Alhambra is only 40 miles from Orange County, which makes for the perfect opportunity for a fun-packed, sun-drenched, beach-combing weekend road trip. So pack the flip-flops, sun screen, beach towels, shades, and a California music mix, buckle up, and hit the road.
Pacific Coast Highway 1
Whoever said the journey was more important than the destination was probably talking about the iconic Pacific Coast Highway 1. Start your epic weekend getaway to the OC by driving south down the PCH from Seal Beach. From there, it’s nothing but ocean views and sea breezes as you ease on down the road.
Huntington Beach Pier
Surf’s up and the sun goes down in epic colors at the landmark Huntington Beach Pier. Whether you’re surfing, ogling the surfers, or strolling the pier, there’s plenty of sights to feed the eyes and the soul. To feed the body, partake of fresh seafood dishes washed down with umbrella drinks at any one of a number of rooftop lounges or beachfront eateries.
Old World’s Oktoberfest
We interrupt your beach blanket bingo for a total non sequitur. Old World Huntington Beach throws down in the grand style of Germany’s Oktoberfest from September through November. Take a break from the sound of seagulls and dive into the finest German beer and bratwurst this side of the Rhine River. After an evening of beer, sausages, oompah music and wiener dog racing, you can safely head back to the beach with barely a hiccup in the road trip.
Crystal Cove Beach Cottages
Why stay in a motel when you can slide into sleep with the sound of waves and a serene sea view? Check in to your own retro beach cottage from the 1930s at Crystal Cove. Most of these historic beach cottages have been lovingly restored for that authentic beach shack party vibe. Reserve early for your best chance to catch a cottage. If you prefer to rough it, pitch a tent in Crystal Cove State Park after a day of hiking pristine nature trails.
Tidal Pools and Bizarre Art Festivals at Laguna Beach
Get your toes wet in one of the many tidal pools along Laguna Beach. Rocks and ocean clash to form clusters of beautiful tidal pools adorned with sea anemones. At the Pageant of the Masters, watch 90 minutes of tableaux vivants, or living pictures. People dress up to re-enact the world’s most famous paintings by the masters.
Whale Watching at Dana Point
If poking around in tidal pools for sea anemones isn’t enough of a marine wildlife experience for you, book a boat tour at Dana Point for some quality whale watching. While you have your highest chance of spotting whales in September, you’re always sure to get pics of playful dolphins squeaking and splashing about in the waves.
From Dana Point, you could fast track back toward Alhambra by taking I-5 north, passing through Anaheim, and stopping for some signature boysenberry pie at Knott’s Berry Farm. Or better yet, reverse your course and head back up the PCH. That way, the driver’s side of the car gets the killer ocean view all the way back.
Image “Day’s End – Huntington Beach, CA, USA” by Slipshod Photog, used under CC BY-ND 2.0
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