Southern California

California. The name conjures up images of sun, surf, and beautiful people everywhere. Southern California fits this image almost perfectly. While they do have a colder period in the winter months, the weather is typically wonderful year-round, and they do not have a hurricane season like many of the warmer States on the east coast. Southern California has something for the entire family.

Of course Disneyland is the most popular destination for both kids and adults. It resides in Anaheim and you don't want to miss it if you're anywhere near. In fact there is so much to see and do that you want to allow as many days as possible. Many of the hotels are within walking distance. This will make it easy for you to take a break from the rides and go back to your hotel for a swim and maybe a short nap. During peak seasons, Disneyland is packed. If you are visiting during one of these times be prepared for long lines, both to get into the park and to experience the rides. There are rides for adults and children alike. If you have children, be sure to take pictures of them with the Disneyland characters. They wander the park daily and interact with visitors.

If the Disneyland rides are a little too tame for you, Six Flags Magic Mountain in Los Angeles may be the place to go. This mega-amusement park is filled with rides that will get your heart pumping and your adrenaline flowing. Six Flags Magic Mountain offers some of the most thrilling rides in North America. The highlight is the huge variety of roller coasters this park offers. These coasters are not for the faint of heart. Six Flags Magic Mountain boasts some of the fastest, highest, and most innovative coasters around. As with Disneyland, during the peak season line-ups can be very long, be sure to go early and on a weekday if you can.

Another major selling point for Southern California is its ocean beaches. Because of the refreshing breeze generated by the ocean, you can easily be tricked into spending too many hours in the sun. Too often people get dangerously sunburned. Be sure to carry sun block with you whenever you go out. Among the most beautiful beaches are Malibu and Santa Monica. Spend a day at Santa Monica shopping on the Promenade and visiting Pacific Palisades Park. You'll find both funky shops and higher end stores. The palisades are so beautiful with their high cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the palm trees waving in the breeze. The beaches are well kept but parking spaces fill up fast, so get there early.

When you plan your visit to Southern California allow enough time to sun worship, site-see, and generally have a great time with your family.