Page 55 - 2015 Travel Guide to California

CA.FAMILY FUN
BY JILL K. ROBINSON
Nothing but Fun
Pleasures for kids of all ages
CALIFORNIA’S
BEACHES
Up and down the state, the sea
draws people of all ages to play in
its surf, paddle in its foam and, of
course, frolic on its sandy beaches.
From the sunny, warm-water
stretches of Southern California to
the fog-shrouded, cooler climes of
the north, the beaches are a natural
playground for all manner of fun,
whether organized volleyball,
sandcastle competitions or simply
digging with a plastic shovel and
bucket. Bring the kids!
California may be big, but the state
needs all that space to pack in an endless
list of fun for families, which ensures that
there’s always something for everyone.
Choose from theme parks for fantasy and
wild fun, natural wonders for an escape
from civilization, historical spots for edu-
cation and discovery, and famed
landmarks for a little extra sparkle. It’s easy
to find the magical combination that fits
your family perfectly.
Natural Wonders
California’s 279 state and 32 national parks,
countless wild wonders, and more than
840 miles of coastline all combine to give
visitors and locals alike a vast selection of
places to go outside and play. Start with
Yosemite National Park, the jewel of the
High Sierra. Famous for waterfalls,
camping, wildlife and granite monoliths,
the park is accessible for light experiences
as well as serious outdoor activities. Junior
Ranger programs are available for eager
young naturalists.
From Mount Tamalpais State Park near
San Francisco Bay to the giant Anza-Bor-
rego Desert State Park on the east side of
San Diego County, the state parks cover ter-
rain from desert to alpine forest. The
second-deepest lake in the U.S., Lake Tahoe
lures visitors to its shores with its ethereal
blue color no matter the season for water
activities, hiking or winter snow fun.
2015 T R AV E L G U I D E TO C A L I F O R N I A 53