Beverly Hills is of course known for it’s celebrity status, with many mansions and shopping centers. The hotels here are equally luxurious, with every desire catered to. West Hollywood is another great area, home of the famous Sunset Strip, which offers amazing dining, nightlife and shopping. It is also the cultural center of L.A., having tons of art galleries and showrooms to keep you busy.

Santa Monica and Manhattan Beach are also desirable, being beach side and having a great pier with ideal fishing opportunities. These areas have their equal share of fine restaurants, shopping malls and districts, and great bars that provide excellent night life. As a result, parking is difficult, so it’s suggested to take a taxi to get into the hottest spots in the city. Manhattan Beach is also only 3 miles from Los Angeles International Airport, so it has easy access for travelers and tourists.

Monterey is also a great family vacation destination, with many activities the kids will love. For example, the Bay Aquarium has the most beautiful displays of marine life, and just near by is a giant kid’s park, appropriately named Dennis the Menace Park.

The restaurants in Monterey are also top quality, with plenty to choose from, and some of the best Mexican dishes around. The trip into Monterey is also worth the while, heading up highway 101 will give you plenty of amazing views of the famous coastline. Monterey Lighthouse Ave., Ocean View Blvd, Sunset Dr will give you great scenic routes from Fisherman’s Wharf to Cannery Row. You can also see Lover’s Point and around the peninsular is Pebble Beach and Carmel, which makes for an amazing road trip. You will have plenty to see before you even get into the city, with so many sights to see from your car window, or on commute from the airport.

But this is a place for more than just wine and cheese, you can tour in a bus, jeep, limo, carriage, or even a hot air balloon. Many tour packages are also available, that can appeal to any taste or budget. You can tour the ever popular Napa Valley, and have a package that includes lunch or dinner, a mystery theatre, mountain biking, spa or overnight resort accommodation. These tours include historical information, descriptions of the process and other interesting facts.

Visiting California’s wine country can be the perfect solution to that little weekend get away you had been planning. Whether its a romantic vacation, or time to unwind with friends and family. If you’re planning your vacation, be sure to choose a good time of year, closer to the harvest. However, there are year round opportunities and tours, just consider the weather factor for your next vacation.