CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’:
SUNSHINE, COASTLINES,
& GOOD VIBES

7 NIGHTS, 4 HOTELS, AND ONE OVERNIGHT ON THE REDEYE

For winter break this year we decided on a road trip we hadn’t done before. I have visited Los Angeles and San Francisco, but this time we wanted to do something different. We planned to stop in places we had never visited before- the small towns, the lookout points, and everything else we could see.

Highway 1, otherwise known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is what you see in movies and hear songs about. The second you enter this highway, it’s clear to understand why. Countless state parks, like Pescadero State Park, on Highway 1 make you want to stop at every lookout you see. They call them “vista points,” but the amazing thing is, even without it being designated a vista point, every view you see while driving will blow away any expectations you thought you had. It literally takes your breath away. Picture yellow flowers, and feather-like plumeras right next to the jagged coast with cliffs and rocks jutting out of the water.

MONTEREY AND CARMEL — NOT JUST A STOP, IT’S CONTEXT

Monterey

When we arrived at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, we walked straight to the ocean-facing windows—and instantly forgot about everything else. Just offshore, a group of sea otters floated peacefully in the water, wrapped in kelp and staring right back at us. It felt less like observing wildlife and more like sharing a quiet moment with them.

Inside, the scale of the aquarium is just as impressive as the wildlife. Their open-sea exhibit holds a staggering 1.2 million gallons of water—roughly the size of 44 school buses—spanning two stories. Watching the massive schools of fish glide through the water is hypnotic.

One of the most fascinating things we learned was about sardines (Monterey is known as the sardine capital of the world). Sardines have a special sensory system that allows them to move together as a single, coordinated school. Seeing thousands of them swirl together in the aquarium is mesmerizing, like an underwater ballet.

We also explored the towering kelp forest, and wandered through the glowing jellyfish exhibits.

FUN FACT: This aquarium used to be a sardine factory, and it serves as the inspiration for the movie ‘Finding Dory’.  

Carmel by the Sea

Carmel is famous for its storybook cottages, originally designed in the 1920s and 1930s by artist Hugh Comstock. He intentionally created them to resemble the charming homes found in German and English storybooks.

FUN FACT: Clint Eastwood was the mayor of this town in the 1980s. 

THE 17-MILE DRIVE

Yes, you pay to drive on this stunning, privately owned drive. Although it’s just under 17 miles, this is one of the most spectacular drives you will ever do- the views are surreal. The Lone Cypress, one of the most photographed trees in the U.S., is over 250 years old.

FUN FACT: This drive goes straight through the Pebble Beach Golf Resort

The PCH was closed near Big Sur for the last 3 years, and it literally opened up just a few days before our arrival. The road here follows the nature of the cliffs, so it tends to be very windy, featuring many switchbacks, and more twists and turns than you can imagine.

EXPLORING THE BIG SUR COAST IN THE MOST LUXURIOUS OF WAYS

Big Sur

It's hard to believe that the drive kept getting better and better. The elevation of the mountains, the jaggedness of the cliffs, the sandy coves, and the sea foam waves hitting the rocks get you every time. That goes without even mentioning the gorgeous green Saint Lucia mountains, which stand regally declaring their own beauty. 

FUN FACT: The Bixby Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in the world.

Alila Resort

If what you’re looking for is to freeze this moment and live in the view for a little longer, this is the place to stop. Pull up a chair to the most beautiful view for breakfast. Take a stroll to the Redwood Cathedral, and so much natural splendor is all contained within this amazing property. 

SEALS ALONG THE SHORE, ALONG WITH SOME HISTORY & GLAMOUR

Elephant Seal Rookery

Now this blew my mind. As we began nearing this area, all up along the coastline, the beaches were filled with seals- live seals either lying in the sand, barking at each other, playing, waddling up and down, or throwing sand on their backs. We stared in awe- all the questions pop up- who, what, where, when, why, and how. The answer- I don’t know, but let’s watch and enjoy.

FUN FACT: On a quiet day, you’ll see a few hundred seals, but on a busy day, there can be over 10,000 seals here.

Hearst Castle

This castle on the hill took 29 years to build. William Hearst built it with the help of the amazing architect Julian Morgan, and they never finished it. The land here was officially bought as a cattle and horse ranch, and it still operates today.

This castle belongs to the California State Park system. The pools here are the main draw of this area- the Neptune pool is made to look like it has ancient ruins, and the indoor Roman Pool is just as breathtaking, with its deep blue tiles, golden accents, and designs inspired by ancient Roman baths.

A EUROPEAN TOWN IN CALIFORNIA?

While Solvang is well known for its Scandinavian charm—and that’s certainly what draws visitors from all over—it’s also a simply unique place to wander. Strolling through the village feels a bit like stepping into a European storybook. Filled with bakeries, Danish specialties, and windmills around nearly every corner, Solvang feels like a tiny slice of Denmark tucked right into the middle of California. The town was founded by Danish immigrants in the early 1900s who wanted to preserve their language, traditions, and culture in a new country. Today, that heritage is still front and center.

One treat you’ll see everywhere is Æbleskiver, a beloved Danish pastry that looks like a small round pancake ball. They’re soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and typically served warm with powdered sugar and jam. Watching them cook in the special pan is part of the experience—and eating them fresh is even better.

ANOTHER NATIONAL PARK TO CHECK OFF THE BUCKET LIST:
SEALS, DOLPHINS & WHALES OH MY!

CHANNEL ISLANDS

I thought we had seen most of California’s beauty, and just when I thought it couldn’t get better than this,  it did.  These islands are made up of 7 islands along the coast of California. It is one of the least visited national parks, as it is only accessible by boat. Each of these islands looks much bigger than they are. On the way, we saw seals and dolphins (different from the species we see in Miami). We visited Anacapa Island, which is 5 miles long and features a lighthouse and natural arches.  Then we explored Santa Cruz, the largest of the islands and on the way here we even saw whales. This boat ride was a massive highlight of our trip--rated THE TOP activity by my girls. 

FUN FACT: Even though it’s a national park, 97% of Channel Islands National Park is underwater. There is no gift shop or food kiosk like other national parks.

ROSEWOOD MONTECITO

A stand alone hotel and one of the most unique properties I have been to. Meticulously decorated, filled with an amazing art collection. It has the feel of an East Coast beach resort, but the style is casual yet sophisticated, while still having a California beach vibe. There are 9 high end shopping boutiques on property- including Chanel.

FUN FACT: A railroad was built here long before the resort was constructed, and is still in use today, so it’s unique to watch the train go by, and cross the tracks while walking to the beach. 

SANTA BARBARA

Here you’ll find the perfect mix of beaches, culture, and perfect weather. Plus the drive here whether it’s from north or south is stunning too. Walk along the beach, all the way through Stearns Wharf,  or walk downtown on State Street, this city doesn’t disappoint.

FUN FACT: The Moreton Bay Fig Tree is over 200 years old.

SOME AMERICAN HISTORY TO SPRINKLE IN A BIT MORE

Reagan National Library

I have never been to a presidential library, although I know they have existed from the time of  Herbert Hoover. There are currently 15 Presidential libraries, and they serve as a museum and archive, not the traditional sense of a library. This one is overlooking a gorgeous view, and is for one of my top 3 presidents- plus the president under whom I was born. There is a full scale replica of the oval office, and a real Air Force One. Here you learn about Regan’s life policies and legacy. Don’t miss the gift shop. 

FUN FACT: Here you will find one of the largest pieces of the Berlin Wall, which also serves as part of his legacy.

CONCLUSION

Between San Francisco and LA:

I came to California looking for a change of pace, and what I found was a change of perspective. Who knew one state could pack in so much drama, from the majestic sea otters of Monterey to the regal mountains of Big Sur? I officially stand corrected: California is not just beautiful; it's aggressively beautiful—the kind that makes you pull over every five minutes, gasp dramatically, and forget how to use your camera phone. This trip was a sensory overload in the best possible way. 

So, here's the final takeaway:ditch the bucket list for a minute and grab your keys. This scenic road trip isn't just about seeing California; it's about letting California completely blow your mind, one breathtaking vista point at a time. 

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