10 Dumb Questions people ask all the time about California!!

Do you go to the beach all the time?

 

..pro dia nascer feliz ❤😊 #sextou #itsfriday #vemfds #defolga #happiness #beachgirls #happymoments #itsagreatlife #saudades #br #bahia #caraíva #lifeisbetterinabikini #love #brio

A photo posted by Thuanny Soares (@sthuanny) on Sep 23, 2016 at 9:29am PDT

 

Do you surf?

 

Loving @pulauswimwearhawaii as modeled by @ask_alanasachi with @woodizzle and @prototypical808 💙🌊

A photo posted by Beachlove❤️🌴👙🏄🏼 (@beachiringuito) on Sep 24, 2016 at 3:36pm PDT

 

Do you have a pool in your backyard?

 

Color lights add a lot to a project and you get a bunch of bang for the buck. Be sure to ask us about them. #majesticpoolconstruction #poolsofinstagram #pooltime #poolfun #poolrenovation #poolbuilder #contractorsofinsta #luxurypools #socalpools #poolconstruction #dreampools #newpool #temeculapools #menifeepools #murrietapools #winchesterpools #custompools #backyardfun #instapool #the_real_houses_of_ig

A photo posted by Majestic_Swimming_Pools (@majestic_swimming_pools) on Sep 16, 2016 at 3:33pm PDT

 

Do you go to Disneyland all the time?

 

Das Leben ist voller kleiner, perfekter Momente. ✨ @madamecharlie #Disney #DisneyDE #Disneygram #Disneyland #DisneylandParis #NeverGrowUp #MickyMaus #MinnieEars #HappiestPlaceOnEarth

A photo posted by Disney Deutschland (@disneydeutschland) on Sep 25, 2016 at 1:39am PDT

 

What is a California Burrito?

 

Thank you @infatuation_la for the #fabulous photo! Here's a look inside our #CaliforniaBurrito! 🌯👀 #eeeeeats

A photo posted by Chancho's Tacos 🚎 (@chanchostacos) on Sep 16, 2016 at 4:09pm PDT

 

Do you live by a Movie star?

 

#hollywood #hollywoodsign #losangeles #la #california

A photo posted by Maria Tataridou (@mia_tatti) on Sep 25, 2016 at 4:35am PDT

 

What are earthquakes like?

Didn't feel much on my side.... Hopefully the Napa's are alright? By @samagram12 #napa #napavalley #earthquake #earthquakes #napaearthquake #cali #california #caliearthquake #ca #californiaearthquakes #calilife #califorlife #visitca #tour #travel #tourcalifornia #crack #cracks #skater #skateboard #skaters #glasshalffull #beautiful #completecalifornia

A photo posted by ⓒⓞⓜⓟⓛⓔⓣⓔ ⓒⓐⓛⓘⓕⓞⓡⓝⓘⓐ (@completecalifornia) on Aug 24, 2014 at 12:46pm PDT

 

Does it ever snow?

 

 

All smiles out there 😀⛷ @nschmiedl #mammothstories #mammothaf

A photo posted by Mammoth Mountain (@mammothmountain) on Jun 8, 2016 at 11:06am PDT

 

Is In&Out really that good?

 

Late post from Vegas. Getting down with the animal. #innout#innoutburger#animal#animalstyle#fries#frenchfries#burger#burgers#hungry#hangry#eatyourheartout#eat#food#foodporn#yum#yummy#vegas#whathappensinvegasstaysinvegas

A photo posted by @shogun_sugi on Sep 25, 2016 at 3:23am PDT

 

Is traffic THAT bad?

 

My usual 35 minute drive turns into a 1.5 hour drive by 7am monday through friday 👎 😴 😵 LA Traffic stinks 😎 but i love the weather 😎 #405traffic #latraffic #southerncalifornia #beautifulweather #prowindowz

A photo posted by Fernando Medina (@prowindowz) on Mar 19, 2016 at 12:59am PDT

10 Dreamy Beaches for Kids in California

Kids, plus sand, and water are a natural equation for hours of fun for everyone! This list has it all for the water babes in your life: from picnicking to exploring or carnival rides and cotton candy! Choose your favorites and set a plan to visit one, or all of them! Plan ahead by checking the seasonal openings of each before hitting the road… Many of these are California state parks!

 

Hearts Desire Beach, Point Reyes Cove, San Francisco Bay Area-

 

A photo posted by Tara Miller (@hikergirl) on Apr 17, 2016 at 7:05pm PDT

 

On the eastern side of the Point Reyes National Seashore, Hearts Desire faces gentle Tomales Bay and the hills of Marin County. Your kids will enjoy the freshwater stream running along the shore and into the bay, and the walk down through the beautiful trees to get there. While not warm waters, the lack of waves make for great wading and swimming and certainly warmer waters than the nearby Pacific! Easily find a hiking trail that leads to a neighboring beach. Parking can be tricky on weekends and holidays, carpool with family or friends when possible. Cellphone service isn’t reliable, so make plans ahead of time to meet and coordinate.

Carmel Beach, Carmel, California, Monterey Peninsula-

 

Another day, another beach! #beachlife ... #carmelbythesea #carmelbeach #beach #california #highway1 #lifewelltravelled #livelikealocal #roadtrip

A photo posted by janevilleneuve (@janevilleneuve) on Jul 22, 2016 at 5:32pm PDT

 

Carmel Beach offers up its gorgeous, soft sand in an enchanting setting. The abundant cypress trees frame the adorable downtown district perfect for strolling, grabbing an artisan pastry from a local bakery, and shopping too! Your kids will love to build sandcastles and splash in the surf that is typically tame along the one mile crescent-shaped beach. Bring your canine- Carmel Beach is great for dogs and kiddos alike! Hours of fun can be had with your furry pal and kids tossing a ball and chasing waves. Be sure to check the local weather- during the summer, you will sometimes find fog during the day that burns off into the afternoon.

Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach, Orange County-

 

Magic hour 🌙

A photo posted by Meg Eissagholian (@megg__eissa) on Jul 17, 2016 at 8:11pm PDT

 

Feel free to stretch out and explore along the 3.2 miles of oceanfront sprinkled with tide pools and secret coves! Fly a kite, play in the friendly surf and beach comb for natural treasures. Hike along a network of trails that head inland but offer sweeping views of the pacific. There are popular routes for biking, hiking and horseback riding! Hungry after all of that activity? Head to the Beachcomber restaurant that sits on the sand and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Or, check out Ruby’s Shake Shack on PCH overlooking Crystal Cove for a delectable milkshake that will have you returning on your next visit!

Natural Bridges State Beach, Santa Cruz-

 

#naturalbridges #beach #latepost #santacruz #stanimalexplores

A photo posted by Stan (@stanimal_official) on Jul 25, 2016 at 7:24am PDT

With its namesake natural rock bridge that sits just offshore, Natural Bridges Beach offers an abundance of unique features that make it a must see! Make a point to visit during October through February to view the 100,000 Monarch Butterflies that are naturally attracted each year to the milkweed plants off a nearby grassland trail. Your junior naturalist will be captivated by the fascinating finds in the tide pools, in the Monarch preserve and by the dozens of pelicans making their perch on the rocks. Picnic on the sand or tucked away in the pine and eucalyptus trees. Also a great breezy spot for flying kites and catching a colorful sunset on the right day.

Arroyo Burro Beach, Santa Barbara-

 

#douglasfamilypreserve #santabarbara #arroyoburrobeach

A photo posted by Eric Satterblom (@esatterblom) on Jun 29, 2016 at 5:15pm PDT

Come for the safe swimming, amateur surfing, and the opportunity to cast a line here at the spot also known as Hendry’s Beach. Play around on the sunny sand, break at the shady picnic area and enjoy the playground. You and your kids will want to explore trails and stop at the Watershed Resource Center which offers educational highlights about the importance of protecting California’s beaches and shores.  

Crissy Field, San Francisco-

On a sunny day, the absolute best picnic view is at Crissy Field. Grab a latte at the Warming Hut and browse through the books.#travelblogger #travelblog #sanfrancisco #crissyfields #crissyfield #goldengatebridge

A photo posted by Adventures in Fluency (@advens_fluency) on Jul 24, 2016 at 11:51am PDT

 

Just like the kids, the action at Crissy Field is always ON. Bring the family dog, they can romp off leash here. The inviting waters edge of the San Francisco Bay offers Golden Gate views, picnic space on grassy open spaces, and room to romp. Check out the expert surfers as they ride waves under the bridge or kite surfers catching a breeze. An ideal spot for views of Alcatraz, watching sailboats and freight liners, and admiring California’s most iconic bridge. Bring a thermos with hot cocoa, sit back and enjoy the national parkland that was once a paved-over airfield for The Presidio.

Coronado, San Diego-

 

Paradise

A photo posted by Alberto Olaya (@alberto_olaya) on Jul 26, 2016 at 5:48pm PDT

An island getaway that is easy to reach, Coronado Beach is easy to explore and enjoy in an ultra-family-friendly environment. The small island feels like a private enclave wrapped with soft sand beaches and a historic hotel- the Hotel Del Coronado. Enjoy a delicious Sunday brunch, and views of the pacific, and then explore by rented bike. Pedal past mansions with tended gardens, or visit Orange Avenue dotted with shops, theaters, restaurants and galleries.

Silver Strand State Beach, San Diego County-

#coronadobeaches #silverstrandstatebeach #visitcalifornia #visitcoronado #californiadreaming lifornia

A photo posted by Jennifer Palm (@lv2bnsf) on Jul 17, 2016 at 3:18pm PDT

Why not try surfing in the friendly breakers with the Coronado Surfing Academy? Kids will love splashing around on the calm waters on the San Diego Bay side, or learning to hang ten on the Pacific side. The side known as Crown Cove offers sand around warmer waters conducive to running around and building a bon fire on the beach with the family. The heart-pounding, wide blue surf of the Pacific side, is the perfect opportunity to have the best of both. To access the bay side, you will access pedestrian tunnels- be prepared to carry your gear from the parking area to your chosen spot. Pavilions, picnic tables, grills and fire pits are available.

Santa Monica Pier & Beach-

#SantaMonica #pier #farriswheel #wheel #waves #sunset #park #ombre #amusementpark #stroll #happy #instagood #hikenation #LA

A photo posted by Frank Peralta (@mr_p_mosh) on Jul 27, 2016 at 10:28pm PDT

Catch the sunset while strolling on the iconic Santa Monica Pier as the twinkling lights of the amusement park create a nostalgic feeling against a pastel sky! Pacific park offers the perfect setting perched on the edge of the pier to make lasting memories of fun for the whole family! Not too-scary rides and coasters will have the kids grinning and giggling with delight. Don't forget to dazzle your senses with the incomparable views while riding the pier’s solar powered ferris wheel. Check out some 100 species of fish and aquatic life at the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium under the pier. Lastly, but certainly not least, the broad expanse of yellow sand will beckon the entire family to its 3.5 miles of coastal greatness. Rent a paddle board to explore off the shore and get a VIP experience with your own Perry’s on the Beach Butler Service.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk-

Freezing time, we should try that sometime. oh wait, every time. ⏱

A photo posted by @amycuii on Jul 27, 2016 at 11:51pm PDT

A popular beach stop for California families since the 20’s, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a smorgasbord of entertainment options for the entire family. Add to that a perfectly splashable shoreline, rides, food galore, beach volleyball and arcades, you may never get the family to leave for home! Within the countless attractions, the Big Dipper, a giant, burly, wooden roller coaster has been drawing thrill seekers since it’s first days. When the squealing fun has become too much to tolerate, relax high above it all on the overhead Sky Glider, offering drone worthy views of all the action, surf, and nearby mountains. In the summer, make a plan to catch a free outdoor movie on the sand- Wednesdays or free concerts- Fridays on the beach! Be sure to make the short walk to the wharf for fresh seafood, clam chowder in a bread bowl and salt water taffy!

Once you’ve lived in Southern California it’s pretty hard to live anywhere else. There is no other place with better food, weather, scenery & entertainment

When you were a kid you were probably forced to eat something you didn't like. Your parents probably never told you that when you grow up, you may just find yourself eating something crazy on purpose. We've found 14 outrageous meals that you won't believe actually exist. Yes, people decide to eat these things--and they like them!

14 Outrageous California Meals

1. Doughnut Burger - San Francisco

You may love hamburgers and you may love doughnuts, but would you love them together? Straw in San Francisco offers The Ringmaster - a cheese burger stuck between two glazed doughnuts (source). It's an interesting take on salty and sweet, but have they gone too far? Flickr by Robyn Lee

2. Deep-Fried Piglet - Los Angeles

Well, you may have enjoyed Whinny the Pooh, but what about eating Piglet too? According to Andrew Zimmern, Fords Filling Station in L.A. offers deep-fried piglet. You can also order the whole pig if you're looking for more. Apparently, they are big on pigs here... Flickr by Larry

3. Whipper Burger - Los Angeles

According to the Hawkins Burgers menu, the Whipper Burger comes complete with two hamburger patties, pastrami, and a hot-link. There's also the option for cheese, and at that point, you might as well. From Hawkins Burgers

4. Slater's 50/50 - Southern California

Now, a burger isn't outrageous in and of itself, but include 50% bacon with 50% ground beef to create the 50/50 burger at Slater's 50/50 and you've got yourself something pretty amazing. But it doesn't stop there. They also offer a peanut butter and jelly hamburger, Fritos added to a burger, and a 'bacon everything' burger. We'll recommend the whole Slater's experience as outrageous! Flickr by Drew Hubbard, Ben Waters

5. 12 Egg Omelet - Antioch

You'd better like eggs if you're brave enough to try this omelet at Lumpy's Diner. We're talking 12 eggs that combine to make an omelet the size of a football! Flickr by nathanmac87

6. Chicken and Waffles - Southern California

Roscoe's is famous for their chicken and waffles. Yes, it's a "strange" combination and definitely rates on our outrageous California meals list, but it's surprisingly tasty. Once you try it, we're pretty sure you'll like it! Flickr by James Bilbrey

7. Hubcap Challenge- Roseville

When you think of pancakes, you think a nice, manageable sized pancake with some syrup. At Jim-Denny's, pancakes aren't quite so 'manageable'. They offer the Hubcap Challenge - a huge pancake the size of a hubcap. Adding "spokes" means adding bacon or sausage on top. This outrageously large pancake offers up quite the challenge. Could you beat it? From Foodspotting

8. BurritoZilla - San Jose

Iguana's Burritozilla offers one of the most outrageous California meals with their five pound, 18-inch burrito titled "BurritoZilla". It is the mother of all burritos and takes several tortillas just to make it. Would you be up for the challenge of conquering this giant burrito? From Iguana's Burritozilla's Facebook Page

9. Toffee Meal Worms - San Francisco

You may have eaten bugs as a kid accidentally...but now, it's "okay" to eat them as a grown up. That is, if you are willing to get past the fact that you're eating bugs. Don Bugito's has all of your bug taste buds covered. They are an "edible insect street food project" advertizing edible insects as a way to introduce high-protein foods (like bugs) as an answer for the shortage of these types of food. Check out their Etsy shop for products like Chocolate Covered Salted Crickets, Chile-Lime Crickets, and their most popular Toffee Mealworms. From Says.com

10. Chicken Liver Toast - Los Angeles

The first item on the Animal restaurant menu is Chicken Liver Toast. According to Yelpers, it's a good option on the menu and priced very reasonably. They also offer a host of other fun and different options just right for a discerning foodie. Would you pick the Chicken Liver Toast? From Darin Dines

11. "Kryptonite" Sandwich - San Francisco

At Ike's Place you can test your superhero capabilities to see if you can withstand the Kryptonite Sandwhich! With these ingredients: "Avocado, Bacon, Beer Battered Onion Rings, EXTRA Pepper Jack, Ham, Mozzarella Sticks, Pastrami, Pesto, Roast Beef, Salami, Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers, Turkey" (source) and weighing almost 4 pounds, you may have met your match with this sandwhich. It definitely qualifies for our outrageous California meals list! From Tumbler  

12. Ring of Fire Hot Sauce - San Pedro

So...this isn't a meal, but it's pretty outrageous. The 710Grille's Ring of Fire Hot Sauce on their chicken wings is just as painful as it is tasty. Yelpers say to have a drink ready because your mouth will feel like it's on fire after eating these babies! From Sure Beats Work

13. Dinosaur Sized Ribs - San Diego

As one of the top 10 restaurants in San Diego, Phil's BBQ has a lot to offer, including Dinosaur Sized Ribs covered in Phil's own secret BBQ sauce. You will not walk away hungry, but that assuming you're even up for the challenge! From SanDiegoVille

14. Surfin' California Burrito - San Diego

You haven't seen outrageous until you've seen Lucha Libre Taco Shop's Surfin' California Burrito. With these ingredients: "Grilled Steak, Shrimp, Fresh French Fries, Avocado, Pico De Gallo, Cheese, & Super Secret Chipotle Sauce" (source) you will be amazed and slightly overwhelmed (I know I was when I visited!). French Fries, you may say. Yes. 100% yes. This amazing burrito isn't for the faint of heart, but the taste is outrageously good and definitely needs to be on this list! From The Wanderers

We know we didn't catch them all. What outrageous meal do you enjoy?

  Sources: TV Food Maps Cover Photo from Flickr by Bob B. Brown

Put on some red, white, and blue and head out to see the fireworks! We've compiled a list of some of the best spots to view fireworks in California. We know cities all over California will be showing off their best and brightest fireworks. Hopefully we've included a city near you!

California Firework Viewing Hot Spots

Mt. Shasta

See some of the best fireworks in Northern California from the Mt. Shasta Resort (a $2 fee) or sit on the beach at the Lake Siskiyou Campground. From mtshastafireworks.com

Eureka

Directed over Arcata Bay, the best place to view these fireworks is from the Eureka boardwalk area. Flickr by Christian Arballo

Redding

View the fireworks show from Caldwell Park. Flickr by Joey Gannon

Sacramento

A great show at the CalExpo Miller Lite Grandstand (Fairgrounds). Admission is free though parking is $10. Flickr by four years

South Lake Tahoe

These fireworks can be viewed (for free) from a spot on the beach overlooking the lake (suggested that you can park and walk to the beach). Flickr by simplistic.designs

Vallejo

Spend some time at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom and see some amazing fireworks. Flickr by Socalmacker

San Francisco

There are many firework shows in San Francisco, but some of the best places mentioned for firework viewing are:

• Pier 39 in (watch from Embarcadero or Fort Mason)
• Indian Rock
• Marine Headlands
• For Miley
• Sausalito's show (just north of the Golden Gate Bridge on Richardson Bay)

Flickr by David Yu

Santa Cruz

Apparently, Santa Cruz puts on quite the explosive Firework show with illegal fireworks! Flickr by simon sun

Santa Barbara

Set off from West Beach, these fireworks last almost 20 minutes and are said to be an amazing show. Flickr by Angela Sevin

Pismo Beach

View from Oceano Dunes and come prepared to camp for the best spot available. Flickr by Chris Hearn  

Clovis

Join the Freedom Fest and see fireworks from the Buchanan High School in Clovis ($5 fee). From E.A. Creative Photography

Los Angeles

Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Spectacular with Steve Marin and The Steep Canyon Rangers. A night you won't soon forget. Grand Park at the LA Civic Center offers the biggest rooftop firework show in LA. Flickr by iwishmynamewasmarsha

Santa Monica

Come to the Santa Monica College Corsair Field on the Westside and enjoy exhibits and entertainment with amazing fireworks to end your night with a BANG! Flickr by iwishmynamewasmarsha

Marina del Rey

Set off from a barge in the bay, these fireworks over the water are a beautiful sight. Flickr by simplistic.designs Pasadena Americafest at the Rose Bowl - fireworks begin at 9pm. Flickr by Socalmacker

Redondo Beach

Seen from Redondo Beach Pier, the fireworks are complete with themed music. Flickr by iwishmynamewasmarsha

Long Beach

Hop aboard the Queen Mary for an All-American 4th of July display you won't forget ($39.99 admission). Flickr by Chris Parker

San Diego

The beautiful city of San Diego boasts many locations to view fireworks:

• Marina District
• North Embarcadero
• Shelter Island
• Harbor Island
• Seaport Village/South Embarcadero
• Coronado Ferry Landing

Flickr by Nathan Rupert

Where's your hot spot for firework viewing in California?

  Cover photo from Flickr by Jeff Turner Source: Travel Tips, About.com, USA Today, AMP Radio