Now that we’re in the heart of the summer season, it’s a good time to put together a list of fun adventures that the whole family will enjoy. From day trips to weekend trips to quick afternoon adventures, here’s a list of some of the best places to check out over the next few months. Which ones are at the top of your list?
1. Tom's Farms
Head to the city of Corona and you'll find a local gem that everyone should experience at least once. You'll enjoy a variety of activities including a train ride, a farmers market, multiple restaurants and a petting zoo. You can visit Tom's Farms at 23900 Temescal Canyon Rd., Corona, CA.
2. Green Valley Lake
When a place is known as "the best-kept secret in the San Bernardino Mountains," you better check it out quick before the rest of the world finds out. Perfect for a weekend getaway, Green Valley Lake is a relaxing spot where you can slow down and spend some time out in nature and out on the water.
3. Point Dume Cove Trail
When you're seeking an escape from your ordinary summer routine, head to Malibu for an afternoon adventure and check out this short hiking trail that offers the most picturesque scenery. Point Dume Cove Trail, approximately two-miles round trip, offers stunning ocean views and a soothing breeze that will refresh you on a hot summer day.
This leisurely hiking trail can be found at 27807 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265.
4. Highland Springs Ranch and Inn
Tucked inside the town of Cherry Valley, you'll find the historic Highland Springs Ranch. Head here for a day trip or an overnighter and you'll find a slice of paradise where you can hike, shop, and stay the night in an old-fashioned rustic cottage.
Highland Springs Ranch and Inn is located at 10600 Highland Springs Ave., Cherry Valley, CA.
5. Frank G Bonneli Regional Park
When you only have time for a day trip, this local gem is the perfect place to go on a summer afternoon. You'll discover an outdoor oasis packed with tons of hiking and walking trails, beautiful grounds for a picnic, a play structure for the kiddos, and a 250-acre lake where you can enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing.
This fun local park can be found at 120 E. Via Verde, San Dimas, CA.
6. Lake Jennings Campground
It isn't officially summertime until there is some camping involved. One of our favorite camping destinations in Southern California is Lake Jennings where you can enjoy an overnight camping adventure with a lakefront view. In addition to traditional tent camping, you can also rent a teepee for a fun twist on an overnighter in the great outdoors.
You can find Lake Jennings Campground at 10108 Bass Rd., Lakeside, CA.
7. Adventure Playground
Adventure Playground, a local favorite, can be found inside Huntington Central Park. Open during the summer season only, this adventurous park offers a variety of fun activities for kids including mudslides, rafting on a small pond, and fort building.
You can find Adventure Playground inside Huntington Central Park at 18000 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach, CA 92648.
8. Torrey Pines State Reserve
Located in the lovely city of La Jolla, Torrey Pines State Reserve is one of the most magnificent places to be in the summertime. You'll find picturesque hiking trails with soaring ocean views that seem to go on forever. Whether you are seeking a challenging hike or a quick 1/2 mile stroll along the trail, you'll find a little bit of everything at this outdoor oasis.
You can find Torrey Pines State Reserve at located at 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037.
9. Dana Point Harbor
Spend a day at this harborside destination and you will feel completely refreshed in no time. Dana Point Harbor, located in Orange County, offers tons of activities the whole family will enjoy. You'll find tons of great dining, boating, waterfront walking trails, and a beautiful sandy beach where you can lounge on a sunny afternoon.
10. Three Sisters Waterfalls Trail
If you love a summertime hike, then you're going to be excited to check out this hike in SoCal that leads straight to a waterfall. Three Sisters Falls Trail, a moderate four-mile hike, is a great spot for some exercise in the great outdoors with a wonderful payoff at the end. Not only is there a waterfall but you'll also find a refreshing swimming hole. It can get pretty hot out on the trail in the summer season so make sure to load up on water and pack a little more than you think you'll need.
You can find this refreshing trail at 1450 Boulder Creek Rd., Julian, CA 92036.
Looking for more ways to embrace SoCal during the summer season? Make sure to check out this road trip in Southern California that will give you the best beach day you’ve ever had.
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