I’ve Got A Few Summer Travel Ideas
As we watch our vacation budgets carefully, a question that arises is "Where’s a great destination with lots of variety?" You might put a Southern California vacation on your list. There you will find theme parks, beaches, great weather and a lot more.
The beautiful state of Hawaii should also be on the list, if you find a good deal on airfare. It's hard to beat the beautiful warm ocean water, but it does not offer as much overall variety as Southern California. You might want to read this article by the SoCal Vacation Guru, where California vacations and Hawaiian vacations are compared. The beaches in SoCal do not have as many rock outcroppings and the sun is less intense (as is the humidity). You'll find the ocean water to be warmer in the Aloha State, but the cooler California water might actually seem more inviting on a hot summer day.
Hawaii does have an advantage with such beautiful natural countryside and vegetation, enhanced by the local Polynesian culture. But don't forget the melting pot of many different cultures to be experienced in California, as well as the mountains, desert and coastline.
Southern California offers much more than great beaches. There are a half-dozen major theme parks to be visited. If you are a fan of roller coasters, you really need to visit Knott's Berry Farm and Six Flags Magic Mountain. You'll discover many intimidating coasters and thrill rides at Knott's and Six Flags. You won't find as many true thrill rides at Disneyland as at the other parks, although Space Mountain and the Matterhorn Bobsleds certainly qualify.
Hawaii does not offer roller coasters, but does offer surfing on the North Shore of Oahu in the wintertime. In terms of the budget, there may be great vacation specials to both destinations, but you can drive to California if airfare is too costly.