Head to Southern California for some thrill and adventure this summer

Rannvijay Singha and brother Harman Singha explore Southern California and share their top outdoor adventures.

Southern California’s beautiful weather, amazing beaches and plenty of adventure activities place it high on a thrill-seeker’s action bucket list. This makes it a favourite year-round vacation destination. Taking cues from Rannvijay Singha’s recent visit to Southern California with his brother Harman, here are the finest adrenaline-packed moments from their trip:

The first stop on Rannvijay’s itinerary was Santa Monica. This beach haven takes pride in its 3.5 mile spectacular sandy stretch. The beach serves as a playground for numerous adventures. Its azure blue waters are perfect for surfing, kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, kiteboarding, wakeboarding and water skiing…the list goes on.

Rannvijay took up surfing lessons with Poseidon Paddle & Surf and learned the finer nuances of surfing. Indeed, Santa Monica’s beaches pack in so much more than just water sports. There are numerous fitness attractions lined up on the beachfront too. Rannvijay had a fun session of gymnastic pursuit at the Trapeze School here. With flying trapeze classes, trampoline and aerial silks classes, you'll be able to find the perfect flare to your vacation at the Santa Monica Pier. When you are in Santa Monica, some fabulous places to dine include Huckleberry Café & Bakery, Bru’s Wiffle, Urth Caffe, Bay Cities Italian Deli & Baker.


Rannvijay plays ‘Foot Golf’ at Desert Willow Golf Resort, Palm Springs.

The next stop on Rannvijay’s itinerary was Big Bear; a quick getaway from Santa Monica, a two hour drive brings you to the alpine haven of Big Bear. This scenic destination cuts away from the urban landscape, allowing you to enjoy the crisp mountain breeze. Located 7,000 feet in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear offers a vivid landscape in all four seasons. During summer and spring months, you can take a boat tour, rent a canoe or kayak or jet ski to experience the beauty of the Big Bear Lake. There are year-round hiking trails that transform into snowshoe trails during the heavier winter months. Rannvijay tried his hand at snowboarding and had a fabulous time in the snow during his visit here. “Will definitely come back here to do this again, hopefully with family,” he added.

Fun doesn’t stop here as just a two hour scenic drive from Big Bear is Palm Springs, which is an Oasis in the Desert. It has long been a favourite getaway amongst celebrities. Even Elvis Presley used to play golf at championship courses here and wined and dined the night away. ‘Foot Golf ’ is a new popular sport that you must try as Rannvijay recommends Foot Golf to all at the beautiful Desert Willow Golf Resort. This sport combines the best aspects of soccer and golf. Sounds fun isn’t it!

Another outstanding attraction not far from Palm Springs is the Joshua Tree National Park, where the Mojave and Lower Colorado deserts join to form the park. Take a pick from the 12 self-guiding nature trails or hike to one of the park’s five palm oases to avail a lesson to learn about the unique flora and geology of the region.

Still looking for more adventure options, then take Rannvijay’s final word for a fast-paced ride at the BMW Performance Center West at The Thermal Club. Loving every moment here, he said enthusiastically, “Straight roads are for fast cars, turns are for fast drivers.”


Rannvijay and brother Harman go on a guided sea caves kayaking tour with Everyday California in San Diego.

A fabulous 2.5 hours from Palm Springs brings you to the vibrant city of San Diego. For an ardent adventure enthusiast, a sea caves kayaking session and snorkelling adventure at La Jolla with Everyday California is sure to blow your mind away. For Rannvijay and Harman, sea caves kayaking session was an exhilarating time together. After the session, Rannvijay happily quipped, “You have got to go sea caves kayaking in San Diego.” Point taken.

San Diego also wears the title of being a perfect family getaway. There are a plethora of must-visit attractions for visitors that should be on your list too. Family attractions like SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, the USS Midway Museum, San Diego Natural History Museum are very popular.

The best of Southern California beckons. Make your summer plans.

- Wish to know more about California, log onto: œWebsite: www.visitcalifornia.in œ Facebook: @visitcaliforniaindia.