We go to Catalina Island every summer. We've been visiting Catalina ever since I was in high school - so that's 20+ years. I'm surprised how many of my friends have never taken the trip over to the island. It's a whole other world out there! You feel like you've traveled back in time to wide open California spaces. Where is Catalina? Catalina Island sits offshore … [Read more...]
Beaches in OC
Find the best beaches for nature walks, whale viewing, sunsets, and family outings. I also give lessons on how to spot dolphins from shore and share tidepooling tips. Playgrounds near the beach are also included in this category. Just keep clicking the "Next Page" link at the bottom of the page. You'll even find out how to pack a bag for the beach and where to see trains while you play by the shore.
9 Things to Do When It’s Too Hot in OC
The big headline is the HEAT. I've lived in the hot, humid, and buggy South before. And I have also lived right near Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita where the high desert sure feels like the high desert. September and October are ALWAYS the hottest months in Southern California, but I ALWAYS feel the need to get cranky and complain anyways. Things to Do When It's Too Hot … [Read more...]
5 Best Toddler Beaches with No Waves
You want to know the best toddler beaches with no waves in OC? I'm going to provide you with my Top 3 plus two bonus beaches, but they come with a note of precaution. Still water beaches, meaning no waves or surf, have a general propensity for water quality issues and they can also be good stingray habitat - at least along the warm sandy edges. Check Heal the … [Read more...]
Trestles: Beach Walking for Families in a Surfer’s Paradise
Trestles or Trestle Beach is a bit of a mystery, unless you're a surfer. I'm betting the surfers like to keep it that way! We enjoyed a great off-season family outing here without tromping on anyone's saltwater turf. It's a hike down to the sand, but manageable even for little ones. Trestles is actually part of San Onofre State Beach. Huell Howser from California's … [Read more...]
Calafia Beach at San Clemente State Beach: A Tidal Treasure
The hardest thing about a trip to Calafia Beach is pronouncing it! It's part of San Clemente State Beach, except you'll pass the State Beach entrance on your left and continue to the parking lot at the end of Calafia. It's a skinny strand of beach, so you'll definitely need to watch the tides to time your visit. Location: Take Interstate 5 to San Clemente. If you are … [Read more...]