The coolest thing about visiting Bean Hollow State Beach is the rock formations. These rocks, called tafoni, are created by rock weathering processes. Salt water hits the rocks and eventually evaporates into salt. The salt is absorbed into the rock and overtime creates these little holes. The holes grow larger over time through wind, rain, and water and trap pebbles to create this unique rock.
Enjoy Heights? Visit Fremont Peak State Park
Fremont Peak State Park has a great view of Monterey and San Benito counties. Leaving the highway, the road begins to get windy and narrow, with sharp turns and elevation gain. I’d recommend small cars, but trucks and minivans can definitely pass. The park is not very crowded so finding parking should not be an issue.
World’s Largest Chili Pepper
Like most road trippers, I stop at weird attractions. The bigger the better. There’s a lot of love for chili peppers here because it is used in New Mexican cuisine. Stop by the Big Chile Inn in Las Lunas, New Mexico to show your love for this spicy fruit.
Sugar Rush at the Jelly Belly Factory Tour
Do you love candy? If yes, this is the place for you. The tour is free! The samples are free! The self guided tour only takes about 30 minutes if you read the displays and watch the videos. On weekdays you’ll see workers and jelly bean production, but on the weekends, jelly beans are not being made.
Off the Beaten Path to Steelhead Falls
Want a waterfall to yourself in Oregon? Take the trail to Steelhead Falls. Just a short hike for a big payoff.
The Most Gorgeous Waterfall in California: McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is my favorite waterfall in all of California. Take the Falls Loop Trail where you will cross over the Rainbow Footbridge to see Burney Falls, a sight that will make your jaw drop. The location is very easy to visit and the large waterfall is rarely ever dry.
The Life of Buddha: Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple
In 1982, Cambodian refugees bought land to create Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple and to preserve their culture. Through funding and donations from the community, they constructed a temple for monks and numerous colored sculptures that depict Buddha’s life and experiences. During April, the temple hosts its free annual New Year’s event with dancing, food, and music.
Huy Fong Foods Sriracha Factory Tour
Learn why Sriracha is the #1 chili sauce in America through a free tour. David Tran the CEO/founder of this sauce was a refugee from Vietnam. He named his product after the boat that took him to US. His recipe chili sauce was influenced by a town in Thailand called Sri Racha.
Rolling Green Hills at Dry Creek Regional Park
If you’re a Bay Area local, this is a great spot to do some hiking. This area is part of the East Bay Regional Parks system and easily accessed through Mission Blvd. Green hills in the spring and yellow hills in the summer/fall like most other parks, Dry Creek features a beautiful skyline of the Hayward/Union City area.
Good Grief, Charlie Brown! Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center
Calling out all the Peanuts fans or anyone passing by Sonoma county to stop by this museum. Great for kids and adults there are many photo ops with your favorite cartoon characters.