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Fast Facts About The West Coast
- States And Regions That Make Up The West Coast: California, Hawaii, Nevada
- Timezones include: Pacific Standard Time (PST), Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST)
- Most Populous Cities: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Oahu, Hawaii
Geographic Places of Note
- Mountains to see: Sierra Nevada Mountains, White Mountains
- Hawaii has several active volcanoes including Kilauea and Mauna Lau.
- Notable bodies of water include the Pacific Ocean and Lake Tahoe in California.
- Nevada is home to the Mojave Desert.
WEST COAST DESTINATIONS
CALIFORNIA - Accommodations, beaches, activities & food
Accommodations
Budget-Friendly
Budget-friendly options are less than $100/night-- no-frills accommodations that offer guests basic amenities such as air conditioning, wireless internet, television, and refrigerator. Most people choose these accommodations because they tend to have clean rooms at reasonable prices; while their locations and amenities are not top-notch, they have the best overall value.
- Grant Plaza Hotel, San Francisco
- Stay Classy Hotel, San Diego
- Big Pines Mountain House of Tahoe, Lake Tahoe
Mid-Range
Mid Range accommodations generally range between $100-$200/night, and often have additional amenities such as free breakfast, or an on-site pool. Mid range properties are also usually centrally-located close to local attractions, making them a more convenient option for those looking to explore.
- Freehand Los Angeles
- Nakoma Resort, Clio (near the peaks of the Lost Sierra)
- Phoenix Hotel, San Francisco
High-End
High-End accommodations are $300 and up/night and offer the best amenities that often include pool(s), saunas/jacuzzi, on-site spas, etc. Often the location is the destination, as these accommodations are known for their luxe rooms, dazzling, decor, and fabulous locations (usually with a view).
- Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
- The Landing Tahoe Resort & Spa
- The Ritz Carlton, San Francisco
California Travel Guides
Best Hikes In California
California is known for its stunning outdoor beauty, including a little bit of everything--sky-high mountain ranges; crystal clear lakes, and towering redwood forests that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Most of California's state parks are ideal for hiking, and offer options for everyone from the casual outdoor aficionado to the expert backpacker.
- Guide To Anza-Borrego Park's Best Hiking Trails
- The Best Campsites For Hiking
- Hiking At Mammoth Lakes
Best Beaches In California
California's coastline is world-famous because of its stunning beaches that offer sun, sand, and surfing. Gorgeous weather; amazing views; and the lovely Pacific waves make this Western state a top tourist destination for some of America's best beaches.
- Seal Beach: An Underrated CA Gem
- California's Best Beaches
- Discover California's Glass Beach
- California's Pink Sand Beach
Top Sights In California
California is home to some of the country's most beautiful National Parks--full of jaw-dropping scenery, there's something for everyone, whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just want to relax and take in the spectacular views.
- The Ultimate Guide To Hiking In Yosemite National Park
- Must-Have On Your Bucket List: Joshua Tree National Park
- Guide to Sequoia National Park Home Of The Largest Living Tree
Visit Disneyland
Disneyland is one of California's top tourist attractions--and it's easy to see why. Family-friendly and with a myriad of attractions, Disneyland is the perfect escape for visitors who want a little bit of adventure-and magic.
- Disneyland Is For Adults, Too
- The Only Guide You'll Ever Need To See The Best Of Disneyland
- Disney California Adventure Vs. Disneyland: How Are They Different?
Things To Do In California
From beaches to forests; charming towns to bustling big cities--California has it all. Sightsee in some of the state's most well-known cities, or take to the great outdoors for spectacular scenery and plenty of fun things to do--whatever your vacation plans, California has something for everyone.
- Explore CA On A Road Trip To Remember
- California's Gold Rush Towns Are A Sight To See
- Bucket List Destinations For Families Traveling Through California
- Hearst Castle: Visit One of California's Most Historic National Landmarks
Travel Guides for San Francisco
The city by the bay is one of California's most well-known cities--known for its lovely weather and popular tourist attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Chinatown, there's plenty to see and do in this diverse and bustling Northern California city.
- San Francisco's Chinatown Is A California Must-See
- Bike Across The Scenic Golden Gate Bridge
- A Classic San Francisco Day Trip
Food To Discover In California
Best Restaurants In California
California's food scene is both eclectic and exciting; and, depending on where you stay, you will be able to find everything from the freshest seafood to world-class, intercontinental cuisine. Wineries, breweries,
- The Best Views & Brews On The West Coast
- San Francisco Seafood Scene Is Both Innovative And Chic
- Redondo Beach: Restaurants With A View
- The Ultimate Foodie Guide To CA's Mexican Cuisine
HAWAII - Things to do, top sights & cuisine
Accommodations
Budget-Friendly
Budget-friendly options are less than $100/night-- no-frills accommodations that offer guests basic amenities such as air conditioning, wireless internet, television, and refrigerator--but, unlike other places, Hawaii's budget-friendly options also usually come with a view, so you often don't have to sacrifice location to save money.
Mid-Range
Mid Range accommodations in Hawaii generally range between $150-$300/night, and are considered a distinct upgrade from budget-friendly options, usually because of additional luxe amenities (such as pools, onsite spas, and rooms with a view) and a resort-like atmosphere. All of the options below offer spectacular views and unique experiences that make the extra splurge worthwhile.
High-End
Hawaii's high-end accommodations are typically $500-$1,000 and up/night and offer the best amenities and luxury experiences. They are often a full resort experience that includes a plethora of top-notch amenities, stellar views, and lush atmospheres that make for a vacation of a lifetime. A high-end accommodation in Hawaii is definitely an investment--but those who want a full island experience will appreciate the grandeur of these top-of-the-line spots.
Hawaii Travel Guides
Best Hiking In Hawaii
The islands of Hawaii are filled with diverse outdoor adventures that are also some of the best ways to see and experience all this top tourist destination has to offer. Hawaii is filled with fun activities for every type of adventurer--especially those who love a good hike.
- Hawaii Hiking Guide: Kauai
- The Best Scenic Hikes In Oahu
- Experience Hawaii Like A Local
- 10 Unforgettable Hawaii Adventures
Best Beaches In Hawaii
Hawaii is famous for its glorious beaches that are some of the world's most beautiful spots. Pristine and perfect, the sand and sun of the state's best beaches are definitely worth a look--sunbathe, sightsee, or take a dip in the clear blue waters while enjoying the beaches Hawaii is known for.
- Hawaii's Red Sand Beach Is A Sight To Behold
- Learn More About Hawaii's 'Forbidden' Island
- Spend The Day On Hawaii's Island Of Lana'i
Top Sights In Hawaii
Hawaii is filled with wonderful and exotic attractions and is home to some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet. Its many volcanoes and beaches are just the tip of the iceberg--there's something for everyone who wants to embrace Hawaii's unique culture, scenic landscapes, and impressive local attractions.
- Volcanoes National Park Is A Must-Visit For Vacationers
- Take A Day Trip On The Scenic Road To Hana
- Get Historic At The Pearl Harbor Museum
Things To Do In Hawaii
While it's worth it to visit Hawaii just for the beaches, there's plenty of other fun activities that make the islands a fun and unique vacation destination.
- Catch Some Of Hawaii's Best Waves
- Take A Kona Coffee Tour
- Off The Beaten Path Island Excursions
- Under The Sea Hawaii Snorkeling
Food To Discover In Hawaii
Top Hawaiian Cuisine
Hawaii's unique culture extends to its world-class cuisine that is both fresh and exotic--colorful fruits, delicious seafood, and signature cultural classics are just the beginning when sampling the best island cuisine.
NEVADA - Accommodations & guide to Las Vegas
Accommodations
Budget-Friendly
Budget-friendly options are between $20-$50/night--but in Nevada (especially Las Vegas), even no-frills accommodations can go above and beyond basic amenities like air conditioning, wireless internet, television, and refrigerator. Most people choose these accommodations because they tend to have clean rooms at reasonable prices, though some do offer extra amenities like an on-site pool and proximity to local attractions.
Mid-Range
Mid Range accommodations generally range between $100-$200/night, and often have additional amenities that are upgrades to budget-friendly locations. Better views, more luxe decor and atmosphere, and popular, centrally located addresses make these spots more desirable for those looking for some luxury without breaking the bank.
High-End
High-End accommodations in Nevada are $300 and up/night and offer the best amenities that often include pool(s), saunas/jacuzzi, on-site spas, etc. Resort-level amenities are designed to impress and these luxe spots are usually close to the action. Known for top-level rooms, dazzling, decor, and fabulous locations (usually with a view), these accommodations are the best money can buy.
Nevada Travel Guides
Outdoor Activities In Nevada
Nevada has its own distinctive outdoor scenery that goes beyond its desert sands. For those who want to explore the great outdoors, there are plenty of parks that are great for hiking, camping, sightseeing, and scoping out the state's natural beauty.
Top Sights In Nevada
While Las Vegas is one of Nevada's most visited cities, this Western state has plenty of natural beauty that is worth a trip away from the city. And don't let the state's desert reputation fool you--there are plenty of lakes and forests filled with their own stellar scenery in addition to the hot sands of the Mojave Desert.
- The Best Views In Las Vegas
- Take A Trip To Lovely Lake Tahoe
- The Hoover Dam Is Definitely Worth The Trip
- Experience The Nevada Outdoors At Lake Mead
Guide For Las Vegas
Las Vegas may seem overwhelming for first-time visitors--the lights, the casinos, the shows; it's truly a unique and singular experience. Having a basic itinerary before visiting is a great way to introduce you to Sin City before you even get there.
- Las Vegas: The Perfect Guide For First-Time Visitors
- Family-Friendly Vegas Tips
- What It's Like To Stay At Caesar's Palace
- Las Vegas Has The World's Largest Ferris Wheel
Things To Do In Nevada
Nevada is so much more than Las Vegas--a Wild West vibe, a history of extraterrestrial sightings, and the Biggest Little City in the World are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploring The Silver State.
- The Old-Timey, Wild West Town Of Virginia City
- Reno Is Definitely Worth A Visit
- Lincoln County Nevada Is UFO Country
- What To Do In Nevada...Besides Vegas
Food To Discover In Nevada
Top Nevada Cuisine
Nevada cuisine is as varied as the state itself--and one only needs to visit Las Vegas to get a taste of some of the best cuisine the state is known for. From high-end restaurants to sumptuous buffets, there are plenty of fab finds for foodies everywhere.
- Nosh On Sin City's Most Expensive Desserts
- Where To Score A Great Breakfast In Vegas
- From Steak To Sushi: Dining At The Luxe Bellagio
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