Top Five Underrated California Summer Vacation Ideas

You already know that the best summertime getaways are in the US, but did you know that the hands-down best getaways for families are actually in California? Already a travel Mecca in its own right, there are a number of under-appreciated vacation destinations.

Santa Ana Family Vacation Ideas

The City of Santa Ana is gradually coming out of a decline. Parts of downtown are sketchy, but the business district features chain hotels -- like the Hampton Inn, Quality Suites or Best Western -- with easy freeway access. Local attractions include the Santa Ana Zoo, Bowers Museum and Discovery Science Center. The same holds true for Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm. A short drive takes the family to Southern California beaches. Chain restaurants ensure cheap eats for the whole family.

Victorville: Best US Getaways for Car Guys

Not too many people would pinpoint Victorville as one of the best summer vacation ideas. Of course, these same folks also do not know about Californians' love affair with the automobile. Home of the California Route 66 Museum, it is a vacation destination for the car aficionado who plans on taking some day trips on historic Route 66. Stay at the Hilton Garden Inn or Ambassador Hotel, and do not forget to visit local watering holes -- the locals love to take about the many movies that filmed in this area.

Simi Valley Summer Vacation Ideas for Golfers

Six golf courses say that Simi Valley is one of the best US getaways for golfers. Vistas of the Santa Susana Mountains and Simi Hills cement this opinion. For cultural venues, do not forget to visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Grandma Prisbrey's Bottle Village. Stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Ventura or opt for the stylish Best Western Plus Posada Royale Hotel & Suites. Chain eateries keep up your strength while not demanding too much of the funds budgeted for golf.

Mammoth Lakes is Still One of the Best Outdoor Getaways

California tourists already appreciate Mammoth for its premier skiing venues, but when it comes to summer vacation ideas, the city does not rank as high. Granted, there are no nearby amusements parks and hopping nightlife. Instead, there is fishing galore and hiking to match. Plan on camping at Coldwater Creek, Convict Lake or taking the rig to Mammoth Mountain RV Park; fish for dinner. Hike all day, but steer clear of the bears.

Hollywood in the Summer

Hollywood is not technically a city, but the chamber of commerce figures that it might as well be. Known as L.A.'s star-studded heartbeat, the film lover, avoid movie-goer and celebrity hound is sure to enjoy a summer vacation in Hollywood. Nearby Southern California beaches allow for people-watching; the Grove provides ample fodder for the budding paparazzo. Stay at the Hollywood Celebrity Hotel and ask for the currently "in" eateries at the concierge desk. What's hot in L.A. changes virtually overnight. Visit the Walk of Fame, Hollywood sign and movie openings.

Location Resources

City of Santa Ana
20 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
(714) 647-5400

City of Victorville
14343 Civic Drive
Victorville, CA 92393
(760) 955-5000

City of Simi Valley
2929 Tapo Canyon Road
Simi Valley, CA 93063
(805) 583-6700

Mammoth Lakes
437 Old Mammoth Road
Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
(760) 934-8989

Hollywood Chamber of Commerce
7018 Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood, CA 90028
(323) 469-8311