Diversify your outdoors portfolio with one of these West Coast adventures that confirm we really do live on the coast with the most. Ready, set, jet!
1) Crystal Blue Persuasion: Orange County has more than Disneyland and infamous housewives. In the southernmost point of Newport Beach are 14 bungalows along Crystal Cove State Beach. Stay the night in one of these historic cottages (built in the 1930s and '40s) and enjoy a morning-coffee stroll along 3.5 miles of undeveloped coastline.
2) One-Two Desert Punch: Combine the good times and craziness of Vegas with the relaxing solitude of Death Valley (just a two-hour drive west). Late February to early March is the best time to visit the valley for its impressive displays of wildflowers. And don't miss the purple sunsets that blanket the sand dunes.
3) Channel Surf: While most people think of Catalina as the island to check out in SoCal, Channel Islands National Park offers a much different kind of scene; like kayaking to the largest sea caves in the world. Depart for the islands from Ventura, about 75 miles north of LAX.
4) Break for the Beach: Cheaper than Hawaii, warmer than Stinson, San Diego makes a great beach holiday. Build sand castles and toss the Frisbee at Coronado Central Beach, named best family beach by the Travel Channel.
5) Games On: The Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver/Whistler are fast approaching, and it's not too late to get in on the action. You don't need tickets to the events to have fun: Only 10 percent of world-famous Whistler Blackcomb will be closed for the Games—leaving 7,500 acres vacant for skiing and boarding.