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Fantastic geological formations, archeological sites, and sweeping desert vistas are only a backdrop for the wildlife found in the largest state park in the continental US. Golden eagles soar above, roadrunners dart across the paths, and bighorn sheep dot the mountainsides. In springtime a dazzling array of wildflowers create a magic show of colors across the desert. Stop by the visitor center to pick up a map that marks hiking trails, sites of Native American pictographs, and the park’s best viewpoints.

Several endangered species and abundant wildlife thrive at the largest US Marine Corps base and amphibious training facility in the country.

Surfers enjoy the reef break at Cardiff, while RV campers kick back at a beachside campground. The San Elijo Lagoon offers hiking trails through an ecological reserve.

In the 1880s, Captain John Frazier discovered that the water here had the same mineral content as a spa in Karlsbad, Bohemia. Curative spas attracted the health-conscious and gave life to the village.

The wealthiest community among North County’s beach towns, Del Mar is filled with sidewalk cafés, restaurants, and boutiques.

Voted one of the “Top 10 Surf Towns in the US” by Surfer magazine, local highlights include the Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat and Hermitage and the Quail Botanical Gardens.

When Fred Coleman discovered gold here in 1869, scores of prospectors poured into the region. The boom was over in less than five years, but some stayed on in this charming little community surrounded by oak and pine forests high in the Cuyamaca Mountains. Now this designated Historical District is filled with B&Bs, and is a popular weekend getaway. Julian is also well-known for its apple orchards (see Julian).

Spectacular and rich, with a gorgeous location and elegant restaurants and shops, this is an ideal destination. However, La Jollans do not sit around idly basking in their good fortune. Just north of the village along Torrey Pines Drive, some of the most prestigious research institutions in the world, many underwritten by La Jolla’s residents, contribute to the good of humanity. Across the freeway, an area known as the Golden Triangle has become the new telecommunications Silicon Valley (see Tijuana).

This theme park is devoted to the plastic brick. Little ones enjoy the hands-on activities, rides, and models (see Legoland).

The 21st century hasn’t yet hit this sleepy little town. Sidewalk-less roads haven’t changed in decades.