Northern California Coastal Areas.
The Pacific Ocean is rarely warm at these latitudes, but the sun is hot and the sand cool, making the beach the perfect way to spend a summer day. Some people stay all evening, building fires out of driftwood as the evening cools. Whenever you go to the sea, bring your sunscreen, but at the Northern California coast, bring along sweaters and pants so you can enjoy the cool, starry evenings as well as the bright, sunny days. Sit on a blanket, play your guitar or talk quietly with friends while the night sky puts on a show. Build a sandcastle in the morning, then bundle up in a blanket or soak in a hot tub at night.
On the Northern California coast, you will hear seals barking and see sea lions basking on the large basalt formations that lie just off the beaches. You can watch the sun rise high, the fog roll in over the sea, and the stars come out—all in the same day. Bird watching is popular, and you may see hawks, ospreys and falcons in a single trip. For botanists, the twisted cypress trees, fields filled with purple vetch and tiny coastal wild strawberries can be found. Wild deer abound, and in some places you may even catch a glimpse of herds of elk grazing. Historic cattle and dairy ranches more than a hundred years old can be found within sight of the most amazing ocean views you can imagine, and state parks are strategically located to show you the abundance of nature along with places of historical importance in the state. Californians love the northern part of the state because just a couple of hours of driving can put them in places where nature still reigns.
Some people find that visiting Northern California isn't enough: they find a real estate agent and buy a coastal home. Fresh sea air has long been considered good for the health, and people who live near the beach reap the rewards of increased physical activity and the invigorating and exhilarating effects of sea breezes. People who live in Northern California find more opportunities for biking, walking and playing outdoors, and abundant fresh seafood encourages healthy, delicious eating habits.
Many people travel from other states to spend all or part of their summer vacation touring the Northern California coast, which is usually less crowded and much cleaner than the southern coasts. Bed and breakfast is a great option for getting personalized attention, or you can find a luxury hotel and spa to get a hot stone massage and some of the world's best cuisine. You can find private campgrounds located on the beach or inland where the redwoods meet the coast, or camp at one of the state-run campgrounds whose campsites are known for cleanliness. If you want simple lodging while you spend your days diving or lazing on the beach, a motel may suit your needs just fine. You won't ever have trouble finding accommodations if you bring your own RV—or if you book in advance!
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