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Summer Guide to Southern California

18 Jun 2019
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Val's Recommendations

From world-class entertainment to extraordinary beaches, our summer guide will help you get the most out of your summer trip to 'So Cal'.

So Cal Activities

So, what activities does Southern California have anyway? Below you will find some of the fun things to do that keep us entertained day in and day out.

So Cal Dining

  • Coco's Bakery & Restaurant - A traditional eatery that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, offers mouth-watering pies, desserts and bakery items.
  • The Pizza Press - If you like your pizza custom, you'll love The Pizza Press' 'Publish Your Pie" feature where you pick your toppings! They also offer a selection of salads, as well as a wide variety of tasty craft beers. 
  • Umami Burger Anaheim - One of our favorite burger places in all of Southern California, Umami Burger has some of the best burgers around and offers vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Shopping in So Cal

  • Downtown Disney - During one of your trips to the famous park, why not include a shopping trip while you're at it? Downtown Disney is filled with various shops and restaurants where you can bring souvenirs home! 
  • South Coast Plaza - The largest shopping center by volume on the west coast! You'll find whatever you and your family need at this shopping mecca! 
  • Westfield Mainplace Mall - Take a retail therapy day at Westfield Mainplace Mall, home to more than 100 retail stores and restaurants!

So Cal Golf Courses

  • The Links at Monarch Beach - Come experience this one-of-a-kind golf resort that few can match due to its blend of stunning natural beauty and the variety of challenges. Designed by master golf architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., this challenging and fair course attracts hobbyists and professionals alike.
  • Tustin Ranch Golf Course - Voted the best "Orange County Golf Course and Driving Range" for several years and was even named "Course of the Year" in 2008. You will not want to miss the opportunity to have tee time here! And for those inexperienced players, the golf school is equally impressive and has some of the best instructors in the nation. 

So Cal Beaches

Stroll through magical golden sands, make a sand castle, or sunbathe at one of the many gorgeous Southern California beaches. Here are some of our recommended beaches:

  • Laguna Beach - Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, this beach is one of the top beaches in Southern California and features exotic sea caves, tide pools, ocean side bluffs, natural tide pools and more.
  • Newport Beach - Known for its boat-filled harbor and two beautiful beaches the Wedge and Corona del Mar State Beach.
  • Santa Monica Beach - Is a beautiful 3.5-mile long beach separated by a world-famous pier and is home to several small parks, picnic areas, playgrounds, and more.

So Cal Events

Catch a show whether it's a concert, Off-Broadway production or cheer on your favorite team when while attending a regular season baseball game. Find a list of recommended events that you won't want to while on vacation: 

  • Los Angeles Dodgers Baseball - Watch professional athletes go head-to-head in a nine-inning stretch for a chance to win during regular season baseball games. And, if you're lucky you might even catch a fly ball!
  • Segerstrom Center for the Arts / Performing Arts Center - The complex is home to three different sized theatres that host Broadway productions, ballet performances, various symphonies including the Pacific Symphony, Philharmonic Society and Pacific Chorale, as well as touring musical acts and more. 

Museums around So Cal

Give your family the experience of something awe-inspiring when you take them to one of the many amazing Southern California museums. 

  • Bowers Museum - Visit one of Orange County's finest and largest museums, the Bowers Museum celebrates arts and cultures throughout the world.
  • International Surfing Museum - Learn the history of Southern California's most famous sport, surfing. The International Surfing Museum is a must for anyone planning a trip to this beautiful area. 
  • Nixon Library - Learn about the 37th president of the United States, Richard Nixon. The Nixon Library is home to historical galleries, a replica of his exact Oval Office, and even his helicopter.

So Cal Theme Parks

Southern California is home to some of the world's best theme parks. Below are some of our favorites:

  • Disneyland - Hang out with everyone's favorite mouse, visit magical Disney themed parks, and we are really excited about 2019's newest attraction, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge!
  • Knotts Berry Farm - A hidden gem in theme parks and a local's choice in entertainment; with exciting amusement rides, family-friendly shows, and a summer-only inclusive water park, this is a must-visit for your vacation.
  • Legoland - LEGOLAND California is only one of select few lego toy-inspired theme parks in the world. It is famous for creating life-size scenes created entirely out of legos.

Now that you know what you're going to do, it's time to book one of our Southern California vacation rental properties. Find your ideal vacation rental today.