born/raised here and it just does not compare to anywhere else. If you are taking a road trip this summer I would really recommend going up and down the California coast. Also this summer in California the Jack in the Boxes are running a great promotion to help make the most of the money you spend at the pump. You love those tacos from Jack in the Box, don’t deny it.—the crispy goodness with the melted cheese, hot sauce and crisp lettuce on the inside. With gas becoming more and more expensive, Jack wants to help you fill your stomach. Bring any gas receipt to Jack in the Box next Thursday, June 26th, and get TWO FREE TACOS. No gimmicks, no hidden fees, no purchase necessary—just two free tacos! Let all your friends know if they like taaaaacos
Posted by: Blair Landon | June 23, 2008 at 03:59 PM