Winter Sands

Some winter wonderlands are filled with sand. Here are three great ways to celebrate winter with secluded beaches, lively tide pools, and sunset bonuses.

Week: 01.19.2016
Regions: Southern CA

Green Space to Sea Space

Ocean Panoramas from Heisler Park

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Green space meets sea space at Heisler Park in Laguna Beach. Spanning 32 acres, the park meanders with pathways and greenery fanned with palms and a statue of a humpback whale. It's also one of the best vantages of ocean panoramas. Take it a step further on the southernmost stair
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48 Hours on the Central Coast

Winter Getaway 2016 to San Luis Obispo County

People say that California has it all. Perhaps there'’s no truer representation of that than San Luis Obispo County. From the dramatic coastline to the green hills, seaside villages, and two world- class wine regions, San Luis Obispo County is all that'’s good about California! W
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Snap, Crackle, Crystal Cove

Tidepool at Crystal Cove

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Legendary California author John Steinbeck once noted "it is advisable to look from the tide pool to the stars and then back to the tide pool again." And there might be no place better to take this advice than at Crystal Cove State Park beach, where seemingly endless sand meets p
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Calm in Carlsbad

Secluded Beach in Carlsbad

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San Diego is famous for having some of the world's most beautiful beaches. So, how do you find a less populous shoreline to explore? At the intersection of Carlsbad Boulevard and Cerezo Drive in the north county coastal town of Carlsbad exists a rare stretch of sandy solace veile
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Muir Woods Night Tour

    Thousands of people flock to Muir Woods every year, yet only a few see it at night, when this beloved park is experienced in a whole new light. The Muir Woods Night Tour happens on the last Friday of every month through October.

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  2. Slide Ranch Marin

    Slide On Over

    Marin's Slide Ranch has a popular neighbor in the Muir Beach Overlook. But don’t overlook Slide! This open-to-the-public nonprofit organization sits on 134 acres of coastline and is filled with animals, Pacific scenery, and an adjacent hiking trail.

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  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

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  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

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Trending Stories SoCal

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  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

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  2. Wapama Wows

    Hetch Hetchy can be overlooked in Yosemite National Park because of its more remote location and limited facilities. But this is where you’ll also find one of the best day hikes in the park: Wapama Falls.

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  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

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  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

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