Southern California

Los Angeles County and the city of Los Angeles are second in size only to New York. There is no lack of sunny beaches and bustling waterfront areas along the Southern Coast. Southern California is a large area where most of the population of California lives.

Southern California is famous for its beaches. From the forbidden private areas lined with multi-million dollar homes to the outdoor carnival that is Venice Beach, with its flamboyant street performers and ties to the 60's band, The Doors. California beaches are great for a number of things- from snorkeling at La Jolla Beach to surfing at Huntington Beach.

California Beaches are the center of outdoor fun. Forget the shopping malls; in Southern California the beaches are where it's at. From the Malibu Pier to the Boardwalk on Venice Beach, beautiful California beaches are the setting for the most fun you will have on a vacation. You can wander through the neat surf shops and look into some lessons, admire the street artists work, or just enjoy a cold drink at one of the beachside bars and take it all in.

Besides the sand and surf, another major reason people come to Southern California is Disneyland. This park isn't just for kids anymore; there is the main resort but there is also the Disney California Adventure Theme Park. Adults will enjoy this park, as will all members of the family. Disneyland is located in Anaheim, which is about 30 miles south of Los Angeles.

Santa Barbara is another major city in Southern California. This city is 100 miles north of Los Angeles, and it is a relaxing alternative to the bustle of San Diego and the glitz of LA. The houses here are built in a Spanish Mission style, reflecting its history, part of which included a requirement that all downtown buildings meet the same Spanish revival architectural style.

San Diego is the other major city in the area. With a world-class zoo, over 70 miles of beaches, and interesting neighborhoods filled with different ethnicities. Exciting theme and Adventure parks like SeaWorld and Lego Land makes San Diego perfect for family vacations. Many cruises to South America and Mexico depart from here, adding even more visitors to a very popular city in Southern California.

Whether you want to explore Hollywood or hang out at the cool beaches in San Diego, Southern California has no lack of the fun and sun you are looking for on your California Vacation.