Even though the kids get time off from school during the summer months, spring time is the best time to go to most of the locations. The summer months get too hot spend time on the beach and therefore are just not ideal for a vacation at times. What then should you do? Should you just forget the idea of getting time off just because the kids cannot take off during spring?
Check out some of the weekend spring getaways in Northern California that are worth a visit, with kids or without them!
Spring Time Getaways: The Napa Valley
With picturesque views that have vineyards planted on slanting hills, a Napa Valley weekend getaway is actually a place you can visit at any time of the year. Even though you may have driven to this town, make sure that you rent a bicycle to take advantage of the numerous bike tracks and the scenic beauty that lines them. You can do a 10 mile trip to Yountville or a 30 mile one to Calistoga if you feel fit.
Obviously you have to stop by the vineyards for some interesting and rejuvenating wine tasting. The Artesa Winery offers a great view as you sip the refreshing wines too. You could also choose to take a sip out of the goblets at the Domaine Carneros or the Clos Du Val Winery.
While you are at the Napa Valley, you cannot afford to miss the Napa Valley Wine Train or the hot air balloon ride that the place offers. The best places to eat out here include Celadon and Zuzu.
Spring Time Getaways: Half Moon Bay
Shaped like a crescent, this bay is actually a nice small town and is a great place to go if you want to get away from the regular tourist attractions. A great place for families that are active Half Moon Bay offers a host of water sports. While you are here you should make sure not to miss the murals painted along the side streets.
Beach activities include taking a trip in the California Canoe and Kayak other rides. Between February and March you can see the elephant seals coming up to the beaches. If you are visiting Half Moon Bay during the Cork and Bottle days you will be surprised at the rate at which you can fill your own wine bottle and get it corked too. Some of the annual events that happen here include the Maverick Surf Contest, the pacific Coast Dream Machine, Tour Des Fleurs and the Pumpkin Festival.
Spring Time Getaways: Santa Cruz
If you are a sail boating fan and find it interesting to move with the wind, then Santa Cruz may be the place to go. While the town is known for its surfing competitions and more, it is also host to the country’s best Shakespeare festivals.
The West Cliff Drive is a pretty site and covers most of the attractions that there are to see in the town. Monarch butterflies with orange and black coloring fill the area and adorn the trees.
Spring Time Getaways: Gold Country
An interesting and different weekend getaway is Gold Country where you may not get the sun and the sand but the antiques and the mines will mesmerize you equally. The Columbia State Historic Park will take you to the days of the Gold Rush.
Take a tour of the gold mines and shop for antiques. If you are still looking for some water fun, then whitewater rafting is a possibility here on the Tuolumne River.
But what about you? Where do you like to take a break before the heat of the summer? Share your ideas with us!
