Valerie Was Here https://valeriewashere.com/ Mon, 12 Oct 2026 05:59:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Morro Rock Sunset Views: Stress-Free Coastal Sunsets in Morro Bay 🌅 https://valeriewashere.com/morro-rock-sunset/ Sun, 11 Oct 2026 17:36:35 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5484 Looking for an unforgettable coastal sunset spot on California's Central Coast? Head to Morro Rock in Morro Bay. Just a short, easy drive from San Luis Obispo, this iconic 581-foot volcanic plug offers free parking, front-row oceanfront views, beach walking, and sea otter watching as the sun dips into the Pacific.

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]]> El Moro Elfin Forest in Los Osos: Free Boardwalk Hike & Morro Bay Views 🥾 https://valeriewashere.com/el-moro-elfin-forest/ Sun, 11 Oct 2026 02:36:17 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5482 Looking for a unique, free outdoor activity along California's Central Coast? Explore El Moro Elfin Forest in Los Osos. Perched along Morro Bay, this 90-acre natural preserve features miniature coast live oak trees, sandy trails leading to elevated boardwalks, sweeping views of Morro Rock, and peaceful natural surroundings.

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]]> Dinosaur Caves Park in Pismo Beach: Ocean Bluff Views, History & Family Fun 🦕 https://valeriewashere.com/dinosaur-caves-park-pismo/ Sat, 10 Oct 2026 15:35:58 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5481 Traveling along California's Central Coast? Take a break at Dinosaur Caves Park in Pismo Beach (Shell Beach). Perched on an 11-acre oceanfront bluff right off Highway 101, this scenic park offers sweeping Pacific views, walking trails, dinosaur-themed play area, and an intriguing history.

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]]> The Octopus’s Zen Garden Morro Bay: Public Art, Mosaics & Harbor Views 🐙🦦 https://valeriewashere.com/octopus-zen-garden-morro/ Fri, 09 Oct 2026 18:35:27 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5485 Quick Summary: Strolling along the Embarcadero in Morro Bay? Be sure to stop by Harbor Walk Plaza to experience The Octopus's Zen Garden. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, this outdoor art installation features colorful mosaics, climbable sculptures for kids, and gorgeous harbor views.

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]]> Courtyard San Luis Obispo Review: Central Location, Heated Pool & Comfortable Stay 🛏️ https://valeriewashere.com/courtyard-san-luis-obispo/ Thu, 08 Oct 2026 22:33:56 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5488 Planning a trip to California's Central Coast? Read my full review of the newly renovated Courtyard by Marriott San Luis Obispo. From its prime central location for exploring Morro Bay, Avila Beach, and Edna Valley to spacious rooms, a heated outdoor pool, and more, here is what to expect during your stay.

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]]> Avila Park in Avila Beach: Pirate-Themed Playground & Coastal Family Fun 🦜 https://valeriewashere.com/pirate-park-avila-beach/ Wed, 07 Oct 2026 18:32:22 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5487 Visiting Avila Beach with kids? Stop by Avila Park (affectionately known as Pirate Park) at 50 San Juan Street. Located in downtown Avila Beach near the pier and Central Coast Aquarium, this free pirate-themed park features imaginative play structures, expansive grassy lawns, picnic tables, and clean restrooms.

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]]> Visiting Avila Beach in the Fall: Uncrowded Shores, Pier Walks & Easy Parking 🌴 https://valeriewashere.com/avila-beach-fall/ Wed, 07 Oct 2026 07:49:35 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5486 Planning an autumn getaway to California's Central Coast? Autumn is one of the absolute best times to visit Avila Beach.

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]]> Nortiv 8 Hiking Boots Review – Budget-Friendly Outdoor Trail Footwear 🥾 https://valeriewashere.com/nortiv-8-hiking-boots/ Sun, 20 Sep 2026 22:34:41 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5425 Discover impressive trail performance without breaking the bank with Nortiv 8 hiking boots! Explore how durable waterproof construction, cushioned arch support, slip-resistant soles, and true-to-size fits make these budget-friendly boots rival options costing twice as much.

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]]> Benchmade Adira Mini Knife Review – Premium Travel Knife 🏕️ https://valeriewashere.com/benchmade-adira-mini/ Sun, 20 Sep 2026 00:15:37 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5384 Upgrade your outdoor gear setup with the Benchmade Adira Mini folding knife! Discover how corrosion-resistant materials, a secure ergonomic grip, and legendary Benchmade craftsmanship make this compact blade the ultimate travel companion for boating, fishing, and camping.

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]]> Dream Pairs Hiking Sandals Review – Comfortable & Practical Travel Footwear 🏕️ https://valeriewashere.com/dream-pairs-hiking-sandals/ Sat, 19 Sep 2026 04:21:43 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5240 Step into effortless outdoor adventures with Dream Pairs Hiking Sandals! Learn how zero break-in time, excellent arch support, versatile water-friendly designs, and lightweight packing make these affordable sandals a travel staple.

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]]> 500 Stickers: California Review – Fun Travel Stickers for All Ages 🌞 https://valeriewashere.com/500-stickers-california/ Mon, 14 Sep 2026 19:18:19 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5297 Celebrate Golden State style with 500 Stickers: California! See how 16 pages of high-quality, vibrant stickers make this easy-to-use book perfect for travel journals, luggage decorating, and road trip keepsakes for kids and adults alike.

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]]> Moon Best of California State Parks Review – Top 50 Golden State Parks Guide 🌞 https://valeriewashere.com/moon-california-state-parks/ Mon, 14 Sep 2026 04:01:37 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5331 Embark on an unforgettable Golden State adventure with Moon Best of California State Parks by Jenna Blough and Kayla Anderson! The detailed itineraries, expert local tips, and practical travel guidance make this guidebook an essential road trip companion for active explorers.

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]]> Route 66: 100 Years Book Review – The Ultimate Road Trip Coffee Table Guide 🛣️ https://valeriewashere.com/route-66-100-years/ Thu, 10 Sep 2026 19:45:28 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5312 Embark on the ultimate American road trip with this review of Route 66: 100 Years by Jim Hinckley! Take a look inside to see how stunning photography, fascinating historic lore, and classic roadside kitsch make this coffee table book an inspiring tribute to the Mother Road.

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]]> The Belamar Hotel Manhattan Beach Review: Boutique Vibes & Beach Convenience 🏖️ https://valeriewashere.com/belamar-hotel-manhattan-beach/ Mon, 31 Aug 2026 05:56:45 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5098 Experience coastal boutique charm with The Belamar Hotel Manhattan Beach, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. Explore how comfortable rooms, a heated pool, delicious on-site dining, and easy beach transit make this property a standout choice for both leisure and business stays.

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]]> Residence Inn Salinas Monterey Review: Spacious Suites Near Coastal California Destinations 🛏️ https://valeriewashere.com/residence-inn-salinas/ Sat, 01 Aug 2026 01:38:10 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5103 Experience spacious, apartment-style living in Monterey County at the Residence Inn Salinas Monterey. Explore how fully equipped kitchens, easy freeway access, and proximity to Carmel and Big Sur make this Marriott property ideal for extended business trips and family getaways.

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]]> The Grand Idyllwild Lodge Review: An Honest Look ⛰️ https://valeriewashere.com/grand-idyllwild/ Thu, 21 May 2026 04:46:11 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5048 Get an honest, first-person review of The Grand Idyllwild Lodge in California, covering everything from the stunning Craftsman architecture to room tech realities. Discover the pros, cons, and essential booking tips for this unique mountain boutique hotel before planning your escape.

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]]> Spring House Resort Review: A Vintage Mineral Pool Getaway in Desert Hot Springs 🌞 https://valeriewashere.com/spring-house-resort/ Fri, 08 May 2026 04:40:26 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=5008 Spring House Resort in Desert Hot Springs is a charming, vintage-style "spa-tel" that offers a peaceful, high-value escape with 24-hour access to three beautiful mineral pools.

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]]> The Iconic Cabazon Dinosaurs Roadside Attraction 🦕🦖 https://valeriewashere.com/cabazon-dinosaurs-roadside-attraction/ https://valeriewashere.com/cabazon-dinosaurs-roadside-attraction/#comments Thu, 07 May 2026 00:19:06 +0000 http://valeriewashere.com/?p=548 I have visited this iconic desert landmark countless times, and I can tell you that the Cabazon Dinosaurs remain the ultimate Southern California roadside attraction for families and Pee-wee’s Big Adventure fans alike.

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]]> https://valeriewashere.com/cabazon-dinosaurs-roadside-attraction/feed/ 36 Marina Del Rey Hotel for a California Getaway ⛵ https://valeriewashere.com/marina-del-rey-hotel/ Mon, 01 Apr 2024 15:33:00 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=3542 Whether you are a local looking for an easy getaway or an out of towner looking for a California experience, the Marina del Rey Hotel is the perfect spot. 

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]]> Hyatt Regency Monterey Resort ⛳ https://valeriewashere.com/hyatt-regency-monterey-resort/ Fri, 29 Mar 2024 20:35:21 +0000 https://valeriewashere.com/?p=3211 Monterey County has become a favorite destination and I find myself there at least once a year. My most recent trip was to the Hyatt Regency Montery and the experience was great!

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