Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts

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1 Week in the US Southwest: Desert Road Trips, National Parks & California Coastline

Jump in your car and explore the incredible natural landscapes the American Southwest has to offer. With one week to spend, get away from it all with visits to Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks. Admire expansive views of the Grand Canyon and the unique Antelope Canyon. Hike your way through the incomparable Zion National Park and enjoy the sunset in Bryce Canyon. Reinvigorate your traveling spirit by taking advantage of these week-long trips close to home. These trips are designed from Los Angeles and Las Vegas but can be adapted to other starting points within the area as well.

American Southwest National Parks Road Trip - 8 Days

The southwestern corner of the United States is home to some of the most frequently visited national parks. From hiking through Zion National Park to soaking in views of the Grand Canyon, experiencing these natural landscapes is truly something special. Explore the picturesque Antelope Canyon and traverse the trails of Bryce Canyon while getting to know the American Southwest up close on this adventurous getaway.

Northern California Long Weekend Trips: Coastal Drives, Wine Weekends, & Sierra Exploration

Escape the San Francisco Bay Area with one of these long weekend trips along the coast, into the wine valleys, or up to the Sierras. Enjoy days of hiking coastal trails along windswept bluffs, tasting world-renowned wines, discovering the historical past of California, or hiking up to granite cliffs or among the world's largest trees. Here are five great ways to get out of town this summer and explore more of your extended backyard.

Mexico Wine Country Getaway - 5 Days

Looking for a new area on the West Coast for a wine weekend? Discover the up-and-coming wine region of Baja California in Guadalupe Valley. This area has begun to produce wine in the last couple of decades, capitalizing on its unique microclimate, and is now appearing on the radar of many wine lovers looking for a compelling new experience. Grab your passport, escape the city, taste an array of excellent local wines, and enjoy the incredible scenery of the Guadalupe Valley.

Central California Road Trip: Monterey, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, Paso Robles, & More - 7 Days

This loop through Central California offers a delightful sampler of the best of the Golden State: dramatic coastline, charming towns, captivating history and, of course, plenty of wine. Following the coast south from the Monterey Peninsula to Santa Barbara and Channel Islands National Park, before heading back north through some of the state's best wine regions, makes for an unforgettable week.

Florida Keys Road Trip - 7 Days

This itinerary takes you on a journey from Miami to Key West and back. In 7 days, you'll explore the Florida Keys by land and sea and discover the best that these islands have to offer. You'll spend time outdoors each day, but the activities will be varied, relaxing and exhilarating. Get ready to snorkel, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, float, and jet ski your way through this exciting week-long getaway.

Northern California Coast and Wine Country Road Trip - 7 Days

This weeklong road trip will take you along the stunning, uncrowded coastline of Northern California from Bodega Bay north to Mendocino, before heading back through some of California's top wine regions. After taking it slow in The Sea Ranch and kayaking through sea caves near the charming village of Mendocino, you'll make your way via the Anderson Valley wine region to the famous Napa Valley for hot springs and more vineyard hopping before returning to San Francisco.

California Central Coast Road Trip - 6 Days

Venture up the Pacific Coast Highway and take in the incredible ocean views on this road trip through California's central coast. Starting in Los Angeles, you'll explore the beach town of Santa Barbara and its charming neighbors, sip on a glass of red in California's wine region, and discover famed lookout points along Big Sur.

Northern California Road Trip: Volcanoes, Lakes and Waterfalls - 7 Days

This multi-day adventure takes you to some of the natural highlights of Northern California, featuring sparkling lakes, wondrous waterfalls, and the weird and exquisite landscapes left behind by volcanoes. After hiking up awe-inspiring mountain peaks and swimming in sun-warmed lakes, you'll make your way to the famous Napa Valley for some wine tasting before returning to San Francisco.

Northern California Road Trip: Waterfalls, Volcanoes, and the Coast - 9 Days

This multi-day adventure takes you through the mist-shrouded Northern California coast, featuring the world's tallest redwood trees and verdant fern-covered gullies. Three national parks, Redwood, Lassen Volcanic, and Whiskeytown Lake, showcase Northern California's diverse landscape and geological history. Numerous state parks, awe-inspiring mountain peaks, and wondrous waterfalls all wait to greet you along the way. Whether it's volcano, lake, or towering tree, the sheer and immense beauty of what you encounter along this journey will inspire reverence for the region.

Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon - 7 Days

No visit to the US Southwest is complete without a trip to the Grand Canyon, one of the most frequented National Parks in the country. Take in the stunning views and hike your way around the South Rim before heading to Page, Arizona to admire the picturesque canyon walls of Antelope Canyon and lookout point of Horseshoe Bend. Bookend your trip with nights in Las Vegas, visiting the Red Rock Canyon National Reserve and getting a peek at the famous nightlife.

Joshua Tree, Death Valley, and Red Rock Canyon - 7 Days

Sojourn to the California and Nevada desert landscapes, best enjoyed in spring, winter and fall. Travel back in time to the Old West with a visit to Pioneertown, and hike through the aptly named Joshua Tree National Park to see its incredible desert fauna and rock formations. Climb the desert dunes of the Mojave Natural Preserve and peer out the window of your car to enjoy vast desert landscapes. Immerse yourself in the extreme and unique beauty of Death Valley before discovering the colorful Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas.

California and Oregon Road Trip: Waterfalls, Volcanoes, and the Coast - 12 Days

This multi-day adventure takes you through the mist-shrouded Northern California coast, featuring the world's tallest redwood trees and verdant fern-covered gullies. Three national parks, Redwood, Lassen Volcanic, and Crater Lake, showcase this area's diverse landscape and geological history. Numerous state parks, awe-inspiring mountain peaks, and wondrous waterfalls all wait to greet you along the way. Whether it's a volcano, lake, or towering tree, the sheer and immense beauty of what you encounter along this journey will inspire reverence for the region.

Wachusett Mountain Hike & Brewery

Spend a morning hiking the trails around Wachusett Mountain, which offers great views over central Massachusetts from the peak of Wachusett Mountain. Recharge and relax the afternoon away at nearby Wachusett Brewery, enjoying a flight of local brews, good food, and often live music in the outdoor setting.

Day Bike Ride to Chappaquiddick (Martha's Vineyard)

Leave the car behind and set out along flat bike paths along the coastline as you ride from Oak Bluffs to remote Chappaquiddick Island ("Chappy"). Relax on the windswept beaches on the small island made famous by the Kennedys. The total ride is about 18 miles (9 miles each way), with a very short bike ferry to cross the water.

Hike along Franconia Ridge in the White Mountains

The Best of Franconia Notch, White Mountains - 3 Days

The White Mountains in northern New Hampshire is New England's top hiking destination, easily accessed from the Boston area (only 2 hours away). Hikes in this region are steep, but rewarding with gorgeous views of the wilderness. Introduce yourselves to "The Whites" with a shorter hike along the Welch-Dickie Loop, which offers great views for (relatively) minimal efforts. On your other days, climb to either side of Franconia Notch to hike along the ridgelines. Spend your evenings back in Lincoln or North Woodstock enjoying great local food and beer. You could also consider camping in the Notch or a bit further east in the heart of the Whites.This trip can also be easily extended with a few more days by exploring Pinkham notch to the east (home to Mount Washington).

Long Weekend Trips in Southern California - 4 Unique Ideas

From long stretches of sandy coastlines to sprawling desert landscapes, Southern California has so much to explore for those seeking a weekend getaway. Sip wine amongst the vineyards of Temecula, soak up the sun in Santa Barbara, travel back to the Old West in Joshua Tree, or head down to Baja California's up-and-coming wine country.

Top Day Trips in Southern California

Outside of the expansive metropolis of Los Angeles, there is plenty to see and do in Southern California. From sunny beaches to quaint small towns, the natural beauty and coveted climate make this region a delight to explore. This list of day trips details some of the best options for spending a day experiencing all of what SoCal has to offer.

Joshua Tree and Death Valley Roadtrip - 5 Days

Take a trip to the interior of Southern California and its unique desert landscapes, best enjoyed in spring, winter and fall. Travel back in time to the Old West with a visit to Pioneertown and hike through the aptly named Joshua Tree National Park to see its incredible desert fauna and rock formations. Climb the desert dunes of the Mojave Natural Preserve and peer out the window of your car to enjoy vast desert landscapes. Finish up in Death Valley, immersing yourself in the unique natural beauty of this area before heading home.

Temecula Wine Getaway - 3 Days

Just a short drive away from the city of Los Angeles, Temecula offers the perfect escape for a long weekend. Nestled in a valley surrounded by sprawling vineyards and mountainous backdrops, this area offers a scenic spot to spend a few nights recharging. Explore the historic Old Town, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy the incredible natural beauty of the area.

Explore Santa Barbara - 4 Days

Along the sunny central coast of California, you'll find Santa Barbara. Known for its laidback beach town atmosphere, this city has plenty more for visitors than just sandy shorelines. From charming neighboring towns to celebrated local wine, Santa Barbara offers the perfect getaway to unwind while exploring its natural beauty.

Mendocino and Sonoma Coast Adventure - 3 Days

The rugged, isolated coastline of Northern California is perfect to explore over a long weekend. This route showcases the best of this remote feeling, yet accessible, stretch of shore, from Bodega Bay north to Mendocino. Say goodbye to cell service and hello to spectacular natural beauty and incredible modernist architecture as you explore The Sea Ranch, then make your way north via Point Arena Lighthouse to the charming village of Mendocino. Stop off for a tasting of pinot noir in the Anderson Valley as you make your way back to San Francisco.

Monterey Peninsula and Big Sur - 3 Days

Take a long weekend to experience the classics of Central California: the Monterey Peninsula and Big Sur. After a beautiful bike ride along the coast of Monterey and Pacific Grove, you'll explore the artist's colony of Carmel-by-the-Sea, get your fill of photo opportunities along the Big Sur coast, and wrap up with a relaxing outdoor spa day before heading home.

Yosemite Road Trip from the Bay Area - 3 Days

Visiting the granite paradise of Yosemite National Park is a must for any traveler. The park has some of the highest cliffs in the world, including El Capitan, featured in the 2018 documentary Free Solo. A visit to Yosemite can be as relaxed or active as you choose. You can largely stay in the comfort of your car while taking short walks at vista points, take rewarding day hikes from a home base hotel or campsite, or go on a multi-day backpacking adventure in the wilderness. No matter what style you chose, a trip to Yosemite will make lasting impressions.

Explore the beautiful coastline around Bella Coola

Great Bear Rainforest & Chilcotin Coast Road Trip - 11 Days

This itinerary is very fast-paced, designed for those who want to experience the Great Bear Rainforest and Chilcotin Plateau in a short amount of time. You'll have 2-4 hours of driving each day, with two nights in the beautiful Bella Coola Valley to unwind and recharge before taking the long ferry sailing to Vancouver Island. You'll also get a brief feel of the historical Gold Rush Trail, as you overnight in Cache Creek.

Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Banff, Radium, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 9 Days

In just 9 days, you'll drive the vast distance between Calgary and Vancouver, taking in the main highlights along the way. This specific route will have you spend two days in the Canadian Rockies before heading into the heart of the Kootenay Rockies to explore its small, historical towns. From there, finish your trip with a couple of days of enjoying the great wineries and restaurants of the Okanagan Valley before departing from Vancouver.

Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Banff, Radium, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 8 Days

This fast-paced road trip takes you from Calgary to Vancouver in 8 days. You'll pass through the dramatic landscape of the Canadian Rockies, the picturesque towns of the Kootenays, and the laid-back wine country of the Okanagan Valley. This itinerary is designed for people who don't mind driving long hours in order to cover a vast region with numerous highlights.

Cape Cod Road Trip Getaway - 7 Days

Spend a relaxing week on the Cape with this road trip getaway. Start with a few days on Martha's Vineyard to help you quickly adjust to the pace of the Cape. Relax on windswept beaches, bike along island trails, and enjoy warm evening nights. Then it's back to the mainland Cape, where you will explore the more sparsely populated areas of the Lower and Outer Cape. Hike marsh-side trails, top massive sand dunes, climb local lighthouses, and refuel at weathered roadside clam shacks.The drive is only 2 hours from Boston to Provincetown (without traffic), and you can easily split this itinerary in two as well, with a long weekend in Martha's Vineyard or a few days in the Outer Cape.

Coastal Maine Road Trip - 9 Days

This coastal road trip is the perfect way to explore the top sights and hidden coasts of Maine, aptly referred to as "Vacationland". The route is quite flexible: you'll follow the bend in the coast from Portland to Camden to Acadia, with opportunities to explore lesser-visited peninsulas along the way. You can stick to the better-known spots (Portland, Camden, Acadia) or spend some time off the beaten path with a kayak ride through a marsh south of Portland, a boat trip to Monhegan island, or a day hiking around Isle Au Haute, part of Acadia National Park.

Family Fun in Gold Country & Lake Tahoe - 5 Days

Get out into nature and soak up some history with this family-friendly itinerary. Start in Old Sacramento, where you can learn more about the Gold Rush through an underground tour with the Sacramento History Museum. Then, it's on to Lake Tahoe, nature's playground, where the options are endless. You'll mix exertion and relaxation, powering your way up Donner Peak and Mount Judah, and taking a lazy float down the Truckee River. For a more casual outdoor encounter, you'll soak up some culture under the stars with an open-air performance in Sand Harbor.

White water rafting on the American River

Gold Country, Whitewater Rafting & Lake Tahoe - 6 Days

Explore history, adventure, and nature with this itinerary highlighting California's diverse landscapes. Start in Old Sacramento, where you can learn more about the Gold Rush through an underground tour with the Sacramento History Museum before heading to the South Fork of the American River for a whitewater rafting adventure. Next, mix exertion and relaxation in Lake Tahoe, where you will power your way up Donner Peak and Mount Judah, and take a lazy float down the Truckee River.

Wine Country & Hot Springs - 3 Days

This is the ultimate indulgence weekend. Start by tasting the spectacular Napa varietals as you drive and cycle through beautiful wine country. Relax your muscles with a soak in Calistoga's geothermal hot spring pools, and stroll through its Main Street, visiting the quaint stores and cafes downtown. Savor the flavors and fresh ingredients at some top-notch wine country restaurants.Head home full of good food and good vibes.

Weekend Trip to the Keys - 2 Days

Sample island life on this weekend road trip down the Overseas Highway. In just two days, you'll have the opportunity to snorkel a living coral reef, kayak through mangroves, and feed giant tarpon. You don't need to use your vacation days to experience the Florida Keys.

Sunset at the southernmost point of the continental US

Long Weekend Trip to the Keys - 3 Days

Explore the Florida Keys and enjoy all that the tropics have to offer in a long weekend away from the hustle and bustle of Miami. Snorkel the coral reef, lounge on a white sand beach, and kayak through mangroves on this three-day road trip to Key West.

Aerial view of the Dry Tortugas National Park

Long Weekend Trip to the Keys - 4 Days

Discover the best of the Florida Keys on this four-day road-trip from Miami to Key West. You’ll drive along the scenic Overseas Highway to Key West and back, stopping along the way to snorkel, SUP, and soak up the sun.

Day Trip to the Everglades

Covering 1.5 million acres of southern Florida, the Everglades National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, from pythons to panthers. The fragile ecosystem here is protected as an International Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and at only a short driving distance from Miami, a road trip to the Everglades is a great way to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature for the day.

The turquoise waters of Garibaldi Lake near Whistler

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 6 Days

This quick adventure features two of coastal British Columbia's most popular destinations—Whistler and the Pacific Rim. Skipping Vancouver, you'll head straight to Whistler for two days of exploring the mountains, lakes, and stunning outdoor scenery. From there, it's a long day of driving and sailing over to Tofino and the Pacific Rim on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Here, follow trails through coastal rainforest and along storm-swept coastlines or simply relax in your beach-side cottage while enjoying the views. It's also the perfect place to spot whales while sea kayaking to remote islands.

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 7 Days

Follow the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to the resort town of Whistler, your base for two days of outdoor adventure. Explore nearby alpine lakes and mountains by day and enjoy great local restaurants and spas by night. After you've had your taste of the mountains, sail to Vancouver Island for two more nights along the windswept coastline around Tofino, surrounded by coastal rainforest. Finally, head to Victoria for your last night in the city.

Pick from the numerous hiking trails around Whistler

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 8 Days

Base yourself in Whistler and the Pacific Rim to get the most out of your 8 days along the coast of British Columbia. This itinerary is designed for those who love the outdoors and want to immerse themselves in two of the region's most popular destinations. In Whistler, you'll find countless hiking and biking trails along with great restaurants, breweries, and spas. In the Pacific Rim, you'll be surrounded by dense coastal rainforest and island chains only accessible by kayak and floatplane.

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 9 Days

Combine the mountains and the coast on this 9-day road trip. Starting and ending in Vancouver, you'll first head to the mountains and lakes around Whistler where you'll find countless hiking and biking trails. Then, taking the ferry over to Vancouver Island, you'll have a day on the beach before heading to the Pacific Rim, a beautifully rugged stretch of coastline that's famous for both adventure and relaxation. End your trip with a day to explore the great restaurants and neighborhoods of Victoria.

Amphitrite Point Lighthouse near Ucluelet in the Pacific Rim

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 10 Days

With 10 days, you'll have plenty of time to explore the mountains around Whistler and the rugged coastline of the Pacific Rim on Vancouver Island. Starting in Vancouver, follow the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to Squamish and Whistler where you'll base yourself for a few days. From there, take the ferry to Vancouver Island where you can hike, sea kayak, or take day adventures to remote islands and hot springs. Finally, wrap up your adventure in the provincial capital of Victoria.

Fog enveloping the rugged coastline of the Pacific Rim

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 13 Days

Visit two of the most popular destinations along coastal British Columbia—the alpine paradise around Whistler and the dramatic storm-swept coastline of Tofino and the Pacific Rim. You'll by following the iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway to Squamish and Whistler before taking the ferry to Vancouver Island. On the island, spend three days exploring the coast by foot and by kayak before visiting Victoria, British Columbia's provincial capital.

The shores of Buttle Lake, Strathcona Provincial Park

Vancouver Island Road Trip: North Island & Pacific Rim - 14 Days

Explore the diverse landscapes of Vancouver Island, where you can easily spend days hiking through the backcountry, paddling endless coastlines, or relaxing at cozy retreats next to the beach. You'll pass through prime wildlife viewing habitats and have plenty of hiking, biking, and sea kayaking opportunities. This is a great route for those looking to experience all that Vancouver Island has to offer without feeling rushed.

Orca swimming in the Johnstone Strait near Telegraph Cove

Vancouver Island Road Trip: North Island & Pacific Rim - 15 Days

This itinerary includes two of Vancouver Island's best wildlife viewing locations as well as a diverse range of landscapes—from islands to rugged mountains to coastal rainforests. You'll have ample time to explore by paddle and by foot and to relax in cozy lodges perched along the coast. Finally, end your trip in Victoria before heading back to Vancouver for your departure.

Vancouver Island Road Trip: Salt Spring & Pacific Rim - 11 Days

If you love local markets, laid-back island charm, as well as outdoor adventure, this itinerary combines the best of both worlds. First, you'll head to Salt Spring Island (imagine Matha's Vineyard meets the Pacific Coast) where you'll stay in a beautiful B&B and check out the local art galleries, orchards, and wineries. After Salt Spring, head to the Pacific Rim, a wild stretch of coastline interspersed with beaches and backed by coastal rainforest along Vancouver Island's eastern shore. Here, spend your days sea kayaking, hiking, and exploring the coastline.

Day Trip to Santa Barbara: Solvang & Los Olivos Wine Tasting

Take a full day to explore Santa Barbara and its neighboring areas. Taste fresh Danish pastries in Solvang and sip on local wine in Los Olivos. Explore the modern artistic neighborhoods of Santa Barbara and take in the views of its beautiful beaches.

Day Trip to Ojai

This day trip takes you into the small-town life of Ojai. Wander through the local mom-and-pop shops, relax at the outdoor meditation center, and end your day with a wine tasting at a local cellar.

Oak Glen Day Trip

Leave the city behind and spend the day getting a feel for the countryside. With berries in summer and apples in fall, pick some fresh produce, fill up on a home-cooked meal, and soak up the natural scenery of this peaceful setting.

Laguna Beach Day Trip

Get away from the city for the day and unwind in this quintessential SoCal town. Dip your toes in the water of its sandy beaches, marvel at the artisanal products crafted by local artists, and sip on award-winning local wines.

San Diego Day Trip

No stranger to visitors, the sunny city of San Diego has plenty to explore for locals as well. Spend the day hiking through the beautiful scenery of Torrey Pines State Reserve, unwinding with boutique shopping in Del Mar, and enjoying the misty sea breeze at La Jolla Cove.

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