In the latest Visit California commercial, “Childhood Rules,” kids play their way across the Golden State—then find out that they have more in common with their parents than they perhaps thought. Want to follow in their footsteps on your next trip? Here’s where to go:
Catch a Wave and a Sunset at Torrey Pines State Beach, San Diego
San Diego boasts 70 miles of pristine coastline—ready for sandcastle-building, surfing, and lounging. Families love Torrey Pines State Beach, featured in the ad, for its wide-open spaces and mellow vibes. Add a nature hike to your day, too: The beach neighbors the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, home to long-needled Torrey pine trees and easy trails with big ocean views, especially at sunset.
Explore Among the Redwoods, Northern California
California is home to the tallest trees on the planet, and many redwood tree–covered state parks are located around the San Francisco Bay Area, where parts of the ad were filmed. Spend a day or two among the trees on your trip—at parks such as Henry Cowells Redwood State Park in Santa Cruz County, Portola Redwoods State Park in San Mateo County, and Muir Woods National Monument in Marin County. For even more redwood magic, plan a trip around the Redwood National and State Parks along the North Coast.
Remember that you can help preserve these special parks by always staying on designated trails and by not disturbing any plant life. For more tips, check out How to Enjoy California’s Parks and Public Lands.
Ride the Swings at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz
The coastal town of Santa Cruz offers a serious retro thrill: Its Beach Boardwalk
features an arcade, laser tag, treats, and lots of family rides, all with sweeping views of Monterey Bay. Don’t miss a few rides that are rich with history: the 1911 Looff Carousel, the 1924 Giant Dipper roller coaster—both National Historic Landmarks—and the Sea Swings featured in the commercial.
Go horseback riding on the sand, Pismo Beach
For some outside-the-box beach fun and plenty of room to roam, head to Pismo Beach in San Luis Obispo County. The wide beaches include the Oceano Dunes Natural Preserve, where you can take guided horseback rides on the beach or along dune trails. Or, rent an ATV: Pismo Beach is also home to the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, one of few beaches in California that allows OHVs (off-highway vehicles) on the sand, with a speed limit of 15 mph.
Taken from: https://www.visitcalifornia.com/experience/visit-these-places-where-childhood-rules/