Castro Valley, California

Ridge to Bridge is an annual fundraiser for the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council, a non-profit organization whose mission it is to create a continuous 550+ mile trail for hikers, mountain bicyclists, and equestrians along the ridgelines overlooking San Francisco Bay. Ridge to Bridge, which typica...

Summertime is beach time, as far as we're concerned, and here in San Francisco, we think we're pretty lucky to have the beaches of Marin County in our backyard. But don't think you have to live here to enjoy these...they are absolutely worth traveling for. Marin County's wild shoreline is full of...

As a northern latitude dweller, there comes a time each winter where I long to feel the sun on my bare arms and stretch out my legs on a seaside trail. One of my favorite places to escape the chilly doldrums is Marin County, a destination so close to San Francisco that you can practically taste t...

California's Marin County is edged in by water on three sides, from the wild coastline of Point Reyes National Seashore to the protected waters of the San Pablo Bay. Just minutes from San Francisco, Marin County is the perfect destination for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. So grab your...

We can’t get enough of Santa Cruz — this mellow beach town has everything you need to make for a jam-packed weekend of outdoor adventure. There’s killer surf — for beginners and experts alike — memorable hikes, mountain bike trails, and oh yeah, a glut of microbreweries where you can reward your ...

There's nothing like a great meal after a day of exploration, am I right? Something about being out in nature makes the food taste richer, the beers more refreshing, and calling for seconds on dessert less embarrassing. Or maybe it's just me on that last one. Santa Cruz, on California's Central C...

From coastal campgrounds to elegant digs surrounded by towering redwoods, this laid-back central California city has it all. Dreaming of life on the coast? This spring, Visit Santa Cruz County is giving away a two night, three day stay in Santa Cruz. The winner will receive a stay in a two-bedroo...

Sunny beaches, trails winding through old-growth forests, refreshing rivers, and picturesque coastline — Santa Cruz has it all. Whether you’re into adventures on land or on the sea, this hip city on California’s central coast delivers. Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: Year-round Weather: Average t...

1. Sea Lions at the Santa Cruz Wharf The California sea lion population has tripled in the past 40 years, and the Santa Cruz Wharf, built in 1914, is a common resting spot for these gorgeous pinnipeds. Park anywhere on the wharf (first 30 minutes are free, then there's a small fee) then walk out...