Family-Friendly Activities While Visiting Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is famous for its amazing beauty and peaceful setting. Millions of people who enjoy being out in nature visit the park every year. The park is located in central California and is nestled within the Sierra Nevada Mountain range. When visiting you''ll be treated to amazing views of the granite cliffs, giant Sequoia trees and some of the prettiest waterfalls on planet earth.

For those visiting the park, there are plenty of fun, family-friendly things to do. While 95% of the 750,000 acres is considered wilderness, there is plenty of activities that you can enjoy. Check out our list below for some ideas.

Summer Activities:

* Camping
* Hiking
* Horseback Riding
* Bike Riding
* Rock Climbing
* Dune Buggies
* Gem & Rock Hunting
* Bird Watching
* Photography
* Picnicking
* Fishing
* Backpacking
* Participate in Scheduled Educational Programs
* Visit to the Yosemite Museum

Winter Activities:

* Downhill Skiing
* Cross Country Skiing
* Snow Tubing
* Snow Boarding
* Sledding
* Snowshoeing
* Ice Skating

During our weekend visit we enjoyed a few beginner hiking trails (both guided) and went horseback riding. Two of the things that we really enjoyed seeing were BridalViel Falls and El Capitan, a steep granite formation. The scenery throughout this national park is breathtaking, so make sure you bring along a camera! We also recommend visiting the Yosemite Museum so that you can learn about the history of the park and the surrounding area.

Before planning your visit to Yosemite National Park you'll want to visit their official website for updates on weather conditions, emergency alerts, to see what's currently open, places where you can stay and to see a full list of activities that you can enjoy.

Exploring Beautiful South Lake Tahoe in California

A few months ago we took a road trip through California and spent a day exploring the beautiful South Lake Tahoe area. The city is located in El Dorado County and sits along the southern shore of Lake Tahoe. Over the years it has become a popular west-coast tourist destination.

During the summer months the weather is quite pleasant with low humidity and temperatures rarely go above 90 degrees F. The summer climate makes it a popular destination for tourists who enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, water skiing, bike riding, camping, hiking, horseback riding, scuba diving, golfing, rock climbing, zip lines, etc.

In the wintertime the area frequently receives snowfall with an average yearly snowfall of 143" per year. Thanks to all of the snowfall the area is popular for skiing, snow boarding, snow tubing, cross-country skiing, sledding, ice fishing, snow mobiles, etc. It's a winter sports playground!

You can enjoy all of your favorite summertime or wintertime outdoor activities by visiting one of the numerous open-to-the-public parks that are in the city and the surrounding area. If you're looking to enjoy the beach you'll want to visit Conolley Beach, Lakeview Commons Beach, the Main Regan Beach and/or Regan Beach West.

What kind of other activities can you enjoy while visiting Lake Tahoe South? The theatre, dinner cruises out on the lake, visit an art gallery, go shopping, wine tasting tours, craft beer breweries, take a ride in a hot air balloon, visit a nearby casino for some gambling fun or to see a show, play a round or two of miniature golf, explore a museum, attend a local festival, take a ride on the Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster or on the Gondola, etc. There are a ton of activities for both couples and families to enjoy.

Looking to learn more about visiting South Lake Tahoe in California? We recommend checking out the TahoeSouth website. It's comprehensive and kept up-to-date. We really enjoyed our little trip to the area and are going to plan a more extensive trip to Lake Tahoe for later next year.

Visiting Emerald Bay State Park and Vikingsholm Castle

Emerald Bay State Park is located along the beautiful shoreline of Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay in California. The park was established in 1953 and in 1969 the park was recognized as a National Natural Landmark. The 1,533 acre park is open year-round to visitors and is one of the nicest parks in the state.

One of the big draws to the park is Emerald Bay which is park of Lake Tahoe. The bay is about 2/3 of a mile wide by 1.7 miles in length. The bay is one of the first underwater park's in the state and protects underwater wrecks and the area's natural wildlife.

Within the park you'll find Vikingsholm Castle, a 38-room mansion built by architect Lennart Palme and was the summer home of Harry and Lora Knight, a prominent businessman in the area. The majority of the mansion was built with materials found around Lake Tahoe and built in the classic late 19th century and early 20th century Scandinavian style.

In 1996 the mansion was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Since then it has been turned into a museum home and is open to visitors for a reasonable fee. If you enjoy seeing and touring historic homes...you'll definitely want to add this one to your must-see list when visiting the area.

There are two main campgrounds within the park that visitors can use. They recommend that you plan ahead and call for reservations. You'll find all of that information on the park's website HERE. In addition to camping you can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, underwater scuba diving, swimming, relaxing on the lakefront, bike riding, etc.

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Enjoy a Wine Tasting Tour at Castello di Amorosa Winery

If you're going to be visiting the Napa Valley area in California and enjoy wine tastings...you'll want to visit Castello di Amorosa Winery in Calistoga. This winery is based out of a Tuscan style castle in a medieval style. The castle was built in 1994 and features 107 rooms, four underground levels, and four above ground levels. Every nook and cranny of this castle reminds me of our past trip to Italy. Construction took 15 years to complete and opened to the public in April 2007.

If you would like to learn more about the history of castle and its owner, Dario Sattui, you'll want to visit the company's official website. They have a really nice timeline history that you can read. The winery also has a book for sale that goes really in-depth and is perfect for visitors to the area.

For those of you who enjoy exploring and wine tastings all wrapped into one...Castello di Amorosa offers them at an affordable price. You can elect to do the self-guided tour (visitor's are provided a map) and explore 2 levels of the winery, one of the ground levels, the gardens and includes the wine tasting. No reservations needed.

If you prefer a guided tour of the winery you can opt for that package which includes an educational 60-minute guided tour through the castle, including the torture chamber, armory, and grand barrel room. You'll enjoy your wine tasting with a selection of their premium wines. When it comes to the guided tours...they do recommend reservations.

If you want to get a group together of your family and friends (14 or more members), you'll want to contact them to make a reservation and to inquire about group rates. Perfect for wine loving couples, bachelor and bachelorette parties, etc.

The company hosts a wide variety of different wine tasting packages and you can find all of that information on their website. In addition, they host a lot of different events throughout the year that you may want to participate in. They're great about keeping their website and social media channels updated with the latest offerings and news.

Social Media Channels:

Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest

Looking to buy some bottles of their delicious wines? You can shop their online store for a nice selection of their offerings and visit their online gift shop to purchase branded wine accessories, books, grapeseed oils, decanters, premium chocolates, grapeseed soap bars, and more!

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3 Benefits to Selling Your Southern California Home Fast

Today, house prices are never consistent as every house buyer around the world knows that the price of a particular house today will definitely change after a few months. In fact, there are cases when just a few weeks have gone by and the price of the house has suddenly decreased or increased. This is because there are many determining factors in deciding the price of the house with some listed below;

• Location – some enjoy city life, some wants to live far
• Crime rate
• Price of land
• Use of land – can be agricultural, commercial or residential
• Weather conditions
• Environmental factors
• Safety and much more

And the list can go on and on. A million dollar neighborhood can turn into a mere thousand bucks if a dangerous fault line is discovered underneath. A super typhoon ravaging a posh neighborhood can single-handedly make the current house values to zero in just a single day. With these hard facts alone, anyone can be convinced on how house prices fluctuate.

And if you are planning on selling your southern California home, then it will surely be best for you to quickly decide and get things done as soon as possible. We https://socalhomebuyers.com/ at have listed three major benefits on why you should sell your house fast.

1. Get Cash Immediately

You are selling your property because you are in need of cash right? So why should you delay it, every moment counts while you are deciding on whether to sell or not? If you go through with sale immediately, you will be able to receive cash immediately and be done with all the worrying and pondering that will surely take its toll on your body. Plus, the unlimited doubts and what ifs will ultimately drain you and even make you think wrongly. So push through quickly and use the cash to whatever investment you plan on making.

Cash is also face-valued, unlike a house which has different values at different times, thus, 50,000 dollars cash today is still 50 000 dollars next year. Therefore, having cash will be more safe and reliable rather than a volatile property.

2. Avoid Foreclosures

If your house is on a mortgage and you are having problems with paying your periodic dues, then it might be a good idea to sell your property immediately. By selling your house yourself, you will be able to negotiate the best price possible rather than waiting for the credit company to sell it themselves which will be obviously be sold at a price way lower than you expect it to be. Furthermore, by selling it yourself, your reputation will be better because you avoided foreclosure and is able to pay the unpaid balance in full. After all, credit and loans are all about reputations and credit ratings.

3. Avoid Real Estate Agents and Middlemen

If you sell it fast yourself, you will be able to avoid real estate agents and other similar middle men that are only interested in getting the highest commission possible. Always remember that real estate agents don’t aim to help you sell as quickly as possible, their true aim is to find the best deal that will give them the highest commission possible. Therefore, selling your house quick will allow you to avoid them and the possible hassle the process might bring forth.

Five Kid-Friendly Hikes Near Las Vegas​​

All around Las Vegas lie areas of breathtaking natural beauty, offering families with young children the easy opportunity to explore unspoiled wilderness without traveling great distances. To compose this list, I tapped the memories of three experts: my children, who spent much of their childhoods hiking Southwestern trails with me. These came up as the five places they most enjoyed when they were small.

Badwater, Death Valley National Park, California. One of the most popular places in the park, this salt flat will have you walking on the lowest terrain in North America, 282 feet below sea level. It is easy walking on a flat surface, and in the cooler months can even be walked barefoot. A special treat: Imagine walking on snow, if the sun could warm that snow. Travel as far as you feel comfortable or until the terrain gets too bumpy to walk easily. The salt flat offers spectacular views of the 11,048 foot Telescope Peak to the west; this is one of the few places you can see such a disparity in elevation. Best done November-March. www.nps.gov/deva.

Riverside Walk, Zion National Park, Utah. This paved and nearly level trail travels along the North Fork of the Virgin River, through a healthy riparian habitat of cottonwood, box elder, and velvet ash, surrounded by Zion’s signature red and orange sandstone walls. Wildlife commonly seen includes deer, wild turkeys and rock squirrels. Highlights include short unpaved spur trails, allowing access to the river where your party can play in the water, picnic, or just relax. After one mile going upstream, the trail ends at the Gateway to the Narrows, the literal jumping-off point where adventuresome hikers drop into the waterway and head upstream using the river as the trail, into the world-famous and spectacular Narrows of the Virgin River. Good year-round, except note that the trail can ice up in winter. www.nps.gov/zion.

China Ranch Date Farm, Tecopa, California. This date farm is a rare and lush oasis in the middle of the desert near Death Valley National Park. Hike the trails through the date trees or follow the outer trails that leave from there. One good starter trail is the 200-foot Creek Trail, which takes you through a canopy of riparian foliage along a flowing creek—super for small children. Another good one is the Badlands Trail, about one and one-half mile roundtrip. Wrap your visit up by visiting the store, where you can sample the various kinds of dates and perhaps buy some of those you like the most. Nobody seems to leave (nor should they) without buying one of the famous date milkshakes, handmade on the spot. www.chinaranch.com.

Kelso Sand Dunes, Mojave National Preserve, California. No official trail here, just a great place for all ages to climb as much as 700 feet to the dunes’ peak. Look for animal tracks in the sand, and perhaps get sandy by rolling back down. These are “booming” or “singing” dunes, which means they make a peculiar noise when the moisture is just right. Only a few dunes in the world do this. Some think the sound resembles a distant airplane motor, while others compare it to a musical note. All kids—and adults, too—love it. Our family tradition is to always fly kites here. www.nps.gov/moja.

Black Canyon National Water Trail, Lake Mead National Recreations Area, Nevada and Arizona. This is usually done as a full-day kayaking or canoe excursion, either guided or self-guided, embarking from the Nevada side of the Colorado River, just below Hoover Dam, and traveling almost 12 miles downstream to Willow Beach, Arizona. Parents will have to do most of the paddling, but there is a good downstream current with no white water. Foot trails beloved by children lead up the side canyons, some of them to hot springs, waterfalls, and sauna caves. There are several small beaches you will likely have to yourself, to stop and relax, have lunch, and of course swim in the chilly, yet refreshing, clear water. Bighorn sheep and bald eagles share the habitat with plenty of waterfowl. For this trip, even if you have your own watercraft, you will need to sign up with an authorized outfitter through the National Park Service, for transportation through the dam’s security zone down to the launching area. Sundays and Mondays offer the most enchanting solitude and silence, as on those days no motorized boats are allowed north of Willow Beach. www.nps.gov/lake.

When hiking with children, always carry extra water, jackets and snacks. Keep the distances short and brush up on your geologic and animal information so you can comment on what they see as they walk along. Family hikes can foster self-reliance and an appreciation for the natural wonders found just beyond the city lights.

Deborah Wall lives in Las Vegas and has spent her life enjoying all forms of outdoor sports including hiking, sailing, canyoneering, rappelling, kayaking and winter camping. Wall has been a columnist since 2005 for The View Newspapers in Las Vegas and has published over a hundred feature articles – which include her photographs – in numerous Southwestern books and publications. Her newest book, Base Camp Las Vegas: 101 Hikes in the Southwest, is available for pre-order on Amazon and will be released everywhere on August 8, 2017. To learn more about Wall, visit Imbrifex Books and BaseCampGuides.com.

6 of the World's Best Places to Do Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Stand up paddleboarding, also known as SUP, has taken the watersports world by storm. It has attracted a lot of people not just because of the workout you get from it but also because of the enjoyment of the sport. It is just like surfing but without the waves and like kayaking while standing up. Plus, it doesn’t feel like working out at all.

Paddleboarding is best done on calm and flat water, especially if you’re still learning the sport. But if you’ve already taken lessons and can manage paddleboarding by yourself, then just paddleboard your way towards these great places around the world.

Oahu, Hawaii. Hawaii is known for waves that are ideal for surfing. It’s also a place that is worth visiting if you’re into paddleboarding. There is a flat water area at Puaena Point at Hale’iwa Beach Park for those who are still learning the sport. The waves are also a lot calmer, especially during the summer time. You can do stand-up surfing as well as SUP yoga and it’s easy to get lessons and paddling gear.

California. When paddleboarding in California, go to Santa Cruz or at Lake Tahoe. The Santa Cruz wharf is great for beginners. You do have to expect to share the space with surfers, however. The harbor is also a good place to learn the sport. Lake Tahoe offers crystal clear waters and a breathtaking view of nature. You can paddleboard on the North Shore’s calm waters. Beginners can enjoy the flat water and light winds by paddling in the morning or early in the evening.

Bali, Indonesia. You don’t need to choose a season to travel to Bali since you can paddleboard all year-round. The Medewi and Balian beaches in the north offer calmer waters and are less crowded. There’s plenty to do while you’re here aside from paddleboarding. You can go hiking, climbing, trekking, and even diving. It’s a nature lover’s paradise.

The Turks and Caicos Islands. There’s nothing like the turquoise waters of these islands. The Turks and Caicos Islands have crystal clear waters with reefs that are teeming with life. Take advantage of the island’s trade winds and practice downwind paddling or flat-water paddling and head to the mangrove swamps. There are paddleboard tours being offered that allow you to tour the islands just by being on your paddleboard. Plus, paddle in the open shallow waters and enjoy watching the fish, sharks, and stingrays as you paddle along. Head to the clear and calm waters of Grace Bay or go to Big Blue Unlimited for a paddleboard tour.

Perth, Australia. Being surrounded by waters, there’s no doubt Australia is included in the best places to paddleboard. Get your gear ready and proceed to Perth, Australia. Swan River’s flat waters are a great spot for beginners. You can also enjoy the shores, gentle waves, and the relaxing paddle boarding experience of Cottesloe Beach.

Mexico. Mexico has great places for paddleboarding whether you’re on the Pacific Ocean side or on the Gulf of Mexico. Sayulita, Cancun, and Punta Mita are some examples. There’s a big community of paddleboarders in Sayulita and you could go and catch SUP retreats hosted by many SUP professionals. And of course, there’s no shortage of lessons, guides, and gear rentals in the area.

Year-Round Whale Watching in Monterey

credit SeeMonterey.com

It’s the peak of Gray Whale migration and there is no better place to see these majestic creatures from shore or by boat than in Monterey. Several species of whales and thousands of dolphins are easier to spot in Monterey especially at Point Piños and Monterey Bay due to a very deep canyon just two miles off the Monterey coastline which causes a narrow concentration of whales that prefer to swim along the safer, shallow inland shelf.

This ocean topography and sea creatures swimming pattern makes Monterey the Whale Watching Capital of the World™. Throughout the year, Monterey offers sightings of 15 species of whales (baleen: blue, fin, sei, humpback, gray, minke and North Pacific right) and (toothed: sperm whale, Baird’s beaked, Cuvier’s beaked, pygmy Sperm, dwarf sperm, Stejneger’s beaked, Blainville’s beaked and Hubb’s beaked) and 10 species of dolphins (orca ( aka killer whale), northern right whale dolphin, Pacific white-sided, Risso’s, bottlenose, short-beaked common, long-beaked common, striped, short fin pilot whale and false killer whale), 2 species of porpoise (harbor and Dall’s), 6 species of pinnipeds (Guadalupe fur seal, northern fur seal, California sea lion, Northern sea lion a.k.a. Steller sea lion, harbor seal and northern elephant seal) and 1 species of Fissiped (sea otter).

Monterey whale trips do not require 25 miles of cruising to locate the extended procession of migrating and traveling whales and dolphins as at other Pacific coast locations. Very soon after launching, Monterey’s sea captains bring visitors up-close to reveal these magical ocean creatures and educate guests on the behaviors and patterns of the whales and dolphins. To take understanding to a level deeper, citizen scientists can help the seafaring experts at Monterey Bay Whale Watch collect data about number of whales they see, water temperature, location, behavior and weather conditions. All this critical information is sent to Cascadia Research Center.

The Great Gray Whale Migration begins with pregnant mothers leaving the Bering Strait in October for their breeding grounds in Baja, Mexico. They are followed by the general population and then juvenile whales who all head south for the warmer, safer waters of three Mexican lagoons: St. Ignacio, Magdalena and Ojo de Liebre (also known as Scammons). By the third week of January vast numbers of whales can be seen heading south. While daily sightings are highly probable they cannot be guaranteed as these are wild animals.

Join the celebration of the exciting migration at the 7th Annual Whalefest held on January 28 and 29, 2017, at Old Fisherman’s Wharf. This free, entertaining and interactive family event celebrates the migration of the gray whales and local sea creatures with music, activities, educational displays and an informative symposium with lectures by the worlds’ leading marine scientists and advocates. The event brings together the community to sponsor and benefit many local and national marine organizations that educate, inspire, and empower the public to protect the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

But the fun doesn’t stop there, as around mid-February the whales can be seen heading north again and continue to travel until April when the mothers return with their calves. The pairs must cross over the cavernous canyon where killer whales lie in wait and often attack the calves. National Geographic, BBC and other international film crews flock to Monterey to film this exciting wildlife footage. Mothers can save their young if they can head to shallow waters and the chase is something spectacular to see. It’s no fluke that people migrate to Monterey, the Whale Watching Capital of the World™, where you can see a virtual moving mural of the circle of life.

For more information on year-round whale watching and tours in Monterey County, please visit SeeMonterey.com/things-to-do/animals-and-wildlife/whale-watching.

MONTEREY COUNTY CONVENTION and VISITORS BUREAU: The Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau (MCCVB) is a 501©6 organization that drives tourism for Monterey County and in recent years has led the destination to record levels of growth. Tourism is the largest industry on the Monterey Peninsula and the second largest in the County. The MCCVB is a partnership of the hospitality community and local governments that aims to drive business growth through compelling marketing and sales initiatives that maximize the benefits of tourism to our guests, members and the community.

Money-Saving Bed and Breakfast Packages in San Francisco

Planning a trip to San Francisco? Love visiting Bed & Breakfast Inns? If so, we've got two to introduce to and BOTH are offering some great money-saving packages this year. Check out these special deals for travelers.

Hilton San Francisco Union Square and Parc 55 San Francisco – A Hilton Hotel recently introduced their 2017 Bed & Breakfast Packages. Ideal for those that want convenient access to shopping, theater productions and San Francisco’s most popular attractions, both Hilton San Francisco Union Square and Parc 55 San Francisco are ideally suited for those that want to enjoy great value and the city’s most centrally-located accommodations.

Featured for a series of dates and holiday weekends in 2017*, the Hilton San Francisco Union Square’s Bed & Breakfast Package starts at only $209 per night for a Standard King Room. Based on double occupancy, this offer is available for two people and includes accommodations and breakfast buffet for up to two people per night in the hotel’s Urban Tavern restaurant.

Also featured throughout 2017, the Parc 55 San Francisco’s Bed & Breakfast Package starts at only $209 per night for a Standard King Room. Based on double occupancy, this offer is available for up to two people per night and includes accommodations and breakfast for two in the hotel’s Cable 55 restaurant.

*Key dates for the best 2017 values include the following: most weekends and holidays throughout the year, including Easter; Spring Break; Memorial Day; 4th of July; Labor Day; Thanksgiving; and Holiday Shopping for Christmas.

In addition to exploring the vibrant Union Square neighborhood, guests can enjoy shopping at the city’s largest selection of retail stores, outlets, boutiques and department stores; enjoying a production at one of the many neighborhood theaters; taking a ride on San Francisco’s legendary Cable Car; or just drifting the streets of Union Square.

Cityscape – San Francisco’s Newest Viewing Lounge

One of the best suggestions for those visiting the city, is to check out the new Cityscape San Francisco Lounge, located on the Hilton San Francisco Union Square’s 46th floor. The viewing lounge welcomes guests from 5:00 p.m. to Midnight every day of the week. Featuring breathtaking, 360-degree panoramic views of the entire Bay Area and San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks, Cityscape offers small plates and appetizers, signature cocktails, wines by the glass, a variety of beers on tap, fine spirits and the best, most coveted viewing platform in the city. Designed as one of the top “must see” attractions in San Francisco, Cityscape is the quintessential destination for those that want to experience the city’s most dynamic views and enjoy the “lay of the land” as guests are treated to sights that can only be seen from the vantage point of the Hilton San Francisco Union Square’s tower one.

For more information about and reservations for Hilton San Francisco Union Square, please visit www.hiltonsanfranciscohotel.com or call (415) 771-1400. For more information about and reservations for Parc 55 San Francisco, visit www.parc55hotel.com or call (415) 392-8000.

Rush Creek Lodge at Gateway to Yosemite National Park

Kim Carroll Photography

Heading to Yosemite National Park? Looking for a brand new, exciting & relaxing lodge to visit? If so, we recommend that you check out the brand new for 2016 Rush Creek Lodge! It's the first new resort in the Yosemite region in more than 25 years. It's the perfect retreat for couple or family vacations.

Conveniently located less than a mile from the park’s Highway 120 West entrance, Rush Creek Lodge is a scenic three-hour drive from the San Francisco Bay Area and is a sister property to the nearby historic Evergreen Lodge. Nestled on twenty woodland acres, the resort is a superbly designed “destination within a destination” that features 143 rooms, a grand main lodge, restaurant and tavern, a 2,400 square foot, heated, salt water swimming pool and hot tubs with poolside bar, full-service recreation department, general store, meeting and event space and a variety of innovative amenities for entertainment and relaxation.

Kim Carroll Photography

Outstanding accommodations: The contemporary mountain resort offers Yosemite explorers a new lodging option with 143 tastefully appointed rooms, suites, and hillside villas, each with a deck overlooking nature and most providing a front-row seat to the stunning Sierra sunsets. Inspired by the mountain backdrop, Rush Creek Lodge marries an authentic, timeless feel with modern amenities for a consummate National Park lodge experience that is both relaxed and sophisticated. All rooms feature a stylish sitting area, private bathroom, custom artwork and furnishings, refrigerator and complimentary Wi-Fi and are designed to comfortably accommodate both couples and families.

Recreation and activities: Rush Creek Lodge enables leisure travelers, families and groups to make the most of their visit to Yosemite by offering a rich array of activities both in the Park and at the property. A full-service onsite recreation department helps guests explore Yosemite’s icons and hidden gems by providing over thirty professionally guided excursions for all experience and fitness levels, with trips varying seasonally to make the most of Yosemite’s ever-changing landscape. Additionally, the resort offers a complimentary “recreation concierge” advice desk and daily on-site activities.

In the Main Lodge, guests will find a spacious lounge with a fireplace and a fun-filled game room. Throughout the property, outdoor seating areas and fireplaces await, as well as play areas and other opportunities for discovery, entertainment and relaxation, including a large salt water pool and two spacious hot tubs (one for families and another just for adults).

Delicious dining: Yosemite activities create robust appetites, and the on-site dining establishments at Rush Creek Lodge are designed to tantalize with seasonal menu items. Featuring the finest available local, organic, and sustainable ingredients, fresh and sophisticated cuisine is served in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings, including a restaurant with a wood-fired oven and display kitchen, a cozy tavern with an expansive terrace and an inviting pool bar. Freshly made trail-ready items, snacks, and happy hour supplies are also available in the General Store.

Kim Carroll Photography

Events inspired by nature: Ideal for destination events, retreats and weddings, Rush Creek Lodge features customizable, full-service meeting and event space for groups up to 250. Open air and indoor meeting facilities, including a vaulted ceiling event hall with an outdoor plaza, a poolside BBQ area, multiple dining venues and a hillside amphitheater, can accommodate casual or sophisticated get-togethers throughout the seasons. Rush Creek’s on-site catering team tailors plated, buffet and family style meals to each group’s needs and desires.

Ideal for unplugging and reconnecting, Rush Creek customizes recreation and activity packages for groups, including guided trips and team building. Rush Creek’s varied onsite activities and guest areas promote fun-filled, relaxing, informal interactions, fostering the important connections desired in a group getaway.

Business with a purpose: Rush Creek Lodge continues the social and environmental missions set forth by its sister property, Evergreen Lodge. The resort will be a Certified B Corporation, meeting social sustainability and environmental performance standards. The property’s dedication to social enterprise, using business as a force for good, is exemplified by its fully self-funded youth employment program and a host of environmental initiatives. The resort’s water re-use program will be one of the most comprehensive commercial greywater systems in California, charging stations will be available for electric vehicles and solar panels will supply a portion of the property’s power needs.

With the opening of Rush Creek Lodge, Yosemite National Park gains a new ambassador and launch point for sharing memories for a lifetime, including special occasions and year-round outdoor adventures. Rush Creek Lodge is available for reservations at www.rushcreeklodge.com or by calling (209) 379-2373.

Relax and Play at the Little River Inn

Mendocino Resort Introduces Two Nautical Specials with a Gourmet Twist – Dive Safely for Prized Abalone or Kayak to a Picnic on a Private Beach.

The Little River Inn, an ocean-view Victorian inn on the Mendocino Coast, premieres two new packages that combine oceanic adventure with culinary delights, as befits an inn with an award-winning restaurant and CIA-trained chef. After the roaring success of Abalone Camp, an early-summer diving experience that allowed even first time divers to harvest the legendary delicacy with the guidance of professionals, and then learn to prepare and cook it into a gourmet feast, the inn has crafted the new ABALONE ADVENTURE AT THE ALBION SCHOOLHOUSE. For the more romance-oriented traveler, the Little River Inn offers the PRIVATE PICNIC SEA KAYAK package, where a personal guide takes you and a loved one to a private beach for a chef-prepared picnic. Both packages are available now through late fall.

Stable, comfortable, and suitable for all ages and levels of skill, there’s no better way to commune with the Pacific than a sit-on-top kayak. Harbor seals, sea stars, and shore birds will be your companions as a guide brings the two of you to a private beach where you will indulge in a picnic lunch created by Chef Marc Dym.

Our PRIVATE PICNIC SEA KAYAK package includes the following:

Two nights lodging in an Ocean View Fireplace Room

Everything you’ll need to enjoy a sit-on-top kayak: wetsuit, booties, life jacket and helmet

A guided journey to a secluded beach that can only be reached by sea

Three-course gourmet picnic luncheon from a select menu prepared by Chef Marc Dym

A bottle of wine to enjoy during your picnic or after kayaking

PRIVATE PICNIC SEA KAYAK package is available from August 1, 2016 until October 31, 2016. The package starts at $705 for two, exclusive of tax and gratuity. Advance reservations are required for booking; we need at least three days’ notice to make arrangements and ascertain that conditions will be suitable.

Room upgrades are available with this packages at an additional price, based upon availability. One-hour massages can also be added to package at the time of booking. Enjoy a classic, relaxing massage using a creative blend of techniques by their highly trained professionals at the Little River Salon & Spa.

If you always wanted to learn how to dive or if you crave the succulent taste of abalone, the ABALONE ADVENTURE AT THE ALBION SCHOOLHOUSE is a must for you. This odyssey offers avid divers and novices alike a rare opportunity to dive with some of the most renowned freedive guides in the region for prized local abalone during Northern California’s peak season. The dive will be followed by a demonstration on how to clean and prepare the collected bounty, culminating in a delectable feast prepared for you on the day of the dive. You stay during your adventure at the charming Albion Schoolhouse, a 1930s gem appointed in the spirit of art deco yet outfitted with modern amenities.

ABALONE ADVENTURE AT THE ALBION SCHOOLHOUSE includes the following:
Two nights lodging at The Albion Schoolhouse for three couples (six people)

Components in the refrigerator for a DIY (Do it Yourself) breakfast for day of the dive

Box lunches for day of the dive

One day of diving with licensed guide(s)

Assistance with cleaning and preparing caught abalone

Cooking demo and communal dinner prepared for you the day of the dive

ABALONE ADVENTURE AT THE ALBION SCHOOLHOUSE package is available August 1, 2016 – November 30, 2016. The package starts at $4,000 for six people. Reservations are based upon availability and require a 14-day notice. To book this package call 888.INN.LOVE (707.937.5942).

NOTE: Adventure does not include Abalone Diving License. Guests MUST purchase a license prior to the dive. Additionally, one abalone per diver must be donated for the communal dinner; divers can keep additional abalones caught that day.

Casual Elegance and Family Hospitality at Hofsas House in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Entrance to Hofsas House

Last month, my husband and I traveled to Carmel Valley and Carmel-by-the-Sea for a little get away. With the busy holiday season approaching, we were looking forward to spending a little time unwinding. We were fortunate enough to be guests at the Hofsas House overlooking the quaint seaside village of Carmel-by-the Sea, which is located in Monterey County, California. What makes this place so quaint? There are no street addresses and everyone goes to the post office each day to get their mail. There are no large shopping centers and no big box chains. There are also no large chain coffee shops. The people that live there don’t seem to mind and neither did we. Before I tell you more about Carmel-by-the-Sea, let me tell you a little more about Hofsas House.

Bavarian themed mural at the Hofsas House entrance painted by Maxine Albro

Hofsas House has been welcoming visitors to its European inspired boutique-style hotel for over 60 years and with its charm, comfortable rooms, and personal service (we received a tasty chardonnay and a cheese plate upon our arrival), I can see why this place remains one of the little gems in this beautiful seaside town. In addition, the hotel is also dog friendly, so you can bring your pooch along if you want him or her to explore Carmel with you. The hotel features many special touches including the Bavarian-themed welcome mural that is truly one of a kind. Hofsas House is family run and the owner, Carrie, is an incredible resource for helping you plan your days while you are in town.

The rooms at Hofsas House are larger than most hotels and ours even had a fireplace, which we fired up each night since it can get pretty chilly in the evenings. The hotel has 38 rooms, many of them offering ocean views, which is definitely a plus. We enjoyed sipping wine and nibbling on cheese while we took in the gorgeous scenery on the patio. Not only is this hotel perfect for unwinding and relaxing, but it is in the ideal location for enjoying Carmel-by-the Sea to the fullest.

Gorgeous Scenery

There is so much to do within walking distance including wine tasting, wonderful restaurants and adorable shops where you can find unique and special finds. We packed so much into the two days we were there, but we could have easily spent another day or two exploring. The hotel is just minutes away from Monterey (I hear that the aquarium is a must see) as well as Pebble Beach, Big Sur and Pacific Grove. While the hotel was perfect for the two of us, it is also a great destination for family reunions, business meetings or even small wedding receptions. The hotel includes meeting space, which is located poolside, with a fireplace, full kitchen and can accommodate 30 to 40 people.

Since our trip was kid-free and work-free, we took every opportunity to make the trip one big, fun and adventurous date. We happily exchanged meeting rooms and conference calls for long walks, shopping, exploring, eating and drinking. We were pretty busy while we were in town and here are some of the things we did during our lovely stay:

On the Wine Walk visiting the Sheid Tasting Room 

The Carmel Wine Walk by-the-Sea – this was definitely one of my favorite parts of our trip. My husband and I love wine and we especially appreciate learning about new wines. You can purchase a wine “passport” at the Chamber of Commerce (or through the Hofsas House), which gives you the opportunity to leisurely stroll through town on a self-paced wine tasting tour. With this passport, you can choose nine wine tasting rooms (out of 14) within the 1 x 1 square mile of Carmel-by-the-Sea. We visited a handful of tasting rooms and would have visited more if we had more time! We absolutely loved several of them including Scheid, Alexander Smith and Wrath. We tasted some delicious wines, many of which were Pinot Noirs, and made some new friends along the way as well. We even discovered one of the best places to buy cheese ever—The Cheese Shop, which is next door to Wrath (very convenient). They offered us sample after sample when we walked through the door. The staff was so friendly, the cheese was insanely good and they even have a monthly cheese club that we’re thinking of joining in on.

Beautiful scenery on the 17-Mile Drive 

Picnic and 17-Mile Drive – we picked up a picnic at the 5th Avenue Deli, which is an incredible little deli that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner offerings such as quiches, breakfast burritos, sandwiches, salads, sweets (I had carrot cake) and even tamales (which we loved). We packed up our little feast and took it with us on the breathtaking, picturesque 17-Mile Drive. 17-Mile Drive is widely recognized as one of the most scenic drives in the world. This famous route winds through Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach, from the sparkling Pacific coastline to the majestic Del Monte Forest. We took several stops along the way to take some photos and enjoy our food while looking at crashing waves and blue skies. You can also see the emerald fairways of The Links at Spanish Bay, Spyglass Hill and the world-renowned Pebble Beach Golf Links. We stopped at Pebble Beach, got some souvenirs and a Sprite (as I was getting a little carsick—winding roads are a challenge for me).

Enjoying a glass of wine on the patio

Dinner at The Beach House—this was a great evening for us. We were invited to enjoy dinner at The Beach House, which is located in Pacific Grove, right on the water. This romantic restaurant has amazing panoramic views, casual California cuisine and a heated outdoor patio. We had a drink at the bar first, and then enjoyed a lovely dinner on the patio. I happily sipped my champagne looking out the water and thinking how I never wanted to leave Carmel! Our meal started with seared Yellowfin Tuna appetizer that we shared, followed by the Filet Mignon Stroganoff for me and the Linguine with Clams and Roasted Garlic Olive Oil for my husband. We finished our meal with the Key Lime Pie dessert, which was the absolute perfect way to end this excellent and truly memorable meal.

The Beach House Key Lime Pie 

There are certainly many, many options to stay entertained and busy in Carmel, but those are just some of the highlights of our little getaway. Everything started off on the right foot with our lovely welcome at Hofsas House and ended with continental breakfast (included with your stay) in the hotel lobby prior to taking off for our drive back to reality.

Hofsas House
Located between 3rd and 4th Avenue on San Carlos Street in Carmel-by-the-Sea
1-800-221-2548

Disclosure: Kristine S. received a complimentary stay at Hofsas House along with free meal passes and wine tastings for this travel feature and review. No monetary compensation was received. All opinions, thoughts and words are 100% Kristine's own, unbiased opinions on the services that she received. Your opinions may differ.

History and Beauty Make Holman Ranch the Ideal Celebration Location

On a recent trip to Carmel, we were lucky enough to spend a night at a private ranch that offers cozy rooms, gorgeous scenery and breathtaking vineyards and olive groves. Holman Ranch, which is located at the Northern end of Carmel Valley, California, is an extraordinary and charming property that will transport your mind and body to an enchanting and tranquil place.

As we pulled up to Holman Ranch, several deer greeted us along the serene drive to our room. We spent a wonderfully relaxing evening at this property and whether you are searching for the picture-perfect location for a wedding, corporate event or even a family reunion, this quaint, tranquil and historic location offers some of the most unique and beautiful backdrops in the area.

Property Information:

Holman Ranch
web: http://holmanranch.com/
(831) 659-2640
60 Holman Ranch Road
Carmel Valley, California 93924

Holman Ranch has quite a long history, but most recently was purchased in 2006 by Thomas and Jarman Lowder who fell for the property’s charms. With 400 acres, a working vineyard and olive grove, Holman Ranch is the perfect location for multi-day retreats and single-day events. There is so much this property has to offer, it’s difficult to sum it up.

Our visit began with a tour of the Holman Ranch grounds starting with the vineyard and wine cave. The Holman Ranch vineyard stretches over 21 acres and boasts 100 percent estate grown wine that is organic and sustainably grown. We were able to taste the wine right out of the barrels in the caves and it was an enjoyable and educational experience. The warmth of the inland valley combined with the cooling marine layer is the ideal climate for the production of this winery’s Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, which were both delicious.

As far as the grounds go, the focal point (and most stunning spot on the property) is the recently restored 1928 Carmel stone hacienda. From this spot, you can view 360-degree views of the Santa Lucia Mountains, which truly are magical and quite breathtaking. I thought back to my wedding day and imagined how special this setting would be for a bride and groom and their guests. It’s an impressive wedding location, especially with the various rooms and patios that surround the hacienda from the gorgeous lawn to the Stone Terrace, which is the ideal spot for a pre-reception cocktail hour. One of our favorite places on our tour of the Hacienda was the Game Room, which was originally a stable and was then converted into a theater. It now offers a pool table, dartboard, plasma TV, fireplace and bar, which provide an enjoyable retreat for the groom and his groomsmen before the event. The hacienda and its variety of spaces can accommodate up to 200 guests.

Holman Ranch also offers a lush Ceremony Veranda, a small chapel for smaller weddings (50 seated guests), a bride’s room and a carriage house. While all of these event spaces lend themselves well to weddings, Holman Ranch is also an unforgettable location for corporate events with its fully furnished and modern Conference Room and the Great Room, which is a comfortable location for cocktails or intimate dining.

The last item I want to be sure and mention are the accommodations. The newly remodeled guest rooms (there are 10 of them) reminded me of cozy western cabins, but with all of the modern amenities you would expect in a hotel. One of my very favorite things about the room was the water. Yes, the water! Holman Ranch has its own water system on the property and the water tastes so pure and refreshing. We were given two Holman Ranch stainless canteens in our rooms and we definitely enjoyed using them and drinking the water on the ranch. I’ll raise my canteen to that for sure!

Our entire experience from the water to the wine, to the accommodations (best night sleep EVER) to the quaint town with restaurants like Will’s Fargo Steakhouse and Bar and the Jarman Tasting room (also owned by the family that owns Holman Ranch), made this a memorable trip that was totally worth the long drive from Orange County. Holman Ranch and Carmel are spectacular and quite simply, beautiful beyond measure.

Disclosure: Kristine Snyder was given a complimentary stay at Holman Ranch for this travel feature and review. No monetary compensation was received. Kristine's thoughts and opinions are 100% her own and were not influenced in any way.

The Inn at Newport Ranch on the Northern Mendocino Coast

Plan on taking a trip to the Mendocino Coast? Looking for lodging accommodations that offers you more than just a bed and a pillow? If so, you will want to check out the brand new The Inn at Newport Ranch right on the northern Mendocino Coast in California.

This brand new destination retreat offers luxury lodging, fine dining and soft adventure on 2,000 acres of dramatic Pacific Coastline and forested foothills and ridgetops. The surrounding scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. Located three and a half hours north of San Francisco and twenty miles north of the historic town of Mendocino, the newly constructed Inn at Newport Ranch is part of a 2,000 acre coastal cattle ranch on the site of the former town of Newport and its lumber chute.

The Inn was designed by renowned architects Dave Sellers and Jim Sanford of Warren, Vermont. The work of both architects focuses on designing and building in harmony with nature, with a special emphasis on custom craftsmanship. The structures have a number of unique architectural features, including a 20 foot wide walk-in stone fireplace, a building supported by 24 individual redwood trees, from base to cathedral-like ceiling, and a hot tub on top of a water tower that presents commanding views of the surrounding landscape. The hallway in the Main Inn is paneled with redwood boards up to five feet wide, and the living room flooring is 30-inch old growth redwood planks.

A stay at the Inn at Newport Ranch includes a made-to-order breakfast, evening fireside appetizers and libations, access to nearly all of our 2000 acres of majestic coastline and rugged forest, and on-site concierge services.

The three guest rooms in the Main Inn and three suites in the Redwood House are furnished to provide the ultimate in comfort, and can accommodate up to 14 guests. The rooms are set with various themes and appointments. All rooms have luxury bath amenities, robes, a hair dryer & a docking station with a radio.

In the Redwood House, each suite has an LCD flat screen TV, a DVD player, a private hot tub and an outdoor terrace or deck. Each suite also has a small kitchen and an outdoor grill.

The Main Inn guest rooms are small and more intimate. The access to the main living space & guest kitchen are available to all guests, as is the 6-person rooftop hot tub and sauna.

In each building, there is a recreation room with a 60-inch flat screen TV, and computer access is available in Main Inn recreation room. The entire property has wireless Internet for guest use, and telephone service for guest use is available in the Main Inn (calls within the USA are complimentary).

In addition, the owner’s ocean front vacation home – Sea Drum – is available for rentals and can accommodate up to 10 overnight guests. Sea Drum is adjacent to the Main Inn.

During their stay, guests will be offered an array of dining options. Daily menus are posted for our guests’ consideration, listing the day’s offerings. A complimentary made-to-order breakfast as well as evening fireside appetizers & libations are offered daily for all guests, and preordered lunch and dinner service are available for an extra charge.

The culinary culture at the Inn at Newport Ranch has been deemed “comfort ranch food.” The Inn sources and serves as many local ingredients and libations as possible, serves only the finest local meats and seafood, and grows some of its own vegetables, herbs, greens and flowers.

Barbecue and picnic sites such as Council Bluff are scattered throughout the property, if guests would like to enjoy a meal al fresco – next to the ocean, by a stream or on a magical hilltop with a 50 mile panoramic view.

The Inn at Newport Ranch offers horseback riding (through its partner, Richochet Ranch), as well as hiking trails, whale watching, and guided ATV adventure safaris along the dramatic coast and ridgetops and through the redwood forests.

For more information or to make reservations call 707.962.4818 or visit the website at www.theinnatnewportranch.com.