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Preview
By Stephen Kirchner, Editor & Publisher
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elcome to Byways annual Ocean Views issue, featuring destinations on the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean. First stop is Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It’s fun times on the beach, as we explore what brings 20 million visitors here annually, making Myrtle Beach one of the major centers of tourism in the United States. It features 60 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, exciting attractions, and celebrity-designed golf courses. Explore the boardwalk for a beachfront view of the Atlantic Ocean, or enjoy some of the best attractions, restaurants, and shopping Myrtle Beach offers. Bill Graves is in Cape Canaveral, Florida, standing in the shadow of an Atlas V Rocket. It’s 19-stories high. He’s at the Visitor Complex at the Kennedy Space Center. Named for President John F. Kennedy, the Center is actually an installation that was the launch site for every U.S. manned space flight beginning in 1958. It’s 34-miles long and six-miles wide. Next, Alabama’s beaches. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer 32 miles of sugar-white sandy beaches to the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Water activities include kayaking the Alabama Back Bay Blueway, and fishing on one of the area’s charter boats. On land, build a sandcastle with expert guidance, or explore the 6,150-acre Gulf State Park by foot, bike or Segway. After an 18-month COVID-inspired moratorium, Pat Woods was delighted to find Holland America’s 7day California coastal cruise out of San Diego. Even better, round-trip motorcoach transportation for their group from Arizona took them from shore to ship and return without visiting an airport. Pat says overall service on the the ship, the Koningsdam was Byways 4
incredible. The smiling crew’s strong work ethic never wavered. The ship docked on Pier 27 in San Francisco for two days, with Golden Gate bridge views on the port side and the Oakland Bay bridge on the starboard side. Another highlight was the motorcoach excursion to Muir Woods National Monument, just 30 minutes from Fisherman’s Wharf. Then there are those who just want to stay in San Diego. We’ve got you covered. With seven destinations in one, why leave? The beach or the mountains? What about the desert instead? Small town feel or big city vibes? Family friendly or action-packed nightlife? It’s your choice. In Northern California, just minutes from downtown San Francisco, we discover the beautiful beachfront town of Pacifica. It’s the perfect destination for an outdoor, three-day getaway. Enjoy a seaside lunch at Nick’s and be sure to order the signature grilled crab sandwich. Stroll the many local shops at Rockaway Beach. Walk to Linda Mar State Beach to watch surfers and paddle boarders test their skills. Then venture up to the top of Mori Point for the feeling that you’re “ontop of the world”, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. In What’s Happening, there’s a new view in New Orleans. Vue Orleans features the city’s first 360degree view of the Mississippi River and the New Orleans landscape. Touchless interactive exhibits feature legendary New Orleans figures, such as the Soul Queen of New Orleans, Irma Thomas, and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. How did the Kentucky Derby become the beloved and world-renowned race that it is today? Kentucky Derby Museum in Louisville answers that question in its newest permanent exhibit, This is the Kentucky Derby! We hope you enjoy this issue of Byways.
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Volume 39, Issue No. 3 2022 On the Cover. Waves from the Atlantic Ocean crest against the sandy beaches in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Photo courtesy Amanda Frank on Unsplash. For more on Ocean Views, turn to to page 10.
Features Fun Times in Myrtle Beach .................................................................................................................. 10 Cape Canaveral, Florida ..................................................................................................................... 18 Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, Alabama’s Beaches ............................................................................ 22 Cruising the California Coast............................................................................................................... 28 San Diego, Seven Destinations in One ............................................................................................... 34 Three Days in Pacifica ........................................................................................................................ 42
Departments Byways Instant Connect ........................................................................................................................ 3 Byways Preview .................................................................................................................................... 4 Traveling the Highways & Byways with Bill Graves............................................................................. 18 Advertiser/Sponsored Content Index .................................................................................................. 55
What’s Happening Experience New Orleans History with a Vue....................................................................................... 48 This is the Kentucky Derby!................................................................................................................. 52
Coming in Future Issues Future issues of Byways will feature Rivers & Lakes, Great American Roads, Dams & Bridges and more. . . .
Up Next: Rivers & Lakes At right. The Yellowstone River just before the Upper Falls in Montana. Photo courtesy Miguel Hermoso Cuesta & CC BY-SA 4.0.
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yrtle Beach, South Carolina is 60 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, exciting attractions, and celebrity-designed golf courses. It is home to high-rise hotels, resorts, oceanfront condos, and vacation rentals. Explore the boardwalk for a beachfront view of the Atlantic Ocean, or enjoy some of the best attractions, restaurants, and shopping Myrtle Beach has to offer at Broadway at the Beach. Myrtle Beach is one of the major centers of tourism in the United States. The city’s warm subtropical climate, miles of beaches, 86 golf courses, and 1,800 restaurants attract over 20 million visitors each year, making Myrtle Beach one of the most visited destinations in the country. Nearly 100,000 visitors a year are estimated to come Byways 12
from overseas, with tourists from Canada, Germany and the United Kingdom.
History Located along the historic King’s Highway (U.S. Route 17), the region was once home to the Waccamaw people. During the colonial period, the Whither family settled in the area, and a prominent local waterway, Wither’s Swash, is named in their honor. Originally called alternately “New Town” or “Withers”, the area was targeted for development as a resort community by Franklin Burroughs, whose sons completed a railroad to the beach and the first inn, Seaside Inn. His widow named the new community Myrtle Beach after the local wax-myrtle
location of Myrtle Beach mitigates daytime summer heat somewhat compared to inland areas of South Carolina. Myrtle Beach has mostly mild winters of short duration.
The Grand Strand So named by a newspaperman of the 1940s, the name has stuck, and it describes some 60 miles of wide, safe, beautiful, sandy beaches. With all there is to do along the Grand Strand, visitors regularly report that the #1 reason they visit Myrtle Beach is for the beach itself. With more millions of visitors coming annually, it’s a good thing Myrtle Beach beaches remain friendly and safe, clean and inviting. Early morning beach walkers enjoy year-round quiet times as the sun rises over the Atlantic Ocean, and latenight strollers, flashlights in hand, marvel at the spectacular moonrises and the haunting effect of a night-time visit. Mid-day, especially in the summer months, the beach takes on a new energy while families and singles, young and old, relish in America’s favorite pastime.
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk Opened in 2010, the boardwalk has been recognized as the nation’s #3 boardwalk by National Geographic and one of the best U.S. boardwalks by Travel & Leisure magazine. The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel opened at the boardwalk in May 2011, and is a 200-foot observation wheel, similar to a ferris wheel, with glass gondolas that look over the Atlantic Ocean.
shrubs. After the railroad was finished, employees of the lumber and railroad company would take train flatcars down to the beach area on their free weekends, becoming the first Grand Strand tourists. The summer season is long, hot, and humid in Myrtle Beach. Average daytime highs are from 83 to 91°F and average night-time lows are near 70°F. The coastal Byways 13
The area is home to numerous golf courses and minigolf courses along the Grand Strand and further inland. Myrtle Beach has been called the “Golf Capital of the World” because of its roughly 100 golf courses, the record 4.2 million rounds played, and many miniature golf courses. The majority of the area’s golf courses are public. Explore the heart of the Grand Strand from its fivestar entertainment to its award-winning restaurants. Make plans to see some of the great theater shows in the area as they dive into their new seasons, or head to the oceanfront boardwalk. During the day you can beat the heat by heading to the beach or one of three waterparks. For those who are feeling a bit nostalgic, head to Legends in Concert, the Hollywood Wax Museum, or even Wonderworks. Strolling through Broadway at the Beach, Barefoot Landing or the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is free and a fun way to spend a summer day. Many events, including live music and festivals, are free and open to the public. Free fireworks shows throughout the year cap off a perfect beach day! Broadway features a wide range of outstanding activities for all ages, and there is always something new and exciting to do, including fireworks and special events throughout the year. Byways 14
Broadway at the Beach While you are at Broadway at the Beach, make sure to check out the Broadway Grand Prix, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Topgolf for those looking for a bit of excitement. Uncover shopping treasures galore as you stroll the exciting world of Broadway. This colorful, relaxed, and enjoyable experience features one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques as well as nationally recognized names like Ron Jon Surf Shop, Savannah Bee Company, Earthbound Trading Company, and more. Looking for great tastes? You’ll never go hungry at Broadway at the Beach. With an incredible selection of more than twenty inviting restaurants such as Wahlburgers, Hard Rock Café, Señor Frog’s, Margaritaville, Dave & Buster’s, and The Grumpy Monk, as well as a range of light-bite eateries, it’s easy to satisfy everyone’s appetite
Ripley’s Aquarium The aquarium is an 85,000 square foot, multilevel collection of wonders of the sea. From the large tanks to small tanks, exhibits are interactive, educational, and fun for the whole family. In addition to the yearround sea life exhibits, they have seasonal and traveling exhibits so that each time you visit you can experience something new.
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The aquarium also offers exciting experiences such as Diving with Sharks, the Stingray Experience, Behind-the-Scenes Tour, Sleep with the Sharks, Glass Bottom Boat Adventure, Birthday Parties, Camps, Live Shows, and more.
Myrtle Beach SkyWheel The centerpiece of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel offers soaring panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. When it opened in 2011, it forever changed the downtown Myrtle Beach skyline. Standing 200 feet above the ocean, the SkyWheel features 42 climate-controlled, enclosed gondolas, each seating up to 6 passengers. Aside from the world-class views and recreational fishing, the many Myrtle Beach piers also offer a variety of dining and entertainment options. From simple hot dog stands to full-service restaurants, vacationers can find something to suit every appetite. Many of the piers also offer live entertainment several nights each week during the summer months. Open-air rooftop bars and covered dance floors keep the atmosphere lively after the sun goes down featuring smaller acoustic acts and high-energy dance Byways 16
and rock ‘n’ roll bands. Younger vacationers taking a break from the sun and surf may enjoy endless varieties of ice cream and frozen treats without ever leaving the oceanfront.
Alabama Theatre One of the Grand Strand’s favorite entertainment attractions, Alabama Theatre offers area visitors an evening of singing, dancing, and comedy. Opened by country superstar group Alabama over 20 years ago, Alabama Theatre is a popular attraction bringing visitors from all over to experience the musical variety show. With One The Show, The South’s Grandest Christmas Show, and guest entertainers, Alabama Theatre has something for everyone.
Carolina Opry The award-winning show blends two hours of highenergy music, comedy and dance in a luxurious theater complete with state-of-the-art lighting, sound and special effects. Though elements in the shows change throughout the year, one element remains constant: the level of world-class talent and production values that visitors have learned to expect on the Calvin Gilmore stage.
Featuring a cast of over 35 of the nation’s most talented performers, this variety show spans all genres to bring you the best hits of yesterday, today and everything in between.
Barefoot Landing The excitement is building with Dockside Village, a walkable restaurant district featuring Lucy Buffett’s LuLu’s. Set along the Intracoastal Waterway, there is free day docking for boats and Dockside Village adds a whole new level of excitement with a children’s playground and amphitheater showcasing year round live entertainment and events. At Barefoot Landing you’ll browse to your heart’s content as you discover a wealth of unexpected treasures at one of the many national retail shops such as Ron Jon Surf Shop, Chico’s, Sunglass Hut, Francesca’s and Earthbound Trading. Dining at Barefoot includes everything from upscale offerings with scenic waterway views at Greg Norman and Flying Fish, to local restaurants specializing in pizza, barbecue, burgers, and seafood.
One of the largest piers on the East Coast, Apache Fishing Pier boasts a covered band shell and dance floor halfway down the pier. With nightly live entertainment from 8-11pm in the summer season, vacationers can dance over the ocean and beneath the stars for a truly memorable experience. Featuring the Pier House Restaurant and an open-air rooftop bar, 2nd Avenue Pier’s dining and entertainment options offer something for everyone. The second-floor restaurant features creative coastal cuisine while the upstairs bar offers a relaxed atmosphere with live acoustic music and spectacular views of the coast. For more information on visiting Myrtle Beach, visit https://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/groups
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Traveling the Highways & Byways with Bill Graves Cape Canaveral, Florida F lorida is home to 17 million people. Last night, Friday, I think most of them were driving around Orlando. Traffic was a mess; I performed my role as a tourist by contributing to it.
Today, I’m not far from Orlando, but what a contrast. I am on a desolate piece of beach, certainly the longest such beach in Florida, if not the East Coast. This is Cape Canaveral. It appears on the map as a long island. I am standing in the afternoon shadow of an Atlas V Rocket. It’s 19-stories high. It took two years to
build. By this time tomorrow, it will have done what it was built to do and will have traveled thousands of miles to do it. Its engines and boosters, generating over two millions pounds of thrust, will send its satellite payload on a brief journey that will end 22,236 miles above the Earth. That’s 100 times higher than the orbit of the Space Shuttle. The whole operation, from launch to spacecraft separation, will take three hours, one minute and 23.2 seconds. It’s hard to comprehend that this massive rocket will disappear tomorrow in less than a minute. Everything that we deal with on Earth – excepting organic material that nature consumes – will end up
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somewhere, even if it’s a land fill. But this piece of Space Age hardware will just vanish, leaving no sign, but a scorched launch pad, that it ever existed. Final fabrication of the Atlas V is done in Decatur, Alabama, with parts coming from California, Texas, Florida and Switzerland. I am here as a guest of United Launch Alliance, a private company that now performs many of the launches in the United States. The launch sites are here at the Cape, and at Vandenberg Air Force Base north of Los Angeles. The intended orbit of the vehicle determines from where it is launched. Following retirement from our space shuttle program, NASA has gotten out of the launch business. Private enterprise is picking up the slack. But NASA wrote the book on the subject, primarily manned space flight, and will always have a presence here, personified today in the Visitor Complex at the Kennedy Space Center. Named for President John F. Kennedy, the Center is actually an installation that was the launch site for every U.S. manned space flight beginning in 1958. It’s 34-miles long and six-miles wide. Byways 19
The Center is now the focus for our civilian space program using three pads at the adjoining Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The Visitor Complex recently celebrated 50 years of space history. Aside from two IMAX theaters, the Shuttle Launch Experience ride, and other theme-park like attractions, it offers a bus tour of the whole installation. The bus stops at the Apollo/ Saturn V
Center, where a Saturn V rocket – like the one that sent our guys to the moon – fills the building. Were it not here, there would be room for a football game. Driving by the Vehicle Assembly Building, one of the largest buildings in the world, the bus driver told us that American flag painted on the side of it is 20 stories tall. “Each star is six feet across,” he said. At a pond we watched an alligator slide into the water. Seeing one of Earth’s oldest creatures here at the Cape, put a period perspective on this place: the site of man’s greatest scientific achievements.
About the author: After seeing much of the world as a career naval officer, Bill Graves decided, after he retired, to take a closer look at the United States. He has been roaming the country for 20 years, much of it in a motorhome with his dog Rusty. He lives in Rancho Palos Verdes, California and is the author of On the Back Roads, Discovering Small Towns of America. He can be reached at Roadscribe@aol.com. Byways 20
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ulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama offer 32 miles of sugar-white sandy beaches to the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, to such amazing outdoor offerings as the 6,150-acre Gulf State Park. Alabama’s beaches are ready to welcome you when you’re ready to travel. The area includes the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in addition to the unincorporated area of Fort Morgan on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Most of the two cities and all of the Fort Morgan peninsula are on a 27,000-acre island that boasts 32 miles of white sandy beaches along the turquoise waters of the northernmost coast of the Gulf of Mexico, plus another 400,000 acres of freshwater lakes, rivers, bays and coves. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are located in Baldwin County on the southernmost tip of Alabama between Mobile, AL. (50 miles to the northwest) and Pensacola, FL. (35 miles to the east). Easily accessible from Interstate 10 via Highway 59 or the Beach Express, most of the two cities are on the island with geographical borders of the Intercoastal Waterway to the north, the Gulf of Mexico to the south, Mobile Bay to the west and Perdido Bay to the east. Byways 24
Family-Friendly Atmosphere These are family-friendly beach communities and are spring break destinations catered to families. With easy beach access and amenities, the area’s condos and vacation rental houses are popular lodging options for families.
What to Do Take a stroll on the beach and organize a romantic picnic through Southern Charm Picnic Company. Owned by a mother-daughter duo, Southern Charm offers three picnic packages and personalized unique add-ons, including a beach tent or yoga session. Visitors can also choose from unforgettable Signature Experiences such as a dolphin and wildlife kayak experience, animal encounters at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, or guided pier walks at the Gulf State Park Nature Center.
Surf and Turf Activities The destination offers tons of fun things to do both in the water and on land. Water activities include kayaking the Alabama Back Bay Blueway, fishing on one of the area’s charter boats, taking a trip with Cruisin’ Tikis (a tiki hut crossed with a water vessel), and strapping on a mask of a different kind to snorkel the reefs and catch a glimpse of the incredible marine life. On
land, enjoy unique activities like building a sandcastle with expert guidance during a session with Sand Castle University, exploring the 6,150-acre Gulf State Park by foot, bike, Segway, or playing a round on one of several mini- (or full size) golf courses.
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Birding Gulf Shores is a popular destination for birders thanks to its prime location along the Mississippi Flyway migration route for birders. As part of a larger statewide birding initiative, the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail features six birding loops totaling 200 miles along the Gulf Coast. The South Alabama Land Trust has cited more than 370 bird species along the Alabama Gulf Coast, including hawks, reddish egrets, ruby-throated hummingbirds, swallows, tanagers, thrushes, vireos, warblers and more. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and Fort Morgan are two epic birdwatching locations in the area. Download a map of the Alabama Birding Trail, grab your binoculars and start your adventure!
Mail-Order Items Those unable to visit Alabama’s beaches in person can still enrich their senses of taste and smell with specialty mail-order items. If you’re wanting the delicious taste of the coast delivered to your door, consider ordering oysters. Based in Bayou La Batre, Byways 26
Murder Point Oysters harvests and ships oysters in counts of 50, 100 or 200. These oysters – known as “Butter Babies” – have a rich and creamy taste and a light metallic finish with what tastes like a drop of butter.
Soy Candle Tin, a tribute to the region’s famed alcoholic drink that’s more like a milkshake. To learn more about the area, visit https://www.gulfshores.com t
For those who prefer a nonedible gift, Bon Secour Candle Company features such incredibly scented candles as the Beach Baby Soy Candle Tin, and Bushwhacker Byways 27
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fter an 18-month COVID-inspired cruise moratorium, husband Rob and I were delighted to find a Holland America 7-day California coastal cruise out of San Diego.
Motorcoach Travel Even better, Metho Travelers, a Sun City, AZ travel agency specializing in senior travel, arranged roundtrip motorcoach transportation for the 353-mile drive from Sun City to the San Diego port. This eliminated dreaded airport stress. To board Holland America Line’s Koningsdam ship, all guests and crew needed a passport, original vaccination card, negative COVID test within 48 hours of sailing, plus a boarding pass. In addition, masks were required in public on the ship for crew and guests. Because the 2,600-passenger ship carried only 1,500 guests with no children under age 12, we had a nice choice of cabins and a quiet cruise. (Now children five and older can sail if fully vaccinated.) When our motorcoach arrived at the San Diego cruise terminal, our travel agent hired porters to take checked luggage directly from the bus onto the ship. Byways 30
With all required documents in hand, embarkation was like an expertly choreographed ballet. Smiling faces greeted us warmly as we moved from one station to another. A short time later, our checked luggage was promptly delivered to our cabin. As expected, we found several changes as Holland America and other cruise lines transition from printed menus and schedules to digital communications. Guests were urged to download the Navigator app on their smart phones and tablets as well as use it on their cabin TVs. Although the Navigator app challenged some guests, the astute front desk crew was available 24/7 to help. We were pleased to learn there was a daily printed activity schedule available. Many guests carried this with them while on the ship.
Aboard the Koningsdam The Koningsdam has several new alternate restaurants, but menus were not posted outside or in our cabin. We learned to read menus on our cabin TV before calling 88 to make reservations—which was easier than using the Navigator app. New upscale alternate restaurants such as Rudi’s Sel de Mar (seafood) were so popular it was difficult to get a dinner reservation. Restaurant menus changed—the left side (Daily or
“Anytime Menu”) is gone. Several new menus had up charges for popular items such as steaks and shrimp cocktails.
On-board Dining The former Lido Buffet, now called Lido Market, has the same mouthwatering array of breakfast, lunch and dinner items as before. But now crew servers place the food items you select on your plate. The main dining room on decks 2-3 is lighter, brighter and with a more open, friendly vibe. Old heavy drapes are gone, providing prime seating for tables near windows. Overall, onboard prices were substantially higher, with an additional 18% gratuity for beverages and alternate restaurant meals. However, we heard few complaints. Loyal Holland America repeat guests were happy to be cruising again. Lunch at the upscale Pinnacle Grille, known for delicious steaks, seafood and elegant dessert was $15, while dinner was $39. Byways 31
We chose Anytime Dining and sat with different guests every night. Most guests were from California (including San Diego) or Arizona. A popular topic was sharing happy memories about past Holland America cruises and how those ships compared to the Koningsdam we were on. As in past cruises, overall service on the Koningsdam was incredible. The smiling crew’s strong work ethic never wavered. We would rate service from our Indonesian cabin stewards BangBang and Ita at 25 on a scale of 1 to 10. Front desk staff and food service also rated highly. Built in 2016 and renovated in 2018, the Koningsdam had a youthful vibrant feel. A plethora of music, bars and entertainment venues line “Music Walk” on Deck 2 aft. Music ranged from a classical string quartet to Rolling Stones favorites, as well as BB King’s Blues, Lincoln Center Stage, and Billboard Onboard. The Neil Diamond tribute in the bi-level World Stage Theater was a big hit. Byways 32
San Francisco Docking Our ship docked on Pier 27 in San Francisco for two days. It was delightful to enjoy our morning coffee and made-to-order breakfast omelet in the Lido Market eatery while gazing through the huge windows at the Golden Gate bridge on the port side or the Oakland Bay bridge on the starboard side. We also enjoyed a view of the landmark Coit Tower. For the highlight of our cruise, we chose an excursion motorcoach trip to Muir Woods National Monument, just 30 minutes from Fisherman’s Wharf. After crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, the bus passed through Marin County’s natural beauty. We marveled at Sausalito’s gorgeous ocean scenery and gazed in awe at pricey homes clinging to cliffs.
Muir Woods Although we had visited Muir Woods before, we never tire of the fragrant, clean, piney scent of gigantic Coastal Redwoods. These giant 258-foot trees are the tallest living things on earth. Their
massive height reminds me of an outdoor cathedral where sunlight filters through the branches. Walking the boardwalk among these cherished giants is pure joy. The fresh, earthy scent and peaceful environment are great for the soul. Savvy visitors wear comfortable walking shoes and bring rain gear when appropriate. Muir Woods $15 admission fee may not be included in the tour fare, so bring your National Park pass if you have one. https://www.nps.gov/ muwo/index.htm The Koningsdam provided all the usual shipboard activities in addition to wine blending plus Jewish and Catholic religious services.
Guests were compliant about wearing masks in public areas of the ship. We heard nothing about unruly guests or Covid outbreaks. Too soon it was time to say farewell to new friends and crew. Thanks to the well-trained crew and our savvy travel agents, disembarking from the ship was a breeze. Once again, hired porters transferred heavy checked bags from the cruise terminal directly to the motorcoach. By 9 am our entire group of 48 and their luggage were back on the coach heading home to Arizona. www.hollandamerica.com
About the Author: Pat Woods is a widely published Arizona-based travel writer who urges readers to SKI (spend the kids inheritance) on a cruise!
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ith vacations, it always seems to be about trade-offs and choices. The beach or the mountains? What about the desert instead? Small town feel or big city vibes? Family friendly or action-packed nightlife? Arts and culture offerings or outdoor activities? When it comes to San Diego, travelers don’t have to choose. It’s all right there. As the most biodiverse region in the country, San Diego has the beaches, bays, mountains, lakes and deserts within a short drive. But it is not just about the landscape. San Diego can deliver a variety of experiences. Here is how to have it all in just one vacation.
1. Beaches and Bays Even along its 70-miles of coastline, San Diego delivers diversity. For those looking for high-end accommodations and fashionable restaurants coupled with pristine sandy beaches and to-die-for views, La Jolla is the place to go. Byways 36
Just south of La Jolla is Pacific Beach, which offers expansive beaches and a boardwalk along with a nightlife that will appeal to those who want a plethora of party options along la playa. For a more laidback, classic beach town vibe, visitors can head a little farther south to Ocean Beach to enjoy funky bars while surveying souvenir, surf and antique shops.
2. Lakes While San Diego’s beaches and bays often get the attention, the region is also a land of lakes, with 20 freshwater lakes and reservoirs. One local favorite is Lake Murray in the centrally located Mission Trails Regional Park. Fishing is at its best December through September when black crappie, bass, bluegill and catfish abound. But for those uninterested in catching their own dinner, there are options to motorboat, rowboat, kayak or pedal boat. Located just 25 minutes northeast from downtown San Diego is the San Vicente Reservoir, the city’s
largest. There are places to picnic and barbecue, but the real draw is fishing as the clearwater reservoir is home to crappie, sunfish, channel catfish and Florida strain largemouth bass. It is also a great spot for boating, kayaking, waterskiing and wakeboarding.
3. Mountains For those looking for the rustic feel of a mountain retreat, San Diego’s East County provides majestic ranges to explore. Located less than an hour from downtown San Diego is the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, which is home to more than 100 miles of hiking trails, many open to horseback riders, as well as campgrounds and picnic sites. On a clear day, the park’s highest viewpoint, Cuyamaca Peak (6,512 feet), reveals views of Mexico, mountain ranges near Los Angeles and wide expanses of desert.
A little farther east is the pine-studded Laguna Mountains, located within the Cleveland National Forest’s 8,600-acre spread. It offers opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and mountain climbing during the summer months and sledding and tobogganing in the winter.
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Deserts
The San Diego region also offers up the stark and dramatic beauty of the desert for visitors to explore. To the east is the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California’s largest state park. Filled with sweeping landscapes of cacti and other unique desert vegetation, the park is also home to roadrunners, golden eagles, kit foxes, desert iguanas and lizards.
boasts a number of small towns for those looking to escape the hectic pace of city life. To the east there is the historic town of Julian, which dates back more than a century and was home to the only gold rush in Southern California. The town is
During the spring, the dry rugged landscape is transformed by winter rains into a kaleidoscope of colorful flowers. For those looking for more pampering, the nearby desert community of Borrego Springs is home to a number of hotels and resorts, including La Casa del Zoro, which offers high-end accommodations, swimming pools, a spa, tennis and pickle ball courts, and yoga sessions.
5. Small Town San Diego might be the country’s eighth largest city, but the region Byways 39
known for its apple pies, quaint shops, art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and charming hotels and inns. For those looking for small town beach feel, Encinitas to the north is worth checking out as it harkens back to the historic Highway 101 beach culture of yesteryear. Its main street features highend shops, chic restaurants and coffee shops while its nearby beaches are among some of the most coveted in the region.
6. Urban For the more metropolitan-type traveler, downtown San Diego offers all the hustle, bustle and culture they could desire. The historic Gaslamp Quarter is home to a diverse lineup of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues as well as spas, art galleries and artisan shops. Nearby Little Italy is perfect for any urban enthusiast with its lively neighborhood feel fueled by outdoor cafés, international restaurants, craft breweries, wineries, art galleries, unique shops, boutique hotels, and the festive Piazza della Famiglia.
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7. International But the most distinctive destination that the region has to offer is that of Baja California, Mexico — allowing visitors the chance for a two-nation vacation. A short drive or trolley ride from downtown San Diego is the U.S.-Mexico border providing access to
Tijuana, Rosarito, Ensenada and Guadalupe Valley, a cluster of cities known for their rich artistic and culinary offerings. Tijuana is an energetic hub of activity day and night with duty-free shopping, Mexican cuisine and a tremendous arts and culture scene — highlighted by the Tijuana Cultural Center. Rosarito is a resort community known for its beaches, oceanfront hotels, aquatic adventures, shopping, seafood dining and nightlife. Ensenada, which is a 90-minute drive from San Diego, offers breathtaking ocean vistas as well as taco shops, seafood carts, craft breweries and mescal and margarita bars. Just outside Ensenada is the Valle De Guadalupe, considered the Napa Valley of Mexico as it produces 90% of the country’s wine and features over 100 wineries. It also home to outstanding restaurants, serving gourmet farm-fresh cuisine and local seafood.
For more information on San Diego’s offerings, including exciting vacation packages, visit the San Diego Tourism Authority’s website at https://www.sandiego.org
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ocated just 15 minutes from San Francisco, the beautiful beachfront town of Pacifica is the perfect destination for an outdoor, three-day getaway. For the best values, visitors are advised to opt for a mid-week visit during the busy summer months. Otherwise, the spring, fall and winter are lovely, quieter times to get lost in all that Pacifica has to offer for a weekend road trip. While there are many attractions and things to do in Pacifica, it’s important to build in plenty of quiet time to unplug, relax and rejuvenate. So, take it easy and understand that this list of suggestions for three perfect days in Pacifica is merely a summary of some visitors’ favorite pastimes. Whether staying for the day or an extended visit, Pacifica is the perfect mini-vacation destination.
Day One Check into one of seven hotels, there’s something for everyone’s taste and budget. Byways 44
Enjoy a seaside lunch at Nick’s and be sure to order the signature grilled crab sandwich or one of the hand-cut steaks. Stroll the many local shops at Rockaway Beach for great treasures and local delicacies or visit the Pacifica Coastside Museum at the Little Brown Church in the Sharp Park District for an overview of Pacifica’s rich history. Open on Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday from 1pm to 4pm. To rejuvenate, take a brief power nap at the hotel or on one of Pacifica’s many beaches, weather permitting. Have a pre-dinner glass of wine or a flight of proprietor Beth Lemke’s favorite blends at A Grape in the Fog. Book a table with spectacular sunset views and dinner at the Moonraker Restaurant, Pacifica’s finest beachfront dining establishment.
Day Two First thing in the morning, head out to the Pacifica Pier with fishing gear, tackle and bait. As a public pier, a fishing license isn’t required and fishing is free. According to Pier Fishing in California, no other pier in the state yields the number of fish, nor the quality of fish, than the Pacifica Pier.
For a hearty breakfast, check out the weekend menu at Ash’s Vallemar Station, which features large portions of the best, freshest fare. Hike/walk the gentle path of Devils Slide Trail. Interpretive signage and stunning views of the Pacific are the focus. Once back from a leisurely stroll, stop off at Humble Sea Brewing Co. for a local brew and quick bite. After lunch, take a short walk to Linda Mar State Beach to watch surfers and paddle boarders test their skill at mastering one of the most revered surfing spots in Northern California. The afternoon beckons for gazing out upon the ocean where several whale sightings have been noted as well as the playful routines of porpoises and dolphins, which can be seen playing offshore. Tip: the whale watch point at Rockaway Beach in front of the Moonraker statue displays interpretive information. For dinner, head to Puerto 27 Peruvian Kitchen and
Pisco Bar and be sure to sample a variety of menu items, tapas style as well as their signature Pisco Sour cocktail. Check out who’s performing in town at https://pacificaperformances.org. The Mildred Owen Concert Hall features everything from opera and tango to blues and folk…weekends only.
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Another favorite entertainment spot in Pacifica is the local theatre group, which offers year-round performing arts that include revivals of favorite plays and musicals as well as some contemporary productions. For show dates and time, go to www.pacificaspindriftplayers.org.
Day Three Enjoy breakfast (or lunch) at Breakers in Rockaway Beach where choices range from healthy to homey. Outdoor seating is available. After breakfast, head out to one of three Golden Gate National Recreation Areas: Mori Point is an easy hike that takes you right along the levy of the Sharp Park Golf Course on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. Venture up to the top of Mori Point for the feeling that you’re “on-top of the world”. Milagra Ridge offers impressive views of the coastal bluffs of Pacifica and the vast ocean that hugs the coastline. Hikers will enjoy and learn through the interpretive/educational signs of the Nike Missile sites that lived on property long ago.
more experienced hiker”. In 1769, a scouting party led by Gaspar de Portola became the first Europeans to see San Francisco Bay from this ridgetop. A monument marks the approximate location. Wherever you end up walking or hiking, be sure to take in a casual lunch at Pacifica Brewery and enjoy light fare with a pint of local brew. Recently featured on “Check Please!”, the venue also has outdoor seating with fire pits and social bubble-cabana type areas. Then, as the getaway winds down, take a pick from the several adventure options…bowling at the Sea Bowl Entertainment Center; walking between Rockaway Beach and Linda Mar State Beach; powering up and down some of the most intriguing mountain bike terrain in California; paddle boarding at Linda Mar State Beach; hitting the links at the Alister MacKenzie-designed 18-hole Sharp Park Golf Course; or surfing the popular beaches of Pacifica (surf lessons are available for those that need a refresher). For more information, visit: https://visitpacifica.com
Sweeney Ridge beckons you to enjoy a “hike for the
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ew Orleans’ newest attraction, Vue Orleans, is officially open and features the City’s first 360-degree view of the Mississippi River and the New Orleans landscape. This breathtaking panorama isn’t reserved just for geography. Exhibits and interactive experiences also give visitors a robust view back in time, covering three hundred years of history and the diverse people and groups that created the City’s unique culture and continue to shape it today. Vue Orleans is a one-of-a-kind observatory and exhibit located at the foot of Canal Street in the newly renovated Four Seasons high-rise building. Touchless interactive exhibits feature legendary New Orleans figures, such as the Soul Queen of New Orleans, Irma Thomas, Preservation Hall Jazz Band and even more of the City’s famed culture bearers. “For years we’ve been gathering stories from local historians, artists, musicians, Mardi Gras Indians, and chefs, leaders of business and leaders second lines, Byways 48
all with the goal to curate a state-of-the-art cultural experience and share the real story of New Orleans – what it was, what it is and what it all means,” said Paul Flower, Developer of Vue Orleans. “Vue Orleans is a fresh look at one of the world’s most historic and beloved cities and we are proud to finally unveil this unique experience.” Before stepping into the Vue Orleans entrance, guests begin an immersive journey by entering through a towering display at the foot of Canal Street highlighting the individuals that create the vibrant daily life of New Orleans. Ground-floor exhibits feature a visual explosion of local artwork and the opportunity to interact with personalities pulled straight from the pages of history books – including Henriette De Lisle, a free woman of color, activist and nun; Giacomo Cusimano, Italian immigrant and pasta maker; and Tillie Karnofsky, Jewish immigrant and early supporter of Louis Armstrong – all brought to life by actors on life-sized touchscreens.
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Additional experiences include: • Get a taste of the history of New Orleans cuisine served up hot at the Story Café, led by PBS Chef Kevin Belton and cookbook author and “Louisiana Eats!” host, Poppy Tooker,
• Take a visceral step inside the soundtrack of the city in larger-than-life trumpet-shaped listening stations featuring selections of Jazz, Blues, Classical and more, • Try a hand at virtually piloting a riverboat through sharp turns and whirling river currents of the Mississippi River and earn a pilot pin, • “Zoom in” and see the landscape of the city on a virtual “vue finder” located along side breathtaking real-life views, • Mix and match costumes with a digital outfitter and leave with a souvenir photo in full regalia, • Ride an elevator through the history of New Orleans – showcasing three centuries of events and personalities in thirtyfour floors! Vue Orleans is located at 2 Canal Street in New Orleans. For more information about Vue Orleans, including hours of operation, private event rentals and more, visit: https://vueorleans.com
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he Twin Spires®. The Garland of Roses. The Mint Julep. The fashion, and of course, the horses. Many know and love the Kentucky Derby, but how did it become the beloved and worldrenowned race that it is today? Kentucky Derby Museum answers that question in its newest permanent exhibit, This is the Kentucky Derby! Presented by Kroger, now open to the public. The exhibit takes guests through five main facets of the Kentucky Derby: History, Culture, Spectacle, Economic Impact, and Tradition. Through artifacts, pictures and touchscreens, this exhibit will answer many questions, including: • Who started the Kentucky Derby? Why? • How did the Kentucky Derby become a media sensation? • How many millions of dollars flow through the city Byways 52
and state due to the Kentucky Derby? • From the Mint Julep to the solid gold trophy, to the Twin Spires® and the Garland of Roses, how did these traditions become icons of the Kentucky Derby? Visual focal points of the exhibit include replica Twin Spires® suspended from the ceiling. Designed off of the original blueprints of the famed Spires, they are complete with working lights that can change colors, just as the real Spires do. The coveted Garland of Roses hangs from the ceiling, bursting into petals that spray over the exhibit, to give guests a new way to see the prized blanket. The Museum’s curators worked closely with Kroger master floral designers to create the replica. A video monitor within the exhibit shows the floral designers handcrafting the authentic 40 pound masterpiece each year.
“Thousands of people from all over the globe visit the Kentucky Derby Museum each year, and many of them ask the tour guides, “What makes the Kentucky Derby the Kentucky Derby?’ It’s a complex question because there’s no single answer. This is the Kentucky Derby! gives visitors the space and time to explore how the Run for the Roses® became the greatest horse race in the world,” said Patrick Armstrong, President & CEO of the Kentucky Derby Museum. “I want to thank our Curatorial Team for bringing this exhibit to life through countless hours of design and research. In addition, we are excited to partner with Kroger, the designer of the Garland of Roses since 1987, to share this exhibit with our visitors.” A grand opening celebration kicked off the exhibit opening with a Call to the Post, performed by Churchill Downs Bugler, Steve Buttleman, whose
iconic red jacket and bugle are featured in the exhibit. Kroger shared Mint Juleps and long-stem roses with Museum guests, and one lucky visitor received a $500 Kroger gift card.
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Additionally, artist Aimee Griffith was on site autographing her Official Art of the Kentucky Derby posters. The new 500 square foot exhibit is located on the first floor of the Museum. After walking through the
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starting gates, it is the first exhibit visitors will experience. For more information, visit: https://www.derbymuseum.org
Byways is published bi-monthly by Byways, Inc. and distributed electronically throughout North America. Byways is emailed to more than 5,000 tour operators and Travel Trade. Subscriptions are complimentary. An iPad & iPhone version is available for consumers in the App Store. An Android browser version is available at www.issuu.com/byways. Byways’ distribution includes motorcoach companies, tour operators, selected travel agents, and
other group tour travel promoters. It is also available to consumers with an interest in North American travel. For advertising rates, editorial deadlines, or to place advertising insertions, contact: Byways Magazine at 540-233-1121. ©Copyright 2022 by Byways, Inc. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be duplicated in any form without express written permission of the publisher.
Editor & Publisher Stephen M. Kirchner
Advertising 540-233-1121 Internet
bywaysmagazine.com stephen.kirchner@gmail.com Byways on Facebook Byways on Twitter
Charge Electric Bikes .....................................................................................................................54 DirectTV Stream..............................................................................................................................21 Generac Home Standby Generator ...............................................................................................8 Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, Virginia .................................................................................9 LeafFilter .........................................................................................................................................56 Myrtle Beach Tourism, South Carolina .........................................................................................5 Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association, New York .......................................................................6 Wheeling Tourism, West Virginia..................................................................................................2
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