It turns out that the new way to vacation is not so new after all.  Staycations – the new buzz term for vacationing locally – are gaining popularity every day.  Due to the current economic climate, families have been hard hit and the Staycation concept has become an easy way to get away, without wondering too far from home.

Spending quality time with family is most important.  Time doesn’t need to be spent away and doesn’t need to cost a lot of money. Check out your city’s local treasures.  Here in Los Angeles, there are many State Parks with good hiking trails where a family can pack a picnic lunch and hike in to enjoy it with some spectacular scenery.  With the heavy rains this year, some parks may even have small waterfalls (good for the amateur photographer).  Southern California has many beautiful beaches to take advantage of.  Stay for the day or camp overnight.  There are many great bike paths with beautiful scenery and this is a great way to sneak in some exercise for a healthy and fun filled day.  Santa Monica offers a bike path and beautiful beaches as well as family fun with games and rides on the pier.  They offer fishing too!

Lancaster hosts the annual California Poppy Festival in April and the whole family can spend a day joining in the fun of celebrating our state flower.  Or take advantage of the many fun and exciting theme parks that Southern California has to offer.  From Valencia down to San Diego, there are ten major parks to enjoy for the day.  And don’t forget to check online for discounts and coupons for Southern California residents and Auto Club members.  Most parks offer a significant discount – All you have to do is provide your zip code!

While it isn’t quite summer yet, you may still be able to find snow and skiing at Lake Arrowhead or Big Bear.  If you are looking for sun, Palm Springs is a two hour drive away, and you can take a ride on the Aerial Tramway and enjoy lunch with a view of the Coachella Valley.

Sun or snow, camping or beaches, theme parks or exercise, Southern California has everything to offer for the perfect Staycation!