The desert of California is home to sand dunes and views of the ocean.
Southern California is a large region with a vast expanse of desert and several metropolitan areas, including Los Angeles and San Diego. The famous Route 66 also runs through Southern California and has many tourist attractions alongside the road. Southern California offers numerous fun things for travelers to do, whether you choose to explore nature or enjoy city life.
Joshua Tree National Park
The Joshua Tree National Park is located in the desert of Southern California. During the spring, the desert comes alive with nature and wildlife, including the blossoming of yellow and cream-colored wildflowers and bird nesting of several species such as the roadrunner and mocking bird. Visitors to the Joshua Tree National Park can go hiking on one of the many nature or hiking trails, some of which lead to artifacts and other remnants from the California Gold Rush. Joshua Tree also has rock climbing and peaks over 5,000 feet for people who enjoy hiking to high altitudes. Overnight visitors can stay at one of the nine campgrounds. Visitors should be sure to bring at least one gallon of water per person per day, as no potable water is available on the Joshua Tree park grounds.
Joshua Tree National Park
74485 National Park Dr.
Twentynine Palms, CA 92277
760-367-5500
nps.gov/jotr
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor is a water park located in Valencia, California, just outside of Los Angeles. The park caters to people who want thrilling, high-action water rides and those who have families with babies or toddlers. Rides include a toboggan slide, a sea wave pool, a variety of slides and thrill rides with high drops, such as the Blake Snake Summit or Lightning Falls. Hurricane Harbor also has several food and refreshment options from Ben and Jerry's, Cowabunga Burgers and Paradise Pavilion. Tickets to Hurricane Harbor can be purchased online at the Six Flags website or at the Hurricane Harbor location.
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
26101 Magic Mountain Parkway
Valencia, CA 91355
661-255-4527
sixflags.com
Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier, located near Route 66, is a one-stop food, entertainment and relaxation center on the beachfront. Admission to the Santa Monica Pier is free, and it's open every day of the year. It has an aquarium, a bike rental shop, movie showings and an old-fashioned-style soda fountain. The Santa Monica Pier also hosts an eco festival with speakers from the peace movement and an artistic event called GLOW where artists create projects specially designed to be viewed at night.
Santa Monica Pier
200 Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica, CA 90401
310-458-8900
santamonicapier.org
Tags: Santa Monica, Hurricane Harbor, Joshua Tree, Monica Pier, Santa Monica Pier, National Park, Southern California