Want to soak up every moment of summer in Southern California? Take a look at these 12 fabulous spaces and places that will make your summer in SoCal one to remember. Get ready to savor long days and breezy nights in some of the most beautiful spots in the southern part of the state.
1. Day Trip to a Quaint Lakeside Town -- Crestline
Summertime is the best time of year to visit the town of Crestline. Spend some time at Lake Gregory, wander through the quaint downtown area, and take picturesque trails through this mountain getaway that feels like it's a million miles away from the city.
2. Outdoor Dining
Even though we may find ourselves dining outside all year long, nothing quite beats an al fresco meal in the heat of the evening summer sun.
3. Hike to a Waterfall
Cedar Creek Falls is an extremely challenging hike in San Diego County, but the heavenly waterfall that you'll encounter on this trail will make your summer epic. Make sure to bring plenty of water with you to avoid dehydration and please consult the Cleveland National Forest website before you hit the trail to ensure you are prepared for this strenuous SoCal hike.
4. Hike Slot Canyon in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
A cool and breezy summer morning in SoCal is the perfect time to take a walk on the wild side through rugged Slot Canyon in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. You'll need your water for this one and loads of sunscreen. Head out early in the day to avoid the harsh afternoon heat.
5. Friday Night Fireworks at Dodger Stadium
If you love baseball, fireworks shows, and music, then you won't want to miss Friday Night Fireworks at Dodger Stadium during each home game this summer.
6. Walk barefoot in the sand
Pick a beach, any beach, and kick off your shoes and stroll through the sand. That's the perfect way to enjoy a SoCal summer day, afternoon, or evening.
7. Idyllwild Jazz in the Pines
It doesn't get much better than a summer jazz festival tucked inside a charming SoCal mountain town. Make sure to book tickets early for Idyllwild Jazz in the Pines as this event is coming up on August 11,12 and 13th and often sells out early.
8. Day Trip to Laguna Beach
Hop in the car and head to Laguna Beach for a fun summer outing. Whether you're a local or a tourist you'll have fun spending the day wandering through one of SoCal's prettiest seaside towns. Add even more fun to your adventure and take a ride on the free trolley to see parts of Laguna Beach you don't often get a chance to explore.
9. Zip Line Eco Tour -- Catalina Island
Summer is all about trying out new adventures and seeking out new experiences. If you're up for the thrill of a lifetime, you'll want to try out this zipline tour on Catalina Island that will take you above the world.
10. Summertime Picnics
Pick your favorite park or recreation area and head out for a summertime picnic in SoCal. Pictured here is Palisades Park in Santa Monica, one of our favorite spots to spread out a blanket and have an afternoon feast.
11. Channel Islands National Park
Throughout the summer you may want to take some time to explore the five islands that make up the Channel Islands National Park. They are not as easy to get to as most places in SoCal, but if you plan ahead this is one visit you'll never forget.
12. Take a cliffside hike -- Torrey Pines
Perhaps one of the most popular and scenic hikes in La Jolla, Torrey Pines State Reserve offers soaring ocean views and magnificent scenery in every direction. Located at 12600 N Torrey Pines Road.
Do you have a favorite way to enjoy summertime in SoCal? With so many things to see and do, sometimes it seems impossible to pick. If you're looking for more ideas to add to your Southern California summer bucket list, take a look at our Only In Your State homepage and browse through hundreds of fabulous places and spaces to visit in the southern part of the state.
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