Text by Armella Stepan
Images courtesy of Blake Abes
Southern California, with its reputation for endless summer, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. You know fall has arrived when temperatures level out around 70 and beach goers pack a light sweater for sunset. For others, alfresco activities may shift a bit inland. Here are just a few of the more popular endless summer activities beyond the beach.
Sunset Season – During the late fall and winter months the sun sets directly behind Shutters on the Beach and Hotel Casa del Mar. Nature’s most spectacular light shows of the year appear to waltz around the sky from October to January. Arrive early for a prime seat at either hotel.
Pedaling Paradise – Explore the eclectic charm of L.A. County’s coastal communities along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. Also known as “The Strand,” the views of the Pacific are breathtaking and the breezes are perfect for keeping cool. Traditional and electric bikes are available for rent year-round from Perry’s on Santa Monica Beach.
Wine Country Revelry – Southern California boasts numerous wine regions that are only a day trip away. From the tasting rooms in Santa Barbara to the vineyards of Temecula, oenophiles can dine al fresco with the perfect pairing. Wine excursions are particularly popular during harvest season (aka crush season) from August to October.
Desert Adventures – Southern California desert areas spring to life in late October. Joshua Tree National Park becomes an oasis for rock climbers and stargazers, while the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers fantastic opportunities for wildflower sightings during the cooler months.
Car Culture – Classic cars and scenic drives are embedded into the area’s DNA. Take a Porsche up to 100 miles per hour at the Porsche Experience Center, cruise along the majestic Pacific Coast Highway, or explore the Petersen Automotive Museum. The beach will be here when you return.
The beauty of Southern California lies in its adaptability to the changing seasons. Whether you are seeking the buzz of beachfront fun or the serenity of desert landscapes, Southern California’s temperate climate ensures your outdoor adventures never have to end.
