Folkloric vibes, music that moves the soul, a mosaic of colorful structures, and people that are so endearing you feel the urge to embrace strangers, have converged in the dynamic city of Havana, Cuba, making you want to settle in and stay for awhile.

As Cuba is still trying to figure out how to manage the influx of tourists from the United States, you won’t find nearly as many lodging options as you would in most other metropolises. But what Cuba lacks in traditional hotels (and don’t worry, there are still plenty of those), they make up for in a fascinating tapestry of casa particulars, which are like a mix of Airbnbs and traditional B&Bs, as the hosts often live on-site. The charm of this arrangement is that you get to take a deep dive into the culture by being the guest of locals, often having ample opportunity to ask questions and hear stories about the tangled past and present of this mysterious country.

For those wanting to first dip their toes in the culture, we’ve included numerous hotels in our guide, which provide almost all the amenities you would find in classic hotels.

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Tips + Notes

*Whenever possible, pay for your accommodations ahead of time online, as most Cuban establishments can not accept credit cards from the United States on-site.

*Keep track of your hotel charges so you know what your final bill should be. We found a few surprise charges on some hotel bills, which were quickly removed when caught.

*In November 2018 each CUC was equivalent to about 1 USD. Check the current exchange rate before you go

*Some of these spots are super pricey, so we’ve included a more affordable option, usually in the form of a casa particular, for most of the following categories.

Best Historical Lodging: Hotel Nacional de Cuba

Hollywood icons, literary savants, mob bosses, and political heroes have been resting their keesters on the mid-century modern furniture in this national monument since it opened in 1930. As you wander the chandelier-lit halls of what is inarguably the most storied hotel in Havana, you’re met with a kaleidoscope of Art Deco, neoclassical, neocolonial Mozarb (Spanish-Christian), and Hispano-Moresque architecture – it’s a lot – but they make it work.

Although the 460-rooms are dated, the ambiance can feel more chic than shabby if you remember that you’re walking atop the same electric blue carpet the famous feet of Nat King Cole, Winston Churchill, Ernest Hemingway, Frank Sinatra, Eva Gardner, Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell all trod upon. And if you’re a Godfather II fan, you’ll be thrilled to discover that the epic mob-kingpin-get-together scene in the movie (the one that ended in a fly-by shooting) was based on a legendary meeting of the same nature, held at Hotel Nacional in 1946 when the mob ran the scene, pre-Castro.

Enhancing the allure of these accommodations are the sweeping views of El Malecon (5 mile sea wall) and Bahia de la Habana (Havana Harbor), a large pool and fitness center and archival photos and paintings filling many of the walls. So if you’re heading to Cuba to be fully immersed in its historical aesthetic, vibrant culture and lush vistas, Hotel Nacional will be a score.

Tip: If you’re looking for something more affordable, but would like to check out this museum-like monolith, daily tours are offered to the public (with the exception of Sundays.) The pool area can also be enjoyed by non-guests for a fee, and the bars are open to all, as long as you’re dropping those (Cuban) dolla dolla bills.

Price Range: 180 CUC to 1700 CUC per night. (Be aware that the Internet is pretty expensive at $20/day, and use of the in-room safes cost $2/day.)

Food and Drink: Hotel Nacional contains four restaurants, including a luxury, buffet, Creole and cafeteria option, in addition to poolside food service. There are also four distinct bars to choose from.

Location: Middle of the Vedado neighborhood, in the center of Havana.

Bonus: The Parisién Cabaret show is presented in the hotel’s gorgeous theater for $30 per person (we advise skipping the dinner add-on.) This experience is high-energy and entertaining for all ages.

Budget Alternative: Hotel Raquel

Hotel Raquel (around $70-$100 per night) was built in 1905 and spent much of its life housing a fabric import company. This art-noveau gem is centrally located in Old Havana and features a charming sundeck with stellar views, and a massive skylight in the atrium that’s like an Art Deco wonderland of stained glass – I had a serious crick in my neck after days of staring up at it. The rooms and food aren’t anything to write home about, but we found that the price and aesthetics of the shared spaces made up for that. And they serve a mean mojito.

Best Budget Lodging: La Villa Teresa

After weeding through a seemingly endless offering of casa particulars, we landed on La Villa Teresa, a colonial-style gem located in Havana’s La Vibora neighborhood – one of the highest areas of the city. While the rooms are comfortable, the shared areas are what make it shine. With soaring, gold gilded ceilings, an abundance of crystal chandeliers, well-maintained antique furniture, eclectic tile work, and a vine-clad sunroom, featuring a piano and record player exuding the silky voices of classic Cuban singers, this home is like a hilltop paradise constantly reminding you that you’re playing in the glamorous, mystic and long-forbidden land of Cuba.

While the atmosphere is remarkable – especially for the price – the staff cinched our love for the place. Every request and question is met with genuine kindness and impeccable efficiency, and they seem intuitive to the point of anticipating your needs before you even know you have them. They also have a staff member for almost every service, including security.

We always felt safe in Havana, but if you’re concerned, La Villa Teresa offers 24-hour security and a doorman. In regards to location, the parks and architecture near the house are worth exploring, but it isn’t within walking distance to many of the most popular tourist destinations. This requires the obtainment of a car, which the staff can help you set up; or (what we recommend), hire a tour company to transport you.

Tip: Book early enough to score the Terrace Room, which offers the best views.

Price Range: $62 – $94 per night

Food and Drink: Breakfast is provided daily for a small fee. Brekkie classics are offered, such as coffee, (fresh squeezed!) juice, eggs, toast and fruit. They also have an extensive bar featuring vintage rums.

Location: La Vibora neighborhood, which is a 20-minute drive to Centro and Old Habana (where many of the tourist attractions reside.)

Bonus: The 360-degree views of the city, offered on the rooftop terrace, are some of the best in Havana. While you need to keep an eye on small children, as the balustrade isn’t too high, this is an ideal location for enviable photo ops and sun worshipping.

And they have FREE Wi-Fi!

Best Luxury Lodging: Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana

Standing at the entrance of the iconic Floridita, looking up at the glowing façade of Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana you’re drawn forward, knowing that an opulent experience awaits in the 5-star luxury hotel. Enhancing the allure are the pieces of art – framed in many of the windows – that are large enough to convey artistic mastery, but too far away to discern the subject. You have to go inside to solve the mystery.

As the name implies, these digs be fancy and exude a contemporary Parisian vibe, creating the illusion that you’ve landed in an exotic realm where Cuba and France had a hotel baby – it’s lovely. But when you reach the rooftop pool and sun deck, you suddenly feel as though you’ve landed in Hollywood, just with better views.

Keeping with their whole 5-star luxury thing is their spa that’s tricked out with eight treatment rooms, an indoor pool, a Finnish sauna, a steam bath, a cold water pool and a solarium. If you’re hoping to stay in the epitome of elegance, this is your spot.

Price Range: $630 – $1,500 per night

Food: There is food + drink to be had all over this sprawling hotel, with the Confluencias restaurant serving up an acclaimed breakfast buffet, San Cristobal Panoramic Restaurant specializing in Caribbean sea food, and the El Surtidor Pool Terrace and Bar offering casual dining.

In regards to bars, you can get your booze and tapas on at the Constante Bar (where you can groove to live music every night), the El Arsenal Lobby Lounge and Bar, and the Evocacion Tobacco Lounge where high-quality Cuban cigars and rum can be enjoyed while savoring views of Old Havana.

Location: The heart of Havana Vieja (Old Havana)

Bonus: The hotel is surrounded by UNESCO World Heritage buildings, making the area feel like a cultural playground. And let’s not forget about the free wifi (High speed! What what!) And the concierge can set you up with an airport transport, or a personalized tour in a classic tour.

Second Best Luxury Lodging: Melia Cohiba

Photo: Melia Cohiba

With a compelling blend of South Beach and Habana vibes, a modern aesthetic, supremely comfortable accommodations and endless amenities, the Melia Cohiba provides a swanky oasis for those wanting to balance their sight-seeing with lazy days by a sprawling freshwater pool, afternoon family dance parties, and well-deserved, rum-fueled naps. Complimenting the polished interior are jaw-dropping views, as the hotel is parallel to the Malecon seawall and nestled in the downtown district of El Vedado (where you’ll find top cultural attractions.)

This place also brings the fun with live Cuban music and dance shows in the Piano Bar and Habana Café party room (that’s filled with 1950’s memorabilia – including an airplane suspended from the ceiling), and ample opportunity for cigar and rum lovers to smoke and sip in the Cigar Bar.

If you’re feeling fancy, you can stay on the executive level (creatively named “The Level”) for a moderate price increase. This level offers Miami-modern suites, exclusive check-in on the 20th floor, a very eager concierge team, access to the Cobijo Real Lounge bar, strange but also kind of nice luggage unpacking and packing services, snaz views (especially from the shower), and the big finale… complimentary laundry service. Bam.

And there’s free Wi-Fi for all.

Price Range: $270 – $470

Food and Drink: The breakfast buffet at Plaza Habana is almost always spot on, and usually includes live music! There’s also La Piazza, an Italian joint so good people not staying at the hotel eat here. The hotel also offers a poolside grill and a Mediterranean-style restaurant predictably called Med.

The six bars and cafes are worth exploring, as they offer drastically varying aesthetics, from uber-contemporary to old world Cuba.

Location: Downtown district of El Vedado

Bonus: If you really want to zuhzh up your trip, request a Junior or Master suite with a Jacuzzi. Few things are lovelier than a Jacuzzi bubble bath with a side of Cuba libre and a Cubano. You haven’t lived until you’ve had a sandwich in a bathtub.

Best Pool: Memories Miramar Habana

Because kids can only stomach so much sightseeing, having an awesome pool to return to (all most kids really care about) will up your status in their eyes from a total drag to a living legend. Memories Miramar Habana will help you out in the pool arena with a multi-level swim-scape that includes a paddling pool for the littles, and a sun deck and lounge chairs for you.

When your family is thoroughly water logged, get out residual energy in one of the six tennis courts, table tennis area, squash ball court, solarium or gym. Then recharge for the next day of adventure in one of their sleek rooms offering comfortable beds, and a hot tub on the patio (if you treat yourself to a suite.)

I sometimes feel guilty chilling at the hotel when we’re in a destination that begs to be explored, but a bit of that guilt is assuaged when we’re staying at a hotel that’s an attraction in and of itself (which almost all the accommodations on this list are.) And come to think of it, many of our best vacation memories have been crafted poolside. So relax in peace my friends.

Price Range: $430 – $730 per night

Food: An extensive breakfast buffet is included. This buffet also serves dinner. There is also a restaurant serving international and Creole food, a snack bar, and two booze bars.

Location: Miramar residential neighborhood. The only downside of this location is that you need to take a 10-15 minute cab ride to get to Havana’s colonial area.

Bonus: The hospitality is top notch, with managers Laura and Ronnie making it their sole mission to make sure you enjoy your stay.

Budget Alternative: La Rosa de Ortega Bed and Breakfast (described below, as it scored its own category!)

Second Best Pool: Melia Habana

This five-star hotel is very similar to its sister you met above – Melia Cohiba – but has more of a tropical than modern atmosphere. While this fancy pants joints also has The Level, live music, a palatial lobby and posh rooms, its claim to fame is the pool, which feels like a crystal clear (critter-free) lagoon that wanders through palm trees, features a children’s area, looks out to the ocean, and offers a swim up cabana bar. When you’re ready to dry off, but still want to revel in the warm ocean breeze, a grassy area beside the pool is filled with cabana beds and lounge chairs facing the sand and sea.

Melia Habana seems to want you constantly immersed in Caribbean vibes, as most of the rooms open to a jungle-like courtyard overflowing with lush foliage, and offer balconies (off of almost every room) with sweeping views of the water. In addition, the hotel features indoor canals (and a waterfall!) you have to regularly remind the kids not to swim in.

Speaking of balconies – something that can understandably cause parents of tots to spin into a panic – the railings on these balconies feel much safer than the definitely-not-regulation railings you’ll find at many hotels in Mexico. With that said, we found it helpful to move the outdoor chairs and side table inside our room anytime an adult wasn’t sitting on the balcony (while also locking the sliding door), to prevent the kiddo from accessing any climbing aids.

In regards to the standard rooms, they’re decent, but a little dated. The Level rooms and suites are more luxe.

Price Range: $220 – $360 per night

Food and Drink: Like most hotels in Havana, Melia Habana offers a good breakfast spread. Other on-site food genres include Italian, Oriental Fusion, a grill-centric eatery, and cafeteria. There are five bars.

Location: Miramar neighborhood.

Bonus: They offer a free shuttle to Old Havana, which is a 10-15 minute ride.

Best Convenient Lodging: Iberostar Parque Central

The Spanish colonial architecture of Iberostar Parque Central mirrors the legendary structures surrounding it, including El Capitolo, Gran Teatro de La Habana and the Museum of Fine Arts. Within this acclaimed establishment, you’ll find fully updated décor that offers modern comforts, while maintaining its old world charm. Unlike many other hotels in Havana that feature stunning common areas, but have drab rooms, the Iberostar Parque Central offers contemporary and colonial rooms whose grandeur matches the rest of the hotel.

Upping the swank-factor is the palm-tree-clad rooftop pool and Jacuzzi that has unbeatable views of the capitol and ample deck chairs for soaking in the Cuban heat. When you’re ready to escape the balminess, the sun-soaked, yet air-conditioned, main lobby has an impressive bar to savor an iced mojito or Cuban coffee while your tush sinks into a plush lounge chair. Energizing the two lobbies are nightly performances by live bands.

Beyond the exercise gleaned from nightly lobby-dancing, you can keep it tight… then loose, by utilizing the hotel’s extensive fitness center, before indulging in a massage at the spa.

Tip: The hotel has a modern and colonial section, so be sure to specify which you’d prefer when you make your reservation. (Guests can use the common areas of both sections.)

Price Range: $236 to $416 per night

Food and Drink: Gastronomy – the study of the relationship between food and culture – is at the forefront of the three eateries at Iberostar Parque Central, which include a buffet, Italian restaurant and steakhouse.

Location: Center of Old Havana

Bonus: Narrow, walkable streets filled with live music, outdoor cafes and art-filled shops are a short stroll from the hotel. Start your journey with a daiquiri at El Floridita and you’ll be good to go. The kids will also be pleased to find the hotel in close proximity to Parque Central – a great space for some tag.

Budget Alternatives: Cristo 34

Photo: Cristo 34

Cristo 34 is a clean, comfortable two-bedroom Airbnb in the center of Old Havana. The host is super kind, responsive and willing to go above and beyond to make sure you have a positive experience (he’ll even help you hoof luggage up three flights of stairs!)

Best Views: Hotel Saratoga

While many of the Old Havana hotels we’ve listed have stellar views, Hotel Saratoga seems to have been specifically designed to offer guests vistas so extraordinary they experience a vivid immersion into the soul of Havana, without ever leaving their deck chair. Speaking of deck chairs, while many hotels situate their pool chairs to face the pool, Hotel Saratoga helps guests relish the views from the rooftop pool by having an entire area designed for worshipping the sun, as you simultaneously marvel at visions of El Capitolo (that is so close it seems like it’s attached to the pool) and the dynamic architecture of Old Havana.

When you pull yourself away from the exterior views, the hotel’s interior provides colonial architecture eye-candy, massive displays of colorful art, and a lot of indoor palm trees, because why not.

There is a wide range of rooms, all offering super comfortable beds, balconies and unique aesthetics with pops of color, helping differentiate them from their competitors – there isn’t anything standard about these plush havens. In fact, the experience in these 5-star quarters is so awe-inspiring living legends like Jay Z and Beyonce have called the hotel home for a few nights. So if you have the moolah, and appreciate killer views, complimented by eclectic interiors, this place will be your jam.

Tip: The cars and people on the streets surrounding the hotel can create a ruckus, but the shutters in the rooms do an excellent job of muffling the noise.

Price Range: $400 to $1,445 per night

Food and Drink: They have three restaurants, including a poolside eatery offering typical pool food, Italian-style fine dining, and a restaurant with Cuban cuisine. Their three bars include a poolside bar, Bar Mezzanine (pictured in slideshow above), and Bar Anacaona, which offers a dramatic ambiance with carved mahogany and stained glass.

Location: Heart of Old Havana. You can walk to almost all of the most popular historical sites like El Capitolo, Gran Teatro de La Habana, Central Park, and the Buena Vista Social Club.

Bonus: Bar Mezzanine is an experience in and of itself, as its massive glass-topped atrium with soaring murals, checkered floors, and glamorous vibes makes you feel as though you’ve landed in a 1930s mobster flick. AND, breakfast and wifi is free.

Budget Alternative: See La Villa Teresa above – the affordable views are everything.

Best Big Group Lodging: La Rosa de Ortega Bed and Breakfast

This 1938 mansion is ideal for large groups, as it features ten bathrooms and baths, and a wonderland of common areas, such as an Old Hollywood-esque pool area, a large indoor Jacuzzi, overflowing gardens, a covered pavilion for al fresco dining, and a foliage-rich sunroom. As the house sits on one of the highest hills in Havana, it also offers spectacular panoramas of the city, with an especially impressive view of the famous Villa de San Cristóbal de la Habana.

As La Rosa de Ortega Bed and Breakfast is family owned and operated, these accommodations exude a warm and welcoming energy, making you feel as though you’re guests of a friend who scored one of the most charming homes in Havana. With exposed brick, high ceilings, delicate curtains that offer the “billowing in the breeze” feature, bright, eclectic tile work, furniture that takes you back to the 40’s and 50’s, and a much appreciated dedication to cleanliness, this B&B is a must try Havana jewel.

Tip: There’s no on-site wifi, but if you need your fix, the staff can direct you to a nearby “wifi park.” Wifi parks, a park with free wifi, are a quirky feature of Cuba where you’ll find hoards of people silently hunched over phones.

Price Range: $60 – $160 per night, depending on room selection

Food: They offer a nice breakfast spread (lots of fresh fruit and good coffee) for around $7 per person, and a reasonable lunch that’s a good option for sandwich lovers. Snacks and drinks can also be ordered throughout the day. If you want to eat out, the staff can recommend good restaurants within walking distance.

Location: This B&B is located in the La Vibora neighborhood, which offers a quiet and safe environment. It takes about 15-minutes to get into Old Havana by car (costs about $10 via taxi.)

Bonus: They can organize massages.

Best Modern Lodging: Paseo 206 Boutique Hotel

Industrial chic lighting, lots of white, and contemporary furniture offering splashes of color converge at Paseo 206 Boutique Hotel, creating the ideal oasis for those with an affinity for modern accommodations. And yet, these boutique digs are rare in that they’ve accomplished the tricky feat of modernizing the space, while maintaining its original 1933 soul.

The ten suites in this hotel are not just aesthetically gorgeous with Cuban artwork and Italian custom made furniture (depending on your room), but are also drenched in comfort with hypoallergenic king size beds and Frette linens. One of the greatest joys of this spot is that it doubles as an art gallery, displaying ever-changing collections of work from new talent, to acclaimed contemporary Cuban artists.

Price Range: $220 – $550 per night

Food: The Italian owners of Paseo 206 have created the on-site restaurant Eclectico, which serves quality Italian fare, infused with Caribbean flare, all day (breakfast is complimentary.) Don’t skip the artisanal gelato and homemade pasta (our favorite is the pumpkin ravioli.)

Location: It’s a short walk to the Malecon and Plaza de la Revolucion (a few blocks in either direction), and a 5-7 minute taxi ride to Old Havana – a ride that typically costs less than $10.

Bonus: This hotel is a one-stop-shop with free wifi, room service, laundry services, mini bar, tiny Hermes toiletries (that cheapos like us live for), spa, restaurant, airport transport and pet-friendly rooms.

Budget Alternative: Magical B & B by the Sea Havana

The snow white private room at Magical B & B by the Sea Havana (about $85 per night) is like a modern retreat floating above the water, as it’s located along the sea wall. The bummer here is that they only allow two guests (they make an exception for babies.) With that said, if you only have one kiddo, and they’re small enough to share a bed with you, we recommend messaging the hosts to see if they’ll make an allowance.

The post Best Hotels + Casa Particulars in Havana, Cuba appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

Our first foray into the rugged, biodiverse land of Costa Rica was made so much sweeter by the obstacles we had the pleasure of managing: a steep learning curve with the language, a faulty navigation system… a baby. Here’s how we fumbled our way through a vacation that ended up being one of our most transformative, and life-affirming adventures.

Car Rental Mayhem

The essence of perfectly seasoned Gallo Pinto, tiny monkeys, alcohol-filled coconuts, and salt-soaked humidity washed over me as I stepped out of the airport. We had arrived, and survived over twelve hours of cars, faulty airport shuttles, and airplanes. First step of international travel with baby complete, and I only kind of looked like a sleep-deprived lunatic with bloodshot eyes and dried spit up on my crotch.

Because we’re Millennials, our first stop was a Kolbi kiosk where we bought an excessive amount of minutes for an unlocked cell phone, because we obviously have to be connected to social media as we disconnected in paradise. And, we really really needed GPS because Millennials can’t read maps, and Costa Rica has an aversion to road signs… and road names.

Life was good, traveling was easy, and nothing could go wrong…. Then, all hell broke loose when we tried to pick up our rental car.

Word to the wise: Costa Rican car rental companies are infamous for squeezing hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of dinero out of you for excessive “car insurance,” that is more like an expensive waiver.

We had already paid $100 for the basic insurance recommended by the website where we reserved our car. But the desk agent in Costa Rica assured us we also needed additional insurance that was $100 PER DAY. An additional $1,000 on top of the $1,000 we were already paying for car. Um, no thank you.

Here’s what we learned after three hours, some raised voices, lots of tears, and a tip from a well-informed fellow traveler, who was actually an angel disguised as a tatted-up man in a Hawaiian shirt.

Tip: Many credit card companies provide primary coverage for rental cars. To ensure you’re covered, call the number on the back of your credit card before you depart to get the details on how much coverage they’ll provide. And, know that they rarely cover camper vans and other such large vehicles.

A call to Visa confirmed we were covered, and could kindly tell the car rental agent to shove his insurance…

With our crisis averted, we set off for Dominical, no longer worried that we’d have to buy the car if it received so much as a scratch.

Getting Lost in a Megasuper

As food costs in the more remote areas of Costa Rica can be shockingly high, we decided to stock up in San Jose’s aptly named Megasuper grocery store. We learned a lot during that shopping trip…

Tip #1 – If you don’t speak Spanish, get a good translator app or an old school English-Spanish dictionary for your shopping endeavors. I ended up getting fabric softener that was supposed to be laundry detergent, body wash that was supposed to be conditioner, and condoms that were supposed to be band-aids. Yup.

Tip #2 – Make a, “If we get separated, meet here” plan. I got lost. Like really lost. I peeled off from the group to find some Metamucil (because y’all, no one wants vacation constipation), and it took me thirty minutes to find my people. I even started yelling their names, and attracted lots of stares. As we only had one phone with minutes, I couldn’t call them. My rescue beacon came when, somewhere in the store, my husband told our son he wouldn’t buy him the three gallon vat of strawberry ice cream and he started wailing.

Crocodile Infested Waters

Stocked up on beer, eggs, floating toys, and other essentials, we wound our way through the mostly uninhabited Costa Rican countryside, eyes peeled for monkeys, or other brag-worthy tropical creatures.

We were committed to not stopping until we reached our initial destination of Dominical, until we drove across a bridge that had about twenty tourists leaning over the side and pointing.

Being the good tourists that we are, we joined the others and looked down. I immediately wished my baby, wiggling on my hip, was securely fastened to my chest – or better yet, back in the womb. There were at least 40 massive crocodiles lounging on the sandy river banks below. The guardrail only went up to my waist.

A local informed us that chickens (hopefully dead ones) were regularly dropped off the bridge, ensuring the crocs never migrated.

Location of the creatively named “Crocodile Bridge”: You’ll find this haunting/very cool (and free!) attraction on route 34, where it crosses Tarcoles River.

Arriving in the Boho Beach Town of Dominical

Driving into laid-back Dominical, passing haphazard collections of palm trees, colorful vendors, and smiling, tan, shoeless people, allowed us to finally settle into vacation mode. We bee-lined it for the beach, and caught one of the the most glorious sunsets I’ve ever seen – the type of sunset that makes you believe in something greater. The long, wave-soaked beach was glowing with the bright pink light weaving through wisps of crisp white clouds. And I know it’s cheesy, but the sunset didn’t take my breath away, it gave me my breath back. For real.

Holistic Health Tip: If you never considered yourself a “spiritual type,” the Dominical sunsets might just convert you. To fully absorb the magic energy of the moment, make sure your children aren’t in eminent danger, close your eyes, soak in the serenity, and maybe even say a little prayer of gratitude to the Universe, God, Buddha, Santa Claus, or whoever/whatever it is that you resonate with.

Before continuing on to the Osa Peninsula, we spent some time enjoying Dominical. Click here to learn how to get the most out of this “chill vibes only” town, while entertaining little people who are wholly incapable of chillin’.

Click here for part two of our Costa Rican Travel Journal.

The post Travel Journal: Costa Rica Part One appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

June Lake, California is the type of place that makes you feel like you’re privy to a secret frosty wonderland most travelers miss. Part of its unrecognized and underutilized nature is connected to lack of accommodations and eatery options. But that’s changing. The town is going through a renaissance.

A spirited group of locals, and folks-in-the-know who flocked to June with a desire to see it revived, are creating a town that offers restaurants with attention to deliciousness and quality, boutique accommodations, and venues for world-class live music, weddings, and conferences.

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One thing they don’t have to tinker with (much) is the family-friendly June Mountain – the area’s ski area that’s rarely crowded, and has a maze of groomed runs that can entertain any level of skier or snowboarder for days. It’s how we found June Lake.

Oh, and they also don’t have to worry about gussying up the surroundings. I’ll be so bold as to say it’s encircled by some of the most extraordinary sight you’ll ever see, even when compared to nearby Mammoth Mountain.

June Lake’s dynamic combo of authentic, laid-back vibes, a revival of its adorable downtown area, views that seem more like a painting than reality, and slopes that were made for families, has made it our go-to destination when we’re craving a cozy mountain getaway. We’ve celebrated many holidays and birthdays in the rustic cabins scattered around the edges of town.

To get a better taste for the past, present and future of June Lake, I met with local Jamie Schectman, who’s a member of the June Lake Chamber of Commerce, and owner of the Balanced Rock Saloon. Jamie is like a June Lake encyclopedia, and offered up trivia that provided a more well rounded view of my favorite secret-turning-not-so-secret Cali locale.

• June Lake had its hey day in the 60s and 70s when celebrities would escape LA to recharge on June Mountain’s slopes.

• Kids under 12 ski free at June Mountain!

• Adult lift tickets are significantly cheaper at June Mountain than at Mammoth.

• Popular new businesses include a pizzeria, juice bar, music and event venue, and cannabis shop.

• Locals don’t want June Lake to become an Aspen or Vail. They’re committed to maintaining the no-fuss, small-town vibes.

• The June Lake Loop is 96% public land, essentially eliminating the risk of it turning into a commercialized, over-populated resort town.

• The classic spot for a burger, the Tiger Bar, has been alive and kicking since 1932.

• As it’s only 35-minutes from the east entrance of Yosemite, June Lake is a popular resting spot for those exploring this acclaimed national park.

• The T-Bar Social Club (fashioned after Chicago speakeasies) pulls in Grammy award winners, and other big acts that typically play in massive venues. As June Lake is on the route between many major cities, it’s easier for them to convince these performers to make a pit stop.

• Come summer 2021, the Balanced Rock Saloon will be one of the most coveted event spaces in the area, as it’s being remodeled to accommodate over 300 people, and will feature a large, upscale bar, stage with a mezzanine sky walk above it, catering kitchen, massive deck with amazing views, and a bridal suite.

• It’s in the works for June Mountain to get a new and improved ski lift to transport guests from the parking area to the lodge, and the base of many of the slopes. As the current glacial double lift is one of the only downsides of June Mountain, this would be a big win.

• Accommodation options like Yosemite Gateway Chalet, Double Eagle Lodge, and Victory Lodge provide high quality lodging.

• In the summer, activities like hiking Red’s Meadow to Rainbow Falls Overlook or Devil’s Postpile, paddle boarding or kayaking on June Lake, picnicking at June Lake Beach, water skiing on Grant Lake, and exploring Mono Lake are popular options.

• During the summer, there are over 600 campsites available for use on the June Lake Loop.

The post Why June Lake Needs To Be On Your Mountain Town Bucket List appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

Unlocking the magic of imagination and allowing your creativity to play is one of the most enchanting feelings, yet can sometimes feel like an elusive feat. While there’s no magic elixir for creativity, and everyone has a unique recipe for conjuring that inner muse, there are certain destinations with that special juju, which serves as a catalyst for the outpouring of your most wild and wonderful ideas.

Bali is one such place; with its sacred structures, balmy waters and otherworldly vistas it’s near impossible to explore this majestic land without inspiration striking. While the totality of Bali is a creativity-conjurer, there are five super-potent locations, sure to have you saying endless ah-has.

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Tenganan

To witness the beauty that can be birthed from an idea, travel to the small village of Tenganan in southeast Bali. The locals here are pros at double ikat weaving, which is a process that ends in the creation of one of Bali’s most extraordinary textiles.

If you tread softly and respectfully through the village, you just might luck out and have a local adopt you for the day, taking you on an unofficial tour that may even include a peek into the workspace of an expert weaver. After you soak in the innovation of the village, find a private space to journal, sketch or commune with your creative medium of choice.

Ubud

The tapestry of lush jungle in Ubud, known by many as the “spiritual center of Bali,” creates a cozy haven where you’ll feel safe to explore new ideas without the pressure of immediately putting them into action. This is a place of creative marination.

To begin the marinating, allow this green cocoon to be your sanctuary of mental excavation – a place where you feel safe to dig into the recesses of your mind, weed out the junk that needs to go, discover your latent brilliance and encourage it to come up and breathe. Villa Pererepan is a prime spot for this process.

Gianyar

Watching the graceful, thoughtful and primal manner of animals can shake up your perceptions, and offer inspiration for how to settle into a more simple style of living – a style that creates more space for creativity.

Immerse yourself in a society of animals by staying at the Mara River Safari Lodge where you can float in a pool while observing the interactions of zebras, feed an elephant from your balcony, or lay in bed gazing at a family of rhinos enjoying their breakfast.

Seminyak

While calling on the goodies of your creativity is spiritually arousing, it can also be draining. So much so that you may need a dip in luxury – or maybe just a bean bag chair – to recharge.

Seminyak offers many luxury hotels and spas that will pamper you for a reasonable fee. If you’d like your pampering delivered via sea, sand and sky, plop into one of the many colorful bean bag chairs at La Plancha, a beach bar and restaurant offering Spanish food, quality cocktails and sunsets pulled from the heavens.

Canggu

When your ideas, ingenuity, confidence and other yummy elements of yourself are ready to play with others, travel to Canggu, as this hipster oasis offers the chance to connect with other Creatives.

It’s not uncommon to witness folks who seem equally Zen and amped weaving ideas together while noshing on something organic on the beach, discovering how to collaborate on a project while injecting caffeine into their minds at Hungry Bird, and taking a break from all that thinking to have a dance party at Old Man’s. You can be one of those people. We have a friend who landed a major book deal through someone she struck up a conversation with at a yoga class in Canggu.

If your creative urges are now filling you with wanderlust, invest in your whole-being wellbeing by saying yes to an adventure in one of Bali’s wellsprings of inspiration.

The post 5 Bali Paradises That Awaken Creativity appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

While you can certainly find ample health food, a la Southern Cali, in Australia, the biggest culinary scores come in the form of rich dishes that make you forget about the state of your waistband. We believe a big element in the delish-factor of these foods is that many of them are handmade, instead of factory-made, filled with ingredients that are high-quality and locally sourced. Maybe that’s why we didn’t feel like total crap after downing a family-sized mound of fish and chips.

However, just like any popular dish, it’s not created equal in every eatery, which is why we highly recommend doing an online search for the best spot to nosh on a particular food in whatever Aussie locale you’re exploring. And for the areas we’ve already performed reconnaissance in, we’ve filled you in below on where to go.

Health Tip: To make sure your Australian adventure isn’t devoid of nutrients, eat a side salad with many of the following dishes, and balance out your restaurant selections by occasionally grabbing a meal at one of the many health-conscious cafes or markets sprinkled throughout the coastal cities.

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1. Fish and Chips

While fish n’ chips found in many restaurants in the US are pretty heavy on the batter and grease, Australian fish and chips joints have perfected the art of selecting thick, super-fresh, flaky and non-fishy assortments of fish they cover in a moderate amount of optimally-seasoned crumbs or batter (we prefer the crumbed fish) and fry for just enough time to get the fish crispy, but not swimming in grease. The fish is served on a bed of thick, salty chips (aka fries), with a side of (often housemade) tomato and tartar sauces. In addition, some eateries sprinkle health in there by adding roasted corn and greens.

Tip: Amp up the deliciousness by seasoning your fare with chicken salt.

Best fish and chips in Brisbane’s Scarborough neighborhood: The Boat Shed

Best fish and chips in New South Wales: Pelican Rock Café at Greenwell Point

2. Meat Pies

Originating from economically-strapped Englishmen and women (many of whom were later relocated to Australia) who could get the ingredients for pie crust cheap, and wanted something to do with scraps from their wealthy employers’ elaborate parties, meat pies are now an Australian staple, regardless of the status of one’s bank account.

These savory treats are often single-serving and have a variety of ingredients ranging from beef and onion or mushroom, pepper steak beef, or chicken curry, to breakfast staples, or heaps of veggies. These ingredients are often mixed with water, bouillon cubes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, oregano and nutmeg to make a gravy-like filling. While the filling is primo, our favorite part of a meat pie is the combination of the flaky, crunchy top, and a denser, buttery base, which makes it easy-ish to hold in one hand. To score freshies, hit a local bakery first thing in the morning. And to round out the goodness, top your pie with tomato sauce.

Best meat pies in Queensland: Yatala Meat Pies and Byron Bay Meat Pies

3. Sausage Rolls

The same puff pastry that goes over the top of a meat pie is used to wrap up ground, deliciously-seasoned sausage that results in a sausage roll. The sausage is sometimes cooked with finely chopped onions, celery, carrots, garlic, and other fresh additions to create a full-flavored culinary experience. Much like the meat-pie, this is a heavy option, so if you’re planning on some surfing, hiking or another active pastime, save this bakery selection for after.

Tip: Don’t forget the tomato sauce.

Best sausage rolls in Sydney: Bourke Street Bakery

4. Chicken Parmy at a Pub

While most wouldn’t associate Australia with Chicken Parmigianino, this is a go-to food for many pubs, so much so that many have nights dedicated to this dish. Essentially, this meal is composed of a piece of wide and thin chicken coated in breadcrumbs and fried, then topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. In addition, this is often served atop chips and a salad. And you should probably tack on a Pirate Life IPA.

Best pub to buy Chicken Parmy in Brisbane: Brisbane Brewing Co.

5. Lamb Kebab

While Eric is OBSESSED with lamb, as it’s a common special-occasion dish in Aus, Bailey’s not a fan. However, the paper thin slices of lamb cut off a spit roast for a kebab has won her over. To craft the kebab, the meat is usually wrapped in flat bread with tabouli, tahini, mint sauce, lettuce, cucumbers, tomato and other optional condiments. While you can find kebabs in many restaurants, they’re most commonly purchased from street vendors, especially post-bar at 3am.

Best place to buy Lamb Kebabs in Melbourne: Lambs on Malvern and Glenny Kebabs

6. Australian Breakfast Sandwich

The ingredients of eggs, bacon, cheese, avocado, tomato and BBQ sauce on Ciabatta bread doesn’t sound much different than a breakfast sandwich found in other parts of the world, but here’s why they’re special in Australia… First off, the bread – almost anywhere you go the Ciabatta bread they use for a brekky sandwich has a thin crunchy layer on the outside, and is just the right amount of soft and fluffy on the inside – it’s not at all like the rubbery, hard-to-chew-through Ciabatta we’ve tried in other countries.

In addition, the eggs and cheese are usually super higher quality (not factory cheese wrapped in thin plastic), and the bacon is thick, crunchy and uber-meaty. And then there’s the BBQ sauce, which Aussies will put on just about anything.

Best place to buy a Brekky Sandwich in Sydney: Luxe Espresso or Salt Meats Cheese

7. Aussie Burger

Angus beef patty, beet root, fried egg, bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato and BBQ or tomato sauce combine to make this Aussie staple. The primary features that differentiate this from a standard burger – the beet root, super thick slices of bacon and fried egg – add a dynamic flair of flavor to this tried and true favorite. In addition, the tomato sauce is a bit less sweet than ketchup and actually tastes like it was made with quality tomatoes. Aussies don’t mess around with their sauces. Be sure to pair your burger with chips sprinkled with Chicken Salt, and a Bundaberg Ginger Beer.

Best place to order an Aussie Burger in Cairns/ Most Cities in Aus: Cairns Burger Café and Grill’d (a must-try chain throughout Australia – order a Beyond Burger!)

8. Open-faced Vegemite + Avo Toast

You can’t go to Australia without trying some Vegemite, mate. For real. This savory spread, primarily composed of brewer’s yeast, is as common as honey, tomato sauce, butter and other staples in Australian kitchens. It gained its name after it was drawn from a hat during a national naming competition.

Unfortunately, many travelers who aren’t in the know hold the misconception that Vegemite is akin to Nutella and spread a thick layer onto toast, only to gag and rinse out their mouth after their first bite. Vegemite is meant to be spread incredibly sparingly on a piece of toast that has been buttered before Vegemited. And to really make it Aussie smash avocado on top, with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. If you follow this recipe you’ll score a delicious piece of savory Australian toast that is buttery, creamy, a tad spicy and a little salty.

As this spread is high in vitamin B, Bailey used it each day of her pregnancy with Hudson to tasty up her toast and quell morning sickness.

Best place to get Vegemite: Every store and kitchen in Australia.

9. Pavlova

When covered with fresh whipped cream, passion fruit pulp, strawberries and kiwis, this fluffy meringue cake creates a dessert so light and delicious Kiwis and Australians will perpetually be dueling over where it originated. This yumminess can be found at most supermarkets (minus the toppings), and bakeries.

Best pavlova in Sydney: Ester

Best pavlova in Brisbane: Chester Street Bakery & Bar

10. Lamingtons

Another food claimed by both Australians and Kiwis, this sponge cake dipped in chocolate frosting and rolled in coconut is delicious, regardless of what country you’re eating it in. As we’re partial to Australia, we tend to believe the folklore that it was named after Queensland’s Lord Lamington, after he tried it and loved it so much his ego demanded it be named after him.

Best place to buy Lamingtons in Sydney: Luscious Kikis

Best place to buy Lamingtons in Melbourne: Candied Bakery

11. Anzac Biscuits

Not to be confused with the baked good eaten under a pool of gravy in Southern USA, these wafer-like biscuits (aka cookies), primarily composed of rolled oats and golden syrup, are eaten to commemorate Anzac Day. This day, April 25, marks the anniversary of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landing in Gallipoli during the First World War, where many lost their lives. Beyond the honoring of lives lost during that battle, Anzac Day commemorates all Australian and New Zealand service men and women. So Anzac biscuits are one of the few foods that actually bring New Zealanders and Aussies together.

Best place to buy Anzac Biscuits in Sydney: Flour and Stone and Saga

Best Anzac Biscuits you can order online: Phillippa’s Bakery

12. Grilled Halloumi Cheese

While it didn’t originate in Australia, halloumi cheese is one of the country’s favorite things to throw on the barby. This semi-hard, unripened, brined cheese is usually made from a mixture of goat and sheep milk, and has a high-melting point, allowing it to get golden brown when grilled for a bit. It has a salty taste and goes well with both savory and sweet foods (try it with watermelon.)

Best place for halloumi cheese dishes in Brisbane: Corner Store Café and Hoo Ha Bar

13. Violet Crumble

This classic Australian candy bar is composed of chocolate covered honeycomb that shatters in the most wonderful way when you bite into it. While it’s an amazing treat on its own, we like to crumble it over chocolate ice cream.

Best place to buy a Violet Crumble: IGA markets usually carry them.

14. Flat White with Tim Tams

Yet another “We came up with it!… No we came up with it!” dispute between Australia and New Zealand, this hot drink is composed of a double shot of espresso with a bit of sugar for taste and carefully steamed whole milk that creates a thin layer of velvety micro-froth on top – the entire drink is creamy and just a tad foamy. It’s lovely. While they offer these in many American cafés, no one makes them like the Aussies. Bailey used to scoff at Eric’s coffee-snobbishness, but after tasting the barista skills of Australia, she’s now a believer in the art of caffeine, especially if that caffeine is in a Flat White.

Adding to the flavor power of a Flat White is one of Australia’s favorite store-bought biscuits – Tim Tams. These are composed of two chocolate biscuits sandwiched around chocolate cream filling and then coated in… you guessed it, chocolate. Dip it in that Flat White for about three seconds and let the delightfulness commence.

Best place to buy a Flat White in Sydney: Gumption or Regiment

Best place to buy a Flat White in Melbourne: Seven Seeds or Pope Joan

15. Bundaberg Ginger Beer

One of the best non-alchy drinks to be found down under, Bundaberg Ginger Beer is a sweet and ginger-spicy drink made with ground, dried ginger root and Queensland Cane Sugar. The drink is fermented and craft-filtered, then diluted with water, sugar and citric acid. This brewed ginger deliciousness is a go-to accompaniment for fish and chips, meat pies, and well, pretty much everything.

Because of the tummy-soothing effects of ginger, Bundaberg is a good drink to have on hand for car-sickies on a road trip, or sea-sickies on a boat to the Great Barrier Reef.

Best place to find Bundaberg Ginger Beer: Almost anywhere drinks are sold in Aus.

16. Eat Street

One of the many photo ops at Eat Street

While this isn’t one dish, it is a must-try wonderland of yumminess from almost every corner of the world. Located at a former container wharf, Eat Street is a mini-city of 70+ food-truck-esque eateries located within colorful shipping containers and serving up some of the most decadent, flavorful and affordable(ish) food you’ll ever find. There’s also ample places to get buzzed on craft booze.

Amping up this epic food + drink experience are the three stages spread throughout Eat Street featuring a wide array of crazy talented musicians, dancers, and comedians. In addition, the aesthetic is an Instagramer’s dream with its light displays and over the top decor – and of course there’s twinkle lights, lots of twinkle lights. So if you’ll be in Brisbane on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, this should be what you’re doing.

Tip: To avoid mega-crowds, arrive close to opening, which is 4pm Friday and Saturday, and noon on Sunday.

The post 15 Australian Foods + Drinks You Have to Try appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

Do you prefer small town vibes to the ambiance of a trendy ski resort? Would you rather post up in a cozy cabin than book a room in a chic hotel? If you’re nodding, you should head to June Lake, California. This laid back ski town is often overlooked – because it’s less than 30-minutes from the world-renowned Mammoth Mountain – but is a sweet spot for families looking for a slower speed, literally.

While Mammoth is packed with an endless tapestry of slopes (many of which provide adrenaline-soaked thrills), June Mountain is a much smaller alternative that’s easy to navigate, beautifully maintained, and provides a platter of accommodations for kids. For example, kids 12 and under ski or ride for free, they offer lessons with super skilled, patient instructors, and have a great area for kids to play around in the snow when they’re no longer buying your bribe of candy for trying “just a few more runs.” (I’m looking at myself.)

To ensure your June Lake adventure is an ideal balance of fun, comfort, and affordability we’ve pulled together a list of our top spots for eating, sleeping, and playing in this fabulously slow paced mountain hamlet

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Eat

June Pie

Photo by June Pie

One of the newest eateries in June Lake, this pizzeria provides a simple, yet delicious assortment of New York style pizzas that are made with homemade dough and sauce, and fresh ingredients. The goods are cooked in a rotating deck stone oven, which allows the crust to come out light and flavorful. And I don’t know about you, but we’re all about that crust. This is a primo choice if you’re dragging hangry kids off the slopes and would rather do a naked snow angel than cook.

Tiger Bar

Photo by Tiger Bar

This is the place to score a big ole greasy burger, with a side of cold beer and pool. It’s also the best place to people watch, as it’s a popular haunt for locals. Because almost every menu item will stick to your ribs, Tiger Bar is an excellent choice after a rigorous day on the slopes. Get ready to indulge in guilty-pleasure goodies like overflowing sandwiches and nachos, and a dessert menu you’re not allowed to skip.

Eagle’s Landing Restaurant

Photo by Eagle’s Landing

Although many consider this one of the classier eateries around June Lake, you can still feel free to rock up in your snow gear without fear of getting side-eye. This is where you go if you want classic mountain decor, a massive fire, and the creamiest, choclate-iest of hot chocolate. And there’s also food. While the menu is simple, all the comfort food faves are offered, and the quality is high.

June Lake General Store

While nothing spectacular, the June Lake General Store provides the basics for those wanting to whip up their own fare. I also bought one of the tastiest chocolate on chocolate on chocolate Sara Lee pies I’ve ever had at this spot. So keep an eye out for hidden treasures!

Sleep

Yosemite Gateway Chalet

This chalet is what most people envision when thinking of a log cabin in the snow. It fills you with the warm and fuzzies – which is why it’s our top pick when visiting June with our extended tribe in tow (max occupancy is 8.) In addition to being the epitome of cozy-quaint, the house is offered at an affordable rate, and is only three-minutes from June Mountain – our preferred mountain for family ski sessions.

If you’re visiting June Lake in the spring or summer you’re still in for a treat, as the property is surrounded by a large manicured lawn, and sprinkled with aspen and cottonwood trees. There’s also a small creek and adorable mini-bridges winding through the property. Book this gem if you’re yearning for a welcoming snow-shelter, or wanting a home base while you explore the beauty of Yosemite National Park and Mono County.

Double Eagle Lodge

Photo by Double Eagle Resort and Spa

Our go-to when it’s just the three of us heading to June Lake, Double Eagle Lodge gives the housing rentals and hotels in Mammoth a run for their money – without charging the same amount of money.

You can expect plush beds in spacious rooms, stellar views of the mountains (set your alarm for sunrise, and bundle up for star gazing), and a spa that is the perfect remedy for stiff joints. Speaking of the spa, it’s super retro, but in a way that works, especially if you’re a kid that thinks a massive indoor pool and hot tub is pretty much the best thing ever. Oh, and they provide fresh chocolate chip cookies upon check in. I mean…

Play

Ski or Snowboard

Photo by June Mountain

June Mountain has the best family-friendly slopes we’ve ever slid down. It’s never crowded (even on holiday weekends!), has lift ticket rates that don’t make you want to cry, and provides enough runs to create variety, without being overwhelming (here’s looking at you Mammoth.) If you’re in it for the big thrills, head to Mammoth Mountain, but if you’re cool with a mellow day cruising the slopes with your littles, we can almost guarantee you’ll fall in love.

Party at T-Bar Social Club

The Higgs Jam Fest After Party – Photo by T-Bar Social Club

Most don’t think of June Lake as having a happening nightlife, but T-Bar Social Club is changing that. This updated music venue provides quality drinks and food (June Pie is upstairs), and features acts that range from funk, cover bands, jam bands, and reggae, to acoustic, outlaw country, and more. They’ve recently started upping their game with promotions and bookings, so you can expect bigger and bigger names to start gracing their modest stage.

SUP on June Lake

What June Lake lacks in size, it makes up for in mind-bending beauty. This tranquil, shockingly clear expanse of water is The Spot to go on a warm day, especially if you have access to a stand up paddleboard. If you’re staying in the Yosemite Gateway Chalet we mentioned above you’ll have all the needed gear. If not, you can rent boards from Mammoth Kayak.

Get Your Mind Blown at Hot Creek

If you’re into the idea of witnessing milky blue water bubbling up from the bowels of the earth into small pools ringed with layers of travertine, go to Hot Creek. This otherworldly sight is about 30-minutes from June Lake and is a win for geology lovers, or really, anyone with an appreciation for astonishing natural phenomena. The water is heated by magma about three-miles beneath the Earth’s surface, and is surrounded by steam that has spent about 1,000 years traveling through an elaborate underground “plumbing” system.

This sight is located off a dirt road (so you can only access it in the warmer months when the road isn’t covered by snow), and is a short walk from the parking lot above Hot Creek Gorge.

As you walk down the paved path, don’t be scared off by the ominous signs highlighting the area’s death count. Despite an exhaustive amount of warning, people still swim across the Owens River to walk the perimeters of the pools of boiling water. Sometimes, these people slip in and the results are not great. In addition, geyser eruptions and small earthquakes are not uncommon. But as long as you stay on the approved side of the river, you’ll be good. And don’t worry, the views from the safe side are still spectacular.

Soak in Natural Hot Springs

Because none of the springs are secret, minimize your wait time by making a trip on a weekday, or before 4pm. However, if the pool’s full when you arrive, take heart. People are often courteous and clear out after a reasonable amount of time. And even if someone’s not courteous, most can’t stay in super hot water more than 10-15 minutes anyways. While you wait, take in the mountain vistas and make friends. We’ve heard some of the best travel stories from half-naked strangers we’ve met at these pools.

Explore Mono Lake

If you’re visiting June Lake in the spring or summer, be sure to check out this 695-square mile inland sea that’s sprinkled with tufa towers that look like they were beamed down from an alien nation. The far-flung ambiance of this briny lake, coupled with the copious bird watching opportunities, hiking trails that snake around the perimeter of the lake, and kayak rentals makes it a destination you could explore for days.

The post Where to Eat + Sleep + Play In June Lake, CA appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

Australia is one of our all time favorite destinations, especially as Eric was born in Brisbane. The stunning beaches, adventure-filled hiking trails, epic surf, rich foods and cheeky locals make it a wonderland for those who like to explore both the wonders of Mother Nature and the vibrant cultures of foreign cities. However, just like any country, there are aspects of Australia that might be confounding to tourists. To help you navigate it like a pro, here’s a heads up about the key idiosyncrasies of Aussie life.

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1. There’s terminology you need to know.

While you can definitely get by with basic English in Australia, there are a few words that might throw you off. For example…

Cookies are Biscuits.

Candy is lollies.

Gas is petrol.

Trash or garbage is rubbish.

2. The conversion is (currently) super favorable for American travelers.

Before you scoff at Australian prices (which are higher than many Americans are used to) know that when a charge shows up on your credit card it will be much less than you expect. For example, a $180 charge in AUD is about $120 in USD (at least in 2019.)

3. You can’t use US dollars.

While Mexico and many Central American countries will accept USD, Australian vendors expect AUD. However, you can use credit cards, just make sure to put travel alerts on them before you depart.

4. Don’t lose your coins.

When you’re handed a fistful of change, don’t dismiss it, as Australia has $1 and $2 coins (they’re the small gold ones.)

5. Drive on the left side of the road.

You probably already know this, but we included it to ensure travelers understand how initially tricky this can be if you’re from a country that drives on the right side. If possible, spend a few days becoming comfortable with this change before doing heavy duty driving. In addition, drinking and driving is even more dangerous when you’re not used to driving on the left side, as the inebriated brain will easily shift to its go-to of driving on the right side of the road.

6. No left hand turn on a red light.

When you’re making a left hand turn in Australia it feels as though you should be able to turn on a red light, just like you often can in the United States when you’re making a right turn on red. But don’t, because it’s illegal.

7. It’s easy to get a speeding ticket, or popped for driving under the influence.

Beyond the classic method of on-the-road police handing out tickets, there are also cameras that will clock you for going too fast or too slow (we learned this the expensive way), so honor the speed limit even when there aren’t police around. In addition, vans that act as checkpoints for under-the-influence drivers are common, especially on weekend or holiday evenings. And they don’t just breathalyze, they do a cotton swab test to check for drugs.

8. Their speed limits are slower than many areas in the United States.

You’ll likely be a driving a bit slower than you’re used to, but as we mentioned above, they take speeding seriously so slow it down and enjoy the scenery.

9. They use roundabouts instead of stop lights.

Know that when you come to a roundabout yield to the cars coming from your right.

10. Be aware of toll road fees.

Many cities in Australia have toll roads, so if you’re renting a vehicle, ask the agency about their toll road protocol, as some automatically charge you, and others expect you to take care of it on your own through this government website. Fees are rarely more than $5 for the day.

11. Almost all outlets have a switch.

Helping Australians save heaps on electricity are the switches above outlets, preventing appliances from pulling electricity when they’re not needed. So if you’re wondering why your phone isn’t charging or the hair dryer isn’t working, make sure the switch is flipped.

12. You need an outlet converter if you’re from a country that doesn’t use 230 V.

As the US uses 120 V and Australia has 230 V, you’ll need to bring outlet converters. You can get 3-packs for about $6 on good ole Amazon.

Tip: A hair dryer bought in the US was made for 120 V, so you can blow out the motor by using it on high in Australia. Setting it on low or medium will likely be all you need.

13. Everything won’t kill you.

Wallabies at Woody Heads campground

While documentaries chronicling all the critters that can kill you in Aus (mainly insects, reptiles, sharks and crocs) terrify many, it’s pretty unlikely you’ll ever encounter such creatures. We went hiking numerous times and camped, and never saw one dangerous animal – kangaroos, koalas, birds, whales and dolphins were the extent of our animal encounters. Eric also spent half his life in Australia and doesn’t have any good deadly-animal-encounter stories. In addition, there aren’t bears, mountain lions or other large animals to look out for while camping and hiking.

With that said, jellyfish, spiders and snakes that can do you harm are still around, so stay aware, just not paranoid.

14. Come with your sense of humor.

Aussies are sassy and quick with the jokes, so come ready to not take yourself, or others, too seriously.

15. Portions are smaller.

While many American eateries serve heaping plates of food that could easily feed two, Australia often serves portions that are fit for a single person. It’s true that you’re getting less for more, but the quality of the ingredients is often high, and won’t require a nap and antacid after.

16. Pies are savory, not sweet.

When you see delicious looking single serving pies in one of the many Aussie bakeries, don’t expect it to be filled with apples, cherries or chocolate. A staple of the Australian culinary scene are meat pies, meaning you’ll find savory fillings like steak and mushrooms, chicken curry, vegetables and other tasty goods within that flaky crust. Don’t knock it till you try it.

17. Bring your sunscreen.

Australia has mega ultraviolet radiation and the highest level of skin cancer in the world. Because of this, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and UPF clothing are a must.

18. You can expect comprehensive amenities at almost every public recreational space.

Showers, toilets, concession stands and even push-button grills can be found at almost every public beach and park in Australia. In addition, many of these public parks and beaches feature impressive kids’ play areas, making them ideal locales to sip your morning coffee, savor an afternoon picnic, or cook some sausage on the barby as the sun sets.

19. Visiting during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer is the way to go.

As Aussie schools have a year round system, they only have two weeks of holiday during their winter (summer in the north.) So going down under between June and August can help you score cooler weather and fewer crowds.

The post What You Need to Know Before Traveling to Australia appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

“We’re going to the South Pacific” is a phrase that’s sure to elicit a sigh of envy when spoken. And for good reason. This dazzling pocket of the planet has inspired the utopian settings featured in some of the greatest films of all time, and allows travelers to feel as though they’ve truly arrived on vacation, quickly settling them into a state of serenity that’s coupled with a lust for the adventure abundant in the area.

So yup, people want to go to the South Pacific. But when you begin looking into where to go in the South Pacific you realize it’s composed of 25,000 islands and you close your internet browser in overwhelm. To help lessen this fabulous burden, we’ve filled this list with ten of the loveliest islands and archipelagos in this enchanting ocean, and pinpointed what makes them deserve a potential spot on your itinerary.

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Best for Natural Beauty: Moorea, French Polynesia

Bora Bora’s sister island, Moorea seems to have jumped out of the iconic musical South Pacific, especially as it’s said to have inspired the movies’ mythical island Bali Hai. With its lagoon of water so clear you feel as though you’re floating on air when you swim through it, expanses of powder-soft sand, and eight emerald peaks cascading into the South Pacific Ocean, the setting is full on fairytale.

Highlights of the island include Opunohu Bay, a lagoon featuring mind=blowing snorkeling, and Belvedere Lookout, the treasure at the end of a moderate hike that mesmerizes with views of the island’s mountainscapes and bays.

For a taste of the local culture, visit Tiki Village where you can enjoy a traditional buffet dinner and performances by local dancers. In addition, explorers can engage in safari and stingray feeding tours, ziplining, and diving off the deck of one of the island’s many over-water villas.

Best for Originality: Fuvahmulah

Those with a passion for one-of-a-kind flora and fauna will appreciate Fuvahmulah, the only one-island atoll in the Maldives, which has a fish and a bird native to the island – the Kattelhi fish, and the Valikukulhu bird that features a distinctive red and yellow beak. In addition, it is one of the only islands in the Maldives that has fresh water lakes.

Adding even more originality to Fuvahmulah is the variety of fruit trees, including mango, guava, pineapple, orange and pomegranate, in addition to sweet potato that grows naturally in the wetlands, and berries and unusual fruits that can be found in the wild. This dynamic tapestry of life makes exploring the island on foot a favorite pastime.

Best for Luxury: Bora Bora

The golden child of the South Pacific (and for good reason), Bora Bora is a wonderland of towering peaks, sand-kissed islets, and an aquamarine lagoon surrounded by a coral reef bustling with life. It’s easy to imagine Moana sailing by on her outrigger canoe.

Beyond the luxury offered at the island’s many resorts (some of which have over-water villas with glass floors!), ample adventure is offered with shark and stingray feedings (and snorkeling for those with the courage for it), hikes on trails that weave up the sides of Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia, and jet ski excursions around the island.

When appetites are stoked, head to the famous Bloody Mary’s, or nosh on the French-inspired food found at the gourmet eateries at many of the resorts. With all that said, know that the notoriety of the island has made many of the accommodations come with a high price tag. However, there are deals to be found.

Best for Photography: Samoa

Shaped by volcanic explosions, Samoa is a unique and underutilized country composed of ten islands that are home to barbed peaks, carpets of lush jungles, lots of waterfalls and coral reefs encircling these utopias. This natural beauty, coupled with traditional values and customs the loyals so beautifully honor and display, make Samoa a dream for photographers wanting to capture the authentic spirit of the country.

Snorkeling, diving, fishing, and kayaking, are popular aquatic activities here, much like the other islands. Epic surf can also be had, but because of the gnarly combo of bare skin and coral reef, only experienced surfers should brave Samoa’s swells.

On the beaches and within the jungles, travelers can connect with the wild beauty of the islands during rainforest hikes, bike tours, swims in waterfalls and To Sua, a 30-meter-deep crater filled with seawater, and of course, beachside massages.

Another lovely feature of this country is that it offers a range of accommodations, from thatched-roof huts to five-star resorts, making it accessible to all.

Best for Beaches: Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu

The largest island in Vanuatu, Espiritu Santo is famous for its beaches, specially Champagne and Lonnoc Beach. Champagnes Beach is aptly-named, as it seems to fizz at low tide because of gas escaping volcanic rock. Beyond the fizz, soft sand, shockingly clear water and an abundance of foliage surrounding the beach make this an increasingly popular destination for tourists. So if you want to enjoy this haven sans throngs of people, wake up before the sun so you can watch it spread across the water there – it’s worth it. And then there’s Lonnoc Beach: it rivals Champagne Beach in beauty and is slightly less touristy.

Divers will be blissed-out here as they explore world-renowned dive sites like President Coolidge, Million Dollar Point, and numerous other ship and plane wrecks.

When out of the water, adventure-lovers can trek through the jungle to the alien-like Millennium Cave, which features a bat-filled cavern, swimming hole and waterfall, and series of rapids. In addition to the cave, Espiritu Santo is known for its stunning blue holes, composed of clear water that bubbles up from freshwater springs through layers of limestone in blue hues. From beaches to blue holes, this is an island you could easily spend weeks exploring.

Best for Whale Watching: Vava’u Group, Tonga

This group of 61 islands (many of them itty-bitty) is where you go to swim with humpback whales and their calves (and sometimes whale sharks), or spot them from one of the many boats following their spouts between July to October. And because of the 100-foot visibility common in the waters surrounding these islands, it won’t be hard to keep an eye on these gentle giants. That visibility also comes in handy when diving the sea caves and shipwrecks you can explore alongside 100 species of tropical fish, massive clams (so big a little dog could fit inside one), manta rays, sea turtles, and spinner dolphins.

As this area has yet to see an overflow of resorts popping up on its shores, the travel unicorns of deserted beaches and unbleached coral gardens still exist here, allowing travelers to have a full on “unplugging from the modern world” getaway. In addition, this is a prime place for surfers to book a boat excursion to many of the best, mostly-empty waves in the South Pacific. The Tongan winter swell season runs from April to October.

When you’re not exploring the islands’ waters and shores, check out the ‘Ene’io Botanical Garden that features 550 varieties of plants, or Mt. Talau National Park where you can explore trails leading to lookouts, thickets of rainforest filled with endangered tree and plant species, and prehistoric-esque birds and reptiles.

Best for Swimming: Isles of Pines

Named the Isles of Pines by Captain Cook because of its slender pines that stand out against the white shores, this island is one of the most visually compelling in the South Pacific.

The waters are so transparent it’s hard to see where the sand dips beneath the warm waters. However, when you look further out to sea the water takes on a hypnotic blue hue. As the aquatic world surrounding Isle of Pines is so spectacular it’s easy to see why most visitors rarely leave the water, choosing to spend their time exploring the community beneath the surface.

One of the most popular swimming areas is Piscine Naturelle, a natural pool filled with tropical fish, and warm water that makes you want to float on your back for hours. Another must-see is Kanumera Bay where you can partake in some of the best snorkeling on the island at the base of Rocher de Kaa Nuë Méra, a massive rock islet that’s sacred and forbidden to walk on. A boat tour to Upi Bay is also recommended, as it features foliage-covered rock formations rising from the calm sea.

If you can pull yourself out of the water, head to Grotte de la Reine Hortense, a wildlife park filled with jurassic-like tropical gardens and a massive cave/tunnel dripping with stalactites – if dinos were still around, they’d live here.

Best for Culture: Yasawa Islands, Fiji

A long chain of islets dotting the sea north of Viti Levu (Fiji’s main island), the Yasawa Islands are the place to go if you’re hoping to experience authentic Fijian culture – a society of people believed to be the happiest on Earth. As these islands were closed to land-based tourism until somewhat recently, they’ve been largely untouched by modern influences. Because of this, the accommodations on the islands are primarily limited to simple lodgings run by locals, adding to the real McCoy vibes of a vacation here.

Adventure can be had in the limestone caves of Sawa-i-lau, nature-made wonders shining with green and gold-hued walls, and turquoise water ideal for swimming – light filters in from a hole in the rock “roof” allowing the surface of the water to occasionally appear to be covered in diamonds. Legend says a young chief once used the caves as a hiding place for his love, whose family was trying to betroth her to a rival chief. They of course lived happily ever after. Some Fijians also say that the 10-headed God Ulutini rests in the caves.

Beyond exploring the folklore-filled caves, you can snorkel or scuba dive with Bull, Tiger, Tawny Nurse, Lemon and Silver Tip sharks on Kuata Island, or commune with manta rays on Drawaqa Island. Rafting, waterfall hikes, sailing and kayaking can also be enjoyed across these adventure-filled archipelagos.

As food is an integral part of any culture, be sure to put your foodie hat on and sample local dishes inspired by Indian, Southeast Asian and Chinese cuisines, in addition to the local Melanesian influences. And to really see the Fijian spirit in full force, make sure to catch a rugby game.

Best for Scuba Diving: Palau

Referred to as “the underwater Serengeti,” the 200 islands that make up Palau are encircled by a world-famous, massive barrier reef filled with colorful coral, ghostly ship and plane wrecks, and lively communities of marine life, including barracudas, Napoleon wrasses, jacks, schools of grey reef sharks; snails, clams, sea cucumbers, starfish, sea urchins, sea anemones, jellyfish, squid, and feather-duster worms. Phew.

Popular dive sites include Blue Corner, Blue Holes (expect lots of blue), Chandelier Cave, German Channel, and Turtle Wall, among many others. Bring your underwater camera.

And then there’s Jellyfish Lake, a fabulously eerie body of water filled with stingless golden jellyfish. This activity is a must, especially because climate change is slowly killing off the lake’s residents.

Above the surface, this archipelago of limestone and volcanic islands is covered in emerald forests, pockets of freshwater, and WWII relics. The Rock Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are especially stunning with 52 marine lakes, acclaimed birding and unique biodiversity. These islands can be explored via kayaking or hiking tours.

Making Palau all the more appealing is the eco-pledge they require tourists to make upon arrival, which means committing to being stewards of the environment.

Best for Affordability: Cook Islands

Composed of 15 atolls, the Cook Islands offer an unpretentious experience that fosters a connection with nature and people more than luxury amenities. With regulations that include no buildings being higher than the tallest coconut tree, and no branded resorts, these islands are all about a down-to-earth lifestyle. Oh, and there are no stoplights on the roads, which are primarily inhabited by scooters.

While there are numerous hotels on the Cook Islands, one of the most popular and affordable options for accommodations is a vacation home. Airbnb is filled with selections that allow travelers to have a wonderfully remote vacation that lets them live out Swiss Family Robinson fantasies.

In addition to naps on empty, paradisiacal beaches, and swims in waters where the only other living creatures have fins, you can enjoy the islands via scuba diving, snorkeling, SUPing, and sea scooters (they’re a thing!), or through lagoon cruises, hiking and biking. For those that get grumpy in over-crowded tourist traps, or at resorts that are over-charging, this is the place to go.

The post 10 Must-See Utopian Islands in the South Pacific appeared first on Adventure Travel Fam.

Beyond the foundation of our love for Mammoth (the 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, 28 lifts, pure air, and endless, ancient pine forests) are the modern conveniences, such as hundreds of accommodation options, great food, and The Village, which features spas, non-dive bars, and excellent opportunities to people watch by outdoor fire pits. And then there’s the year round twinkle lights covering much of the town – yes, please.

While it has a thriving youth culture and party scene, Mammoth also offers numerous family-friendly events and conveniences, making it a prime destination for adventurous families, or those who just like cozying up by the fire in a snow-covered cabin.

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Where to Sleep

As a resort town, almost every structure you see in Mammoth has a room, or more, for rent. Whether you’re looking for an economy hotel, upscale resort, studio apartment, or big ole cabin, Mammoth has something that is sure to please your entire brood.

Airbnb

This is our go-to option, as we can get a comfortable, (usually) updated place that suits the exact number of people we’re traveling with. If you want variety with the style, price and location of the rentals, book your Airbnb (or VRBO) at least two months in advance.

From an economical standpoint, these rentals are unbeatable as they almost always have a full kitchen, allowing you to eat in for many of your meals. In addition, many of these spaces have up-to-date entertainment systems (often with Netflix + Amazon), and games and movies. Unless you want to be able to walk to the lifts, or The Village gondola, location isn’t much of an issue as almost all Mammoth rentals are a 5-15 minute drive to the mountain’s numerous lodges.

The Village Lodge Mammoth

The Village Lodge is a laid-back, yet upscale, home base for travelers who want a mountain chic ambiance, like to be at the center of the action, and don’t want to hassle with driving to the slopes. With a prime location in the heart of Mammoth, this resort is able to offer a free on-site gondola that delivers guests directly to Canyon Lodge, and easy access to numerous boutiques and day spas.

In addition, The Village is like an edible playground with high-quality eateries ranging from Italian to sushi, plus numerous varieties of dessert. Adding to the sweet taste of convenience provided by this renowned lodge is the 5-mile radius shuttle service, childcare, DVD movie library, outdoor fire pits, in-room fireplaces, fitness room, game room, laundry services, media, pool and hot tubs. They’ve succeeded in the enviable feat of having it all.

Snow Creek Resort

If you want towering pine trees, a sprawling golf course and views of Mammoth Mountain, Mammoth Rock, and the Sherwin and White mountain ranges to be the backdrop of your stay, check out Snow Creek. This resort is a luxurious 449-acre alpine village with finely-appointed one to four bedroom condos (many of which offer garages and private hot tubs), a 9-hole golf course (that’s fun to sled on, but don’t tell them we said so), and a 30,000 square foot athletic center that includes the Double Eagle Spa (try a facial), tennis courts, racquetball courts, wellness classes, and indoor and outdoor pools.

Located within the Snow Creek Meadow Preserve, this community was crafted with Mother Nature in mind, highlighting rugged wonders such as the glimmering Mammoth Creek that winds through the area. Although the resort creates the sense that you’ve landed in a secluded, frosted oasis, Snow Creek is only a 5-minute drive to The Village, and a 10-15 minute drive to many of the Mammoth Mountain lodges.

Westin Manache Resort

Photo Credit: Westin Manache Resort

One of the most elegant hotel options in Mammoth, the Westin accommodates any size of family, as they offer standard rooms, two-bedroom suites, and everything in between. In addition to the chic ambiance (not too mountain-y, with the exception of the views) and impeccable service, this resort is incredibly convenient, as it’s located across the street from The Village, and the gondola that drops you at Canyon Lodge.

Making the suites all the more attractive for families looking for comfort and usability, are the gas fireplaces, kitchens or kitchenettes, flat-screen TVs, Heavenly Beds (yes, please), balconies that offer jaw-dropping vistas, and beloved Wi-Fi. And if your furry family needs to tag along, the hotel has pet-friendly suites. Other wonderfully opulent amenities include in-room massages, a heated outdoor pool, hot tubs galore, and a tricked out fitness studio.

Mammoth Mountain Inn

If your family wants to spend every possible second on the slopes, this inn will be your jam as it’s located at the base of Mammoth’s Main Lodge slopes, offering ski-in/ski-out access and in-room boot fittings. And when the lifts close, a large outdoor hot tub and cozy, fireside seating arrangements in the lodge await. Standard rooms to two-bedrooms condos are offered, in addition to a standalone chalet that sleeps six. Sweetening this spot are the unbeatable deals, including the Lift+Lodge package that provides a lift ticket and gondola ride (that takes you to the summit) for every guest on the reservation, every day of your stay.

Tamarack Lodge and Resort

The ideal haven for a digital-detox, the historic Tamarack Lodge and Resort is a screen-free (not as painful as it sounds), mellow and meditative escape, offering the classic cabin-in-the-woods experience. Resting on 6-acres, and being the place to go for cross-country ski gear, maps, trails and guides, Tamarack is the optimal location for families who would rather not downhill ski.

Beyond cross country skiing, their prime position on the shores of Twin Lakes makes it an epic spot for sightseeing. While this resort is only 7-miles from Mammoth Mountain, the numerous amenities, including a gourmet restaurant, make this a vacation destination unto itself, maybe even convincing you to not leave the premises for the duration of your stay.

Where to Eat + Drink

There’s something about shlepping around kids and an arsenal of snow gear, then careening down snow-soaked slopes that inspires a lumberjack appetite. Mammoth has heard the call of the skier’s stomach, serving up an impressive array of eateries that wrap you in coziness, coat your mouth in yumminess, and offer enough carbs and melted cheese to keep the children from rioting. And there’s caffeine as far as your fatigued parent eyes can see.

Black Velvet Coffee

The science of good coffee is taken to a new level at this amiable, hipster “caffeine lab.” Because of the 8,000+ foot altitude in Mammoth, Black Velvet had to adjust the classic espresso chemistry and are always tinkering with their brewing methods and taste profiles, ensuring patrons receive cutting-edge, opulent brews that fuel their mountain adventures. For children who are not yet espresso aficionados, fresh, perfectly over-the-top baked goods (including cereal-covered waffles) are provided.

Shea Schat’s Bakery

To make sure our under-butts don’t lose their attractive layer of cellulite, we have a family tradition of indulging in Schat’s Bakery the morning we leave Mammoth. The abundance of flaky, butter-filled goods soothes the sting of saying goodbye and allows us to stock up on homemade candy, pastries and cookies for the ride home. To minimize our guilt, we’ll also grab a few of their sandwiches, which are made with fresh bread and veggies, in addition to high-quality meat and cheese.

Good Life Café

While they offer good lunch and dinner options, Good Life Cafe is where it’s at for breakfast. Go here to find affordable, well-portioned and expertly prepped favorites like omelettes, scrambles and oh-so-fluffy pancakes, in addition to sumptuous twists on classics, like the Gobbler (turkey) Benedict, or Crab Cake Benedict. We’ll usually grab an early morning meal here and leave so satisfied we don’t need to eat again until we grab a 5pm early-bird-special with all the grandparents in town.

Zpizza

A pizza (maybe with some veggies thrown on for good measure), a delivery, and a stack of paper plates = a slice of heaven for many parents, especially those who have been braving the snow with children all day. If you’re so done with wearing anything but pajamas, and would rather do a naked snow angel than cook, order a Zpizza.

This joint has an eclectic menu that will allow you to please the kid with an aversion to everything but pepperoni, the gluten-intolerant and occasional vegan one (they offer a cauliflower crust), and you, the parents who want to mix it up with something delicious and different like a Tuscan Mushroom or Provence pizza. And because pizza can sometimes come with a side of parent-guilt, rest assured that their pies are made with certified organic tomato sauce, non-gmo flour, cheese from grass-fed cows, and preservative-free pepperoni and deli meats.

Mammoth Brewing Company

The place for apres-ski, and some communing with locals who use this as their hub, the Mammoth Brewing Co offers a tasting room, eatery, and laid-back environment that’s especially lovely during the Spring skiing season when you can sit outside. There’s usually around 15 beers on tap, in addition to some delicious root beer that kids love to pretend is a brewski. And then there’s the eatery with stick-to-your-rib fare that, when followed up with a soak in a hot tub and a warm bed, is divine. Our favorite options are the hopped tots, BBQ chicken pizza, naan tacos, crispy chicken griddle cakes and the Damn Good Burger.

Nevados

While you might want to skip Nevados if you have younger children, this is an excellent choice for date night, if you have someone to babysit your brood (Care.com can be a good option.) Nevados is often our go-to for a birthday or anniversary celebration that makes it easier to say yes to a splurge. As one of Mammoth’s premiere fancy-pants restaurants, you can expect white table cloths, a lot of silverware, and a server that knows all the things about all the wines.

But Nevados strays from classic luxury dining in one area – portions. Instead of portions that appear to have been made for ants, they offer up just-right servings that won’t stuff you, but also won’t require a stop at Taco Bell afterwards. So treat yourself and your honey to some innovative American cuisine, picturesque mountain views, and an excuse to put on something besides water resistant pants – you deserve it

53 Kitchen

This is a fun choice for a laid-back date night as 53 Kitchen has excellent food and cocktails at a fair price. The ambiance is chic without being stuffy, and the servers are personable. A few times, it took awhile to receive our appetizer, but our main dishes always came soon after – we saw it as a good excuse to order more alcohol. Our favorite dishes are the pretzel bread and crab cakes, sweet tea brined crispy chicken, and red quinoa and Farro salad.

If you’re starving after the slopes, fill your bellies and save some dough by catching the happy hour between 3-5pm. This is a good choice if you’ll be dining with the whole fam, as you’re seated in the very comfortable bar area (that’s filled with kid-approved booths and screens displaying ski + boarding videos) and have the option of many of the restaurant’s best dishes (and a signature cocktail and beer) at a super reduced rate. As 53 Kitchen is located in The Village, digest your food by posting up by one of the outdoor fire pits and people watching.

Campo Restaurant

If you’re looking for legit pizza, served up in a mountain-chic environ, Campo is for you. While they offer all varieties of Italian fare, you go to Campo for the pizza, which is wood-fired and topped with fresh ingredients, including handcrafted salumi. Our favorite is the Bee Sting – who knew honey and basil could create such a delicious union. And for the love of the food Gods, do not leave without ordering at least one Caramel Budino.

Mogul Restaurant

Steak-lovers will rejoice at Mogul, where expertly-prepared beef is the main attraction. Tasty, classic sides like baked potatoes, steamed veggies, rice and an all-you-can-eat salad bar compliment the meat, while desserts like the White Charlotte and Blackberry pie finish the meal on a satisfying note. If beef isn’t your jam, there are plenty of chicken, fish and pasta dishes, in addition to a kid’s menu.

Roberto’s Mexican Cafe

Being from Texas, Bailey never thought she’d find good Mexican food in the middle of the Sierra Nevadas, but alas, Roberto’s has done it, offering quality, authentic nosh that is oh so satisfying after a day burning calories on frozen water. And because of all that calorie burning, ordering cheesy-goodness like the shrimp-stuffed chile relleno or enchiladas rancheras doesn’t feel too naughty. This place is fairly small and gets crowded fast, so call for reservations. 

Bishop Burger

On trips where we head home after a day of skiing, we’re ravenous by the time we arrive in Bishop. While we used to subject ourselves to the likes of the fast food options littering Bishop’s main street, a little birdie told us about Bishop Burger and our lives have never been the same. Numerous varieties of burgers, fries, onion rings, and a fabulous collection of malts and milkshakes (all of which are made with fresh, non-chemical ridden ingredients) are offered, making this a sublime choice after many days of skiing. For non-beef eaters, they provide an excellent veggie burger.

Although it’s off the beaten path, word is out on the high-quality deliciousness at Bishop Burger, as it’s always packed. You can save yourself significant wait time by calling in your order (760-920-6567) about 20-minutes before you reach Bishop.

Where to Play

While chilly temps make it tempting to stay in the flannels all day, posted up with a hot drink and book by the fire (and don’t worry, there will be plenty of time for that), the captivating beauty of Mammoth, coupled with its copious opportunities for adventure, demand action.

Whether you’re in Mammoth for its primo attraction of downhill skiing and boarding, or prefer your snow excursions to be on the mellower side, this resort town has a frosty platter of activities that’s sure to please any variety of adventurer. And if you’re set on being fireside all day, these thrilling activities will get the family out of the cabin so you can savor some sweet sweet alone time.

Skiing + Snowboarding

The obvious choices, as Mammoth was founded on downhill snow gliding, skiing and snowboarding opportunities abound in Mammoth with five lodges, 3,500 acres of skiable terrain and 28 lifts. Conditions here are often excellent, as they are ideally situated to receive regular snow dumps, make snow when the storms are sparse, and release an army of snowcats every night that groom the runs, ensuring those who pull themselves out of bed early enough can score corduroy runs. But even if you’re a late riser, the temps in Mammoth often stay low enough to keep the snow crisp throughout the day.

Because Mammoth is a premier skiing destination, they have rates that match… so if you’re looking for a more economical option, sleep + eat in Mammoth, but ski at nearby June Mountain, which offers family-friendly and affordable slopes. If you’re set on Mammoth, and plan to ski more than four days in the season, you can score a serious price break by investing in the Ikon Pass, or Ikon Base Pass.

Tip: If you’ll be on the mountain during a storm, check the wind forecast. If winds will be high plan to stick to the lower lifts, as it’s likely that lifts heading to the top of the mountain will be closed, or unbearable.

Cross Country Skiing

While downhill skiing is the thing to do if you’re seeking thrills, cross country skiing is where it’s at for in-depth, jaw dropping sightseeing. Mother Nature has blessed Mammoth Lakes with natural wonders so extraordinary you half expect Anna and Elsa to jump out of the forest and start singing you a ballad you’ll never get out of your head. To fully commune with this splendor you need to strap on some toothpick-esque skies and get to gliding.

To ensure you have the right equipment (and know how to use it), don’t get lost, and generally have the tools for a life changing foray across the sparkling floor of Mammoth’s pine forests, head to Tamarack Cross Country Ski Center. Tamarack offers all the essentials, including guides for those who don’t want to take full responsibility for their family’s safety while exploring the frozen woods (which is us – we’re happy to forfeit responsibility any day.)

As dreamy as this all sounds, you should know that it’s a work out. Cross country skiing is certainly easier to get the hang of than downhill skiing, but will require effort. So if you’re going out with younger children, or you’re knocked up, request an easier trail and take your sweet time.

Snowmobile Adventures

Blasting across the snow without having to do much more than hang on is delightful. Mammoth is a renowned destination for snowmobile junkies, as it offers over 95 square miles of groomed and ungroomed trails, open expanses to explore, and reputable rental and tour companies.

While there are plenty of local businesses touting snowmobiles, our favorites are DJ’s Snowmobile Adventures and the snowmobile outfit run by Mammoth Mountain, which is located at Main Lodge. These options offer snowmobile rentals and guided tours at reasonable rates, and have professional guides that create safe and stimulating adventures. But before you get the kiddos stoked on the idea, know that the minimum age for passengers is 5, and all drivers must have a driver’s license.

Woolly’s Tube Park and Snow Play

If you’re still raring for snow sliding after getting off the slopes, head to Woolly’s Tube Park where a tube-lift will pull you to the top of a series of groomed lanes. For the little littles, they have a Snow Play area to craft a snowman, ride in slow circles on a tube-merry-go-round (which is pretty hilarious), enjoy photos ops in various festive, perfectly cheesy cutouts, and stir up an epic snowball fight. And because nothing compliments physical activity in the snow like warm sugar, you can complete your tube park adventure with hot cocoa and snacks on the their heated porch. If you’re driving down from Main Lodge or The Mill, the tube park will be on your left before you reach The Village.

Tip: While children 12 and under ride free, tickets for older children and adults can be a bit steep. If you’d rather skip the fees and put extra effort into your sledding endeavors, consider the below activity.

Side-of-the-Road Sledding

Unless you’re visiting Mammoth at the very beginning or end of ski season, there’s likely a decent amount of sledable snow on the side of the 203 (the road that leads to Main Lodge and The Mill.) First off, purchase a sled at one of the many sports shops (or bring one from home) then find a gentle slope on the side of the 203. There are numerous areas with expanses of snow that aren’t not too steep, too flat, or littered with pine trees.

Just drive slow and find a safe area to pull over on the shoulder when you see an area worth exploring. Have one adult scope out the area, ensuring there aren’t any drop offs or deep pockets of snow, and resist the urge to travel deep into the woods – you should always be able to see the car. Finally, do a test run before you put the kids on the sled, verifying the sled comes to a stop in a safe area, and then revel in your free sledding.

Scenic Gondola Ride

View of Minarets from the summit of Mammoth Mountain

Because Bailey is too chicken to ski off the top of Mammoth Mountain, she takes the round trip scenic gondola ride with Hudson on each visit. When friends later ask if she made it to the top, and how the runs were, she can smile and nod, telling them that the runs had snow on them. With that said, it still takes guts to ride in a cable-suspended-pod to a 11,053-foot-high mountaintop. If you’re panic-attack-scared of heights, just skip it. But if you’re only kinda scared, do it – it’s a breathtaking experience as the gondola drops you off at the Eleven53 Interpretative Center and Cafe where you can discover the dramatic geologic, natural and cultural history of the area and bask in the glory of 360 degree views. Be sure to take photos outside by the summit sign, where you can take a page from Bailey’s playbook and snap a pic with your gear, even if you have no intention of using it.

Tip: Get 20% off scenic gondola tickets if you purchase in advance.

Woolly’s Saturday Parade at The Village Plaza

Get the chance to meet Mammoth’s giant, hairy, tusked and mute local celebrity Woolly during his (or her?) weekly parade in The Village Plaza. Parade events run from 3:45pm to 4:30pm, every Saturday, during ski season and include face-painting, a dance party with the ski and snowboard school crew, complimentary cocoa from Huski Chocolate (it runs out, so show up at 3:45pm to make sure you score the goods), photos with Woolly, Huck, Goldie and Bucky, and of course, a parade with the whole hairy gang. Mammoth also offers a slew of other events, like helmet decorating, apres ski parties, and other family-friendly social treats throughout the season.

Tip: These parades can get hectic, so if you have little ones keep them close, and if you have big ones make a plan for where to meet after the parade if you get separated.

Natural Hot Springs

Shepherd Hot Springs in Mammoth Lakes

When some people hear the term “natural hot springs” their mind’s nose elicits the lovely smell of rotten eggs. But your nose has nothing to fear in Mammoth, as its hot springs are sulphur-fee and don’t smell like Mother Nature farted. These springs are 15-minutes outside town and provide spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. They make you feel like you’re in a movie (a happy one, during a music montage), especially if it starts snowing, as it did when we were there the night of Bailey’s 30th birthday.

If you’re visiting with kids, go earlier than later to avoid the rowdier crowds, and be forewarned that there may be naked people. And hey, maybe those naked people will be you – no judgment – it feels good to be free Just prepare your kids for potential butt sightings.

Our favorite spots are the Crab Cooker Hot Springs (more appealing than it sounds), Wild Willy’s (yes, there might be wild willys present), and Shepherd Hot Springs.

Note: The Internet says Shepherd Hot Springs is “permanently closed,” but we were just there (as of the date this is being written – January 16, 2019). Hopefully that doesn’t mean the tub is filled with a mysterious bacteria and we’re now going to sprout eleventh toes… We’ll keep you posted.

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While you can’t really go wrong on the shores of any Hawaiian island, there are a handful of beaches that stand out for a variety of reasons. We’ve made sure to include everything from beaches of various colors, and shores that melt into waters filled with a rainbow of sea life, to pristine stretches of sand ideal for a lazy day, and coves that require some serious trekking to get to.

As you can imagine, research for this list was just grueling But we pulled through to help you prevent the often-paralyzing experience of trying to figure out what Hawaiian beach to explore.

Two of these beaches aren’t great choices for kids, or those with special health circumstances – it won’t be hard to figure out which ones. But if you’re up for a challenge that reaps astonishing rewards, procure childcare for the little ones and indulge in a thrilling date with your partner, or a fellow adventurous adult.

If your favorite Hawaiian beach isn’t on this list, please tell us about it in the comments below.

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Best Beach for a Snorkel: Tunnels Beach, Kauai

A nirvana for snorkeling and scuba diving, Kauai’s Tunnels Beach features a coral reef so expansive and vibrant it can be seen from space. Think on that for a minute. For those with an oxygen tank strapped to their back, or an impressive lung capacity, a series of underwater tunnels, created by lava tubes thousands of years ago, can be enjoyed. However, the tunnels are best toured with a guide, especially if it’s your first time.

When the warm, crystal waters have crinkled your skin, the blonde crescent-shaped beach is the perfect setting for a nap, picnic or that quintessential long walk.

For fans of nature photography, you don’t have to worry about buildings photo bombing your shots, as Tunnels Beach is lined by palms and ironwood trees and a few well placed peaks. Speaking of photos, sunset at this spot offers seriously stunning photos ops.

How to Get There

If you’re heading east on Highway 560 from Hanalei towards Ha’ena, you’ll find Tunnels Beach adjacent to mile marker 8. To access the beach and street parking, turn on the narrow road that’s 0.4 miles past mile marker 8, or the one that’s 0.6 miles past. Don’t park on the highway, as you’ll likely get ticketed. And, avoid the hassle of not scoring a parking spot by going earlier in the day.

Best Beach for a Swim: Lanikai Beach, Oahu

The fact that Lanikai means “heavenly ocean” is appropriate, as this beach offers some of the clearest, most tranquil water on Oahu, making it ideal for not only swimming but non-wave water sports like stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and cat napping on floaties.

You’ve probably seen this beach in various print ads or commercials, as it’s a hotspot for those trying to enhance the product they’re selling with the natural splendor of this oasis. Adding to the appeal are two islands, or “mokes,” jutting out of the sea not far from shore -so don’t forget your camera. And if you’re looking for the ultimate place to propose, or treat your partner to a swoon-worthy date, post up on this beach during a full moon – it’s a big wow.

Tip: Lanikai Beach is PACKED on the weekends, especially during holidays, so plan to enjoy it on a weekday, during sunrise, or after the sun sets and the moon makes it ascent.

How to Get There

If you’re staying near Kailua, getting to Lanikai Beach via ride-share is the most convenient option, as you won’t have to deal with parking. If you’re driving yourself, know that parking is strictly enforced in this area, so be hyper vigilant about reading signs. All access is through footpaths between homes off Mokulua Drive, primarily between Kaelepulu and Onekea. Your best bet is to search for parking on the streets perpendicular to Mokulua.

Best “Beach” for a Thrill: Queens Bath, Kauai

Probably one of the most famous tide pools in the world, Queens Bath is a swimming pool-sized sinkhole in lava rock, filled with the aquamarine waters of the Pacific. It was created after a lava tube collapsed, and is named after the folklore that Hawaiian royalty bathed here.

While it’s not safe to swim in the water surrounding Queens Bath, it’s fun to creature-watch, as sea turtle and schools of bright fish use this patch of ocean as an aquatic playground.

Thrill-Seekers Beware: When the surf is big, waves can crash into this tide pool, or even on to the trail leading to the bath. While this type of surf is what allows the pool to have water, it also creates dangerous conditions. So, check the surf report for the Queens Bath area to ensure the surf is 4 feet or less. It’s best to not even bother a hike and swim here between October and May, when the surf is typically large. All you have to do it search Queens Bath on YouTube to see how treacherous it can be.

Before you get in the “bath,” observe the ocean to ensure the surf report was correct. Surf can be unpredictable, so trust your eyes and instincts more than anything. However, if the surf report predicted waves over 4 feet, but all looks tranquil, you should still skip it, as the larger waves could show up at any time.

How to Get There

First off, GPS to Kapiolani Loop and park in a small lot at the end of the loop, right before it turns into Punahele Road. Next, follow the trail for about ten minutes until you reach lava rock that disappears into the ocean. Finally, turn left and (carefully!) walk along the rocks for five-ish minutes until you reach Queens Bath. This trail can be muddy and slippery, so it’s essential to bring good walking shoes and a hiking stick/pole.

Best Beach for an Adventure: Honopu Beach, Kauai

This is one of the only beaches in Hawaii that’s almost guaranteed to not have a crowd… and not because it’s subpar – this Jurassic-esque fantasyland can only be accessed by a swim from a neighboring beach, or an offshore boat. But if you’re a strong swimmer, and determined to investigate one of the most remote shores on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, you’re in for a well-earned treat.

When you reach this cove, flanked by two 1,200-foot sea cliffs, the environment is so prehistoric you half expect a triceratops to lumber out of the jungle (even though dinosaurs never actually lived on these islands.)

For intrepid travelers willing to make the aquatic trek from nearby Kalalau Beach, or that aforementioned offshore boat, wear a mask, snorkel and fins, be sure you can get in and out during low tide and check the surf report to ensure you won’t be swimming in an angry sea.

How to Get There

We feel it’s worth the money to charter a boat to take you as close as possible to Honopu Beach. An added perk of this option is that the boat captain will likely have in-depth knowledge of the currents and tide schedule, helping to ensure your swim is as safe as possible. Check out Na Pali Riders for boat tours.

If you’re an avid hiker and camper, contact Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park to inquire about hiking and camping permits for the 11-mile trail you’ll need to traverse to reach Kalalau Beach. This trail is for highly skilled backpackers only. If you’ll be swimming from Kalalau Beach, walk to the Southwestern-most edge of the beach, then start swimming Southwest, along the shore. For a hiking guide, reach out to Hike Kauai With Me.

Best Beach to Watch Big Wave Surfing (in the Winter): Sunset Beach Park, Oahu

Located on the legendary North Shore, this iconic two-mile beach likely matches the vision that materializes when you fantasize about sipping a cocktail on Hawaiian sands. In the summer, when the waves are flat, this is one of the many dreamy ribbons of Hawaiian seaside optimal for swimming, snorkeling, sun worshipping and reading those gossip mags we hide between the pages of a National Geographic.

But in the winter (October – April), this beach comes alive, serving as one of the most popular sites to witness the best surfers in the world tackle the fury of the ocean. 15 – 30+ foot surf can be seen on many days during the winter, but because the biggest waves break quite a ways out, bring binoculars to catch the drama up close. Oh, and the sunsets. This place was named Sunset Beach for good reason.

P.S. You’ll rejoice when you find restrooms and showers across the street from the beach.

How to Get There

Sunset Beach is located outside Haleiwa Town past Waimea Bay. The address is 59-144 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa 96712 if you’ll be GPS-ing. It’s about 45 – 60 minutes North of Honolulu.

While you can park on the Kamehameha Highway, which borders Sunset Beach, the easiest place to park is Sunset Beach Support Park (where you’ll find those restrooms and showers!)

Best Beach for People Watching: Kaanapali Beach, Maui

One of the most popular beaches on Maui, this three-mile stretch of sand is the ideal place to engage in incredibly amusing people watching and good-natured eavesdropping. But when you get tired of watching those strangers flirt, kids digging an epic booby trap, and that abnormally-tan, Speedo-clad muscle man doing lunges, you can walk along the powder-soft sand and check out the many resorts and eateries bordering the beach, or float in the turquoise sea that seems to be filled with diamonds when the light hits it just right. This beach is so spectacular it was once a retreat for Maui royalty.

If you need a break from the sun, check out Whalers Village, which is a shopping center that includes an acclaimed whaling museum and regular shows by local performers. For those that hang out till sunset, don’t miss Puu Kekaa, or Black Rock, the daily cliff diving ceremony off the beach’s northern cliffs. This reenactment of a acclaimed act by Maui’s King Kahehili, consists of a cliff diver lighting the torches along the bluff, then diving off Black Rock.

How to Get There

This beach is a 45-minute drive from Kahului airport, and accessed by taking Honoapiilani Highway (HI-30) to Ka’anapali Parkway. While there are a few public parking lots between Ka’anapali Parkway and the beach, you’re almost sure to get a spot at the Whaler’s Village parking area. Be sure to get your parking ticket validated by buying something at one of the shops.

Best Beach for a Picnic: Hapuna Beach State Park, Big Island

The $5 entry fee to this 68-acre state park is well worth it, as it provides access to the largest snow-white beach on the island, and water so clear it can be tricky to determine where the sand meets the surf. Because of the clear water, coupled with an abundance of sea life, this a prime setting for snorkeling.

When you’re ready for that picnic, you can enjoy your stash of goodies on one of the many beachside picnic tables, or rent beach chairs and an umbrella from the Three Frogs Café, which also offers burgers, tacos, smoothies, and shaved ice. In addition, this concession stand rents snorkeling gear and boogie boards.

If you’re hoping to post up for awhile, A-frame shelters can be rented. These structures provide a screened room, sleeping platforms and a picnic table. In addition, shelter-renters gain access to a central pavilion featuring a range stove, refrigerator and tables, and the Comfort Station with showers (no hot water) and bathrooms.

For those looking to amp up the adventure, take a walk on the nearby Ala Kahaki Trail, which leads you past remote beaches and anchialine ponds, depending on how far you go.

Tip: While there is always a lifeguard on duty, this beach is exposed to the open ocean and can have surf conditions ranging from mild to fierce – check with the lifeguard before diving in.

How to Get There

On the Northwest shore, you’ll drive up Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway (HI-19), then turn onto Hapuna Beach Road. Signs will lead you to Hapuna Beach State Park.

Best Beach for Photos: Poipu Beach Park, Kauai

Once named “America’s Best Beach” by the Travel Channel, this iconic shore is composed of two golden-hued, crescent bays offering a natural wading pool ideal for little ones, and smooth waves on the western side of the beach ideal for surfing and boogie boarding.

While there are a few nearby hotels and restaurants, few structures are visible from the beach, making it a prime locale for photos that capture the mellow vibes of this rural tropical environment. For truly breathtaking photos walk out to Nukumoi Point – which separates the two crescents – where napping monk seals are regularly spotted. And if you’re visiting between December and April, have your camera ready for humpback whale sightings.

Amenities include a lifeguard, bathrooms, showers, and picnic tables.

How to Get There

From Koloa, take Poipu Road south, then turn onto Hoowili Road. You can park at a lot at the intersection of Hoowili and Hoone Road.

Best Black Sand Beach: Honokalani Beach, Maui

(also called Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach)

This small, volcanic crescent-shaped beach, located on the edge of Wai’anapanapa State Park, was deemed sacred by the Hawaiian people and is the source of many legends. The primary appeal is the stunning display of black sand that was created by a lava flow that cooled, hardened, and then fractured into miniscule pieces by the pressure of the waves thousands of years ago. Adding to the remarkable visuals are the bright green naupaka shrubs and turquoise waters that border the dark sacred sand.

Swimming isn’t recommended at Honokalanai Beach, as powerful surf and sneaky currents are prevalent. So swap your fins for a good camera, and capture the majesty of this otherworldly microcosm.

When you’re ready to move on from the beach, consider hiking in the park’s 122-acres, which include lava caves, wind-twisted plant life, Hawaii’s largest known heiau (temple), stone arches, and blow holes.

If you’re interested in folklore, check out the park’s Wai’anapanapa Caves where a Hawaiian princess was said to have hid from her cruel husband who found, and killed, her in the cave because of the glint of a feather her maid used to fan her. Certain times of year, small red shrimp fill the pool in the cave, creating the effect of blood-filled-water.

Tip: Wear shoes on the beach as the black sand can get HOT on a warm day.

How to Get There

From Hana, travel about three miles north on Hana Highway (HI-360) and take a right on Honokalani Road. When this road dead ends, take a left and follow it until it turns into the parking lot for the beach.

Best Green Sand Beach: Green Sand (Papakolea) Beach – Big Island

This olive-green beach creates the illusion that you’ve landed on an alien planet, as the slope of viridesccent sand melts into a turquoise sea. Then there’s the ancient cinder cone that the beach is carved from, which resembles the planet of Tatooine from Star Wars. This cinder cone belongs to the Mauna Loa volcano that spewed the olivine crystals that created the beach 50,000 years ago. Because these crystals are fairly heavy, they stayed put while the volcanic sand was washed away over time. Be sure to scoop up some sand to get an up-close view of the endless tiny, smooth crystals mixed with a hint of black sand and white shell shards.

It’s requested that visitors not take sand for a souvenir – only photos and memories. And be super cautious about swimming, staying out if there’s big surf, and being hyper-vigilant about rips. Because of these potential risks, children shouldn’t swim here.

Tip: Visit the beach early in the morning to not only beat the crowds, but the heat, as reaching the beach requires a 5-mile round trip hike, and there is no shade on the shore.

How to Get There

From Kona, take Hwy 11 toward Volcano Village until you reach the turnoff for South Point, between mile markers 69 and 70. Follow this road until you reach a harbor where you can park your car in the lot on the left and walk towards the beach until you hit a road that runs parallel to the ocean. Turn left (east) on this road and follow it for 2.5 miles until you reach the bluff above the beach.

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