Choose from 2,596 Fun Things to Do in North America
ShowingFilter 1801-1820 of 2596 listings.
Sand Harbor
With its pristine waters, long stretches of sandy beach, rocky coves with giant boulders, and stunning panoramic views, Sand Harbor is one of the most popular beaches at Lake Tahoe. It’s the ideal place for the whole family to enjoy a day of fun in the sun surrounded by some of Lake Tahoe’s most spectacular scenery.
The Basics
With 55 acres (22.2 hectares) of beach and forested areas, there’s plenty to do at Sand Harbor. Multiple beaches offer sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and even scuba diving. Don’t miss the many giant boulders here, great for climbing or jumping off. Hire kayaks or stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) from the on-site rental shop and paddle to nearby hidden coves and beaches. Or take a break from the water and hike into the woods or have a barbecue or picnic under the shade of pine and cedar trees. Part of Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, the beach has extensive amenities.
Visitors can easily spend a few hours or even a full day at Sand Harbor. Those short on time should book a Lake Tahoe circle tour. For a different perspective, take a hot-air balloon ride or helicopter tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sand Harbor is a must for first-time visitors to Lake Tahoe.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- The facilities include parking, restrooms, concessions, a restaurant, barbecue and picnic areas, a gift shop, watersport rentals, and a boat launch.
- Alcohol is permitted on the beach, but glass containers are not.
- There are wheelchair-accessible paved walkways at Sand Harbor. The Sand Harbor Nature Trail is also wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Sand Harbor is located on the east side of the north shore of Lake Tahoe, about 3 miles (4.6 kilometers) south of Incline Village on NV 28. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, regular buses run from Incline Village.
When to Get There
During the peak summer season, arrive early to get a parking spot. Stay for the amazing sunsets. The annual Shakespeare Festival runs during July and August—a wonderful opportunity to see performances against a stunning natural backdrop. For fewer crowds, visit during the week in the shoulder seasons.
Flume Trail
Mountain bikers should check out nearby Flume Trail, one of the most scenic rides in Lake Tahoe. An exciting, mostly single track 1,600 feet (488 meters) above Lake Tahoe, there are stretches of uninterrupted views of the lake and sheer drop-offs for added excitement. Most riders start at Spooner Lake, also part of Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park; a shuttle also runs from Tunnel Creek Café.
Address: 2005 Nevada 28, Incline Village, Lake Tahoe 89451, USA
From $ 50
Santa Maria Beach
Stretching around a secluded cove, Santa Maria Beach is a protected marine sanctuary and an excellent spot for snorkeling or sunbathing. Santa Maria’s serene setting offers a nice alternative to the noise and excitement of Cabo San Lucas’ beaches, and snorkeling with a variety of colorful fish is just a short swim from shore.
The Basics
Santa Maria’s wide strip of golden sand and horseshoe-shaped bay tucked between two bluffs make it one of the nicest beaches in Los Cabos.
Most visitors arrive as part of a snorkeling cruise that includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off. There’s also a popular snorkel and kayak combo tour to consider. Excursions typically include free time to enjoy the beach. If you want to spend more time soaking up the Baja tranquility, plan to visit independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Choose a half-day snorkeling cruise that includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the beach offers little shade.
- Santa Maria Beach has basic facilities, including parking, wheelchair ramps, and restrooms.
- Snorkeling gear and beach umbrellas are available to rent.
How to Get There
The easiest way to visit Santa Maria Beach is on a boat tour from Los Cabos. Or, if you’re driving, take Highway 1. The beach is accessible via a well-marked stop off the road, about 8 miles (13 kilometers) east of Cabo San Lucas and 12 miles (19 kilometers) west of San Jose del Cabo.
When to Get There
Santa Maria Beach can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists, whereas other times of year are less crowded. The middle of the week has fewer crowds, and mornings offer better conditions and calmer waters for swimming and snorkeling.
Snorkeling at Santa Maria Cove
Santa Maria’s horseshoe-shaped bay is a popular destination for snorkeling cruises that ply the Los Cabos coast. Santa Maria Cove is one of the best spots to snorkel and see colorful coral formations, troves of tropical fish, and maybe sea turtles or manta rays. Its calm, shallow waters and ease of snorkeling from shore make it an ideal snorkeling spot for families.
Address: Los Cabos, Mexico
From $ 50
Santa Barbara Courthouse
After the great earthquake of 1925 ruined much of the city, an opportunity arose to give this beloved city by the sea something that would reflect the areas culture and beauty; something that would both honor and impress its residents. Designed in Spanish-Moorish style and completed in 1929, the Santa Barbara Courthouse is now one of the main tourist attractions on a visit to the American Riviera.
One of the most beautiful government buildings in all of the United States, the Santa Barbara Courthouse is a working courthouse, but visitors are encouraged to explore what its grounds hold in store for them. Here you’ll find the Sunken gardens where many weddings take place, an elevator to the 85-foot “El Mirador” clock tower for a panoramic view of downtown Santa Barbara, many hand-painted rooms full of detail (including the fantastic Mural Room), the Spirit of the Ocean fountain, and many wrought-iron hand-rails and window coverings which make the courthouse what it is – spectacular.
One of the most beautiful government buildings in all of the United States, the Santa Barbara Courthouse is a working courthouse, but visitors are encouraged to explore what its grounds hold in store for them. Here you’ll find the Sunken gardens where many weddings take place, an elevator to the 85-foot “El Mirador” clock tower for a panoramic view of downtown Santa Barbara, many hand-painted rooms full of detail (including the fantastic Mural Room), the Spirit of the Ocean fountain, and many wrought-iron hand-rails and window coverings which make the courthouse what it is – spectacular.
Practical Info
Guided tours are available Monday - Saturday at 2:00 p.m., and Monday, Tuesday, and Friday at 10:30 a.m. The Santa Barbara Courthouse is open weekdays from 8:00 am – 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Tours are free except for some groups.
Phone: (805) 962-6464
Phone: (805) 962-6464
Address: 1100 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
Hours: Docent led tours Mon-Sat 2:00pm; and Mon-Tue and Fri at 10:30am. The Santa Barbara Courthouse is open weekdays from 8:00am - 5:00pm and Sat, Sun, and holidays 10:00am - 5:00pm
From $ 89
Santa Monica Beach & Pier
Set along California’s Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica has two claims to fame: its wide beach and its carnivalesque pier. At Santa Monica Beach, miles of sand host playgrounds, parks, picnic areas, staffed lifeguard stations, and the original Muscle Beach. Nearly 8 million visitors frequent the area each year, most of whom follow the boardwalk to the Santa Monica Pier, whose neon-lit arch and ferris wheel are instantly recognizable from film and TV.
The Basics
Visit Santa Monica Beach on a hop-on hop-off bus tour and stroll to the end of the pier to see the sweeping arc of Santa Monica Bay, from Malibu to Palos Verdes. Dig your toes in the sand and watch the crowds go by, or get active with activities such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, and beach volleyball. For a bit more mobility, rent an electric bike or join a beach Segway tour. Families can enjoy a multitude of kid-friendly restaurants and shops, pet sea stars and sea urchins at the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, or purchase tickets to Pacific Park to take a ride on the ferris wheel. Santa Monica is also a stone’s throw from downtown Los Angeles; visit on a full-day bike or coach tour of the LA area to see highlights such as Hollywood Boulevard and Beverly Hills.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and water if you plan to spend a long day in the sun.
- Smoking is prohibited at the beach.
- Leashed pets are welcome.
- Handicap parking is available on the pier. To access the water’s edge, wheelchair users can rent sand wheelchairs from Perry’s Cafe and Beach Rentals.
How to Get There
Santa Monica is 17 miles (27 kilometers) west of downtown Los Angeles. Parking is plentiful, especially on Main Street, 2nd Street, and 4th Street between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard. Public transportation via buses is also readily available.
When to Get There
Santa Monica Beach and Pier are open year-round. The weather is mild throughout the year, but summer’s balmy temperatures and sunny skies bring crowds of vacationers. Visit outside of summer for lower prices and more availability.
Pacific Park and the Pacific Wheel
Located on the world-famous Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park is an amusement park packed with rides, games, food, and shopping. The iconic Pacific Wheel has appeared in more than 500 movies, television shows, music videos, commercials, and magazine editorials. Come nightfall, the wheel is illuminated by more than 174,000 LED lights that display dynamic, computer-generated light shows.
Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, 90401, USA
Hours: Daily
Admission: Admission to the beach and pier is free, although some attractions may charge for entry.
From $ 28
Santa Barbara Zoo
The most beautiful zoo in the world? While this might sound like a bold statement, the lions with their oceanfront view wouldn’t likely quibble about it. Located on 30 acres right across from the ocean, this small zoo has repeatedly been voted one of the best in the nation, particularly for children.
Over 600 animals fill the zoo’s various exhibits. Cats of Africa feature African lions and black-footed cats, while The Forest’s Edge features western lowland gorillas of Congo fame, while California Trails proudly displays the fauna of California, including the ultra-rare Californian Condor. Also popular are the Asian elephants, the giraffe exhibit, 100-year old tortoises, a petting farm, and a colony of Humboldt penguins.
Over 600 animals fill the zoo’s various exhibits. Cats of Africa feature African lions and black-footed cats, while The Forest’s Edge features western lowland gorillas of Congo fame, while California Trails proudly displays the fauna of California, including the ultra-rare Californian Condor. Also popular are the Asian elephants, the giraffe exhibit, 100-year old tortoises, a petting farm, and a colony of Humboldt penguins.
Practical Info
The Santa Barbara Zoo is located at 500 Ninos Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, and is open every day from 10am to 5pm. Parking is $6, but adjacent to the zoo there’s a public lot where parking is free.
Address: 500 Ninos Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, USA
Hours: Open Daily 10:00am - 5:00pm; On Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas open 10:00am - 3:00pm.
Admission: Adults $14, Child/Seniors $10
From $ 18
Sandy Beach Park
When U.S. President Barack Obama shared that Sandy’s was his favorite Oahu beach early in his presidency, it went from a popular locals’ beach to just plain popular. This public stretch of white sand just north of the extinct Koko Head Crater is no languid oasis, however; it’s one of Oahu’s best—and most intense—spots for bodyboarding and bodysurfing. A fierce shore break best suited for experienced surfers sometimes wells into powerful barrels that can pummel riders trying to catch a wave.
The spot is often coupled with a visit to the neighboring Halona Blowhole, a lookout point where waves regularly blow spray up through eroded crevices in the lava rock. And when the wind kicks up, it’s not uncommon to see families flying kites on the spacious lawn fronting the sand.
Practical Info
Located on Oahu’s rugged southern-facing shoreline, Sandy Beach Park sits about halfway between the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and Makapuu Lookout. The beach is accessible via TheBus routes 22 and 23 between Waikiki and Sea Life Park in Waimanalo, with a physically address of 8800 Kalanianaole Highway. The park has ample parking, freshwater showers, restroom blocks, picnic tables and lifeguards, whose warnings should be heeded when the surf is pounding. Also note that areas of shady refuge are sparse, so a hat and sunblock are recommended accessories.
Address: Oahu, Hawaii, USA, USA
From $ 25
Sand Falls
Cabo San Lucas’ famous landscape is easily recognized by anyone who’s gotten a chance to visit this majestic beachfront. Rugged, windswept arches dot the coastline, but these beautiful testaments to what Mother Nature can do are more than just pretty rocks – they mark the spot for some of the best diving in Cabo. Just look to the arch that stands by the head of the harbor and you’re well on your way to some beautiful underwater exploration. This spot is known as Sand Falls.
Discovered by famed underwater explorer Jacques Cousteau, Sand Falls is one of the beautiful phenomena of nature where forces conspire to make for a remarkable, one-of-a-kind spot. Where the steep rocky shoreline meets the continual runoff of sand, divers at Sand Falls enjoy a peaceful scene of time’s relentless ebb and flow. While literally floating in the warm water, you’ll watch the continual runoff of sand into the deep and bountiful sea.
Close to other dive spots including three different shipwrecks, Sand Falls is oftentimes a jumping off point for more snorkel and dive trips in the Cabo San Lucas Harbor.
Address: Los Cabos, Mexico
From $ 40
San Pedro
If you like spending time on the water, San Pedro should be on your Los Angeles must-visit list. This popular neighborhood is home to The Port of Los Angeles World Cruise Center. A large number of major cruise lines sail in and out of the port in route to destinations like Mexico, Hawaii and Alaska, making San Pedro an easy and enjoyable place for folks to stay before or after a cruise.
It’s also a launching point for trips to Catalina Island. Catalina is only a 22-mile trip from San Pedro. Most boat trips are only about an hour, and service is available all year long.
It always seems to be whale-watching season in San Pedro, so depending on the month, you could see gray whales, blue whales, dolphins and sea lions. Open every day except on Thanksgiving and Christmas, the USS Iowa (BB-61) is yet another itinerary possibility.
Practical Info
A free San Pedro Downtown Trolley runs on weekends from noon to 6pm, and each day a cruise ship is in port (except Mondays) from 10am to 6pm.
Address: USA
From $ 18
Santa Ynez Valley
The Santa Ynez Valley is located in northern Santa Barbara County, California and includes the towns of Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez and Solvang. It is one of five distinct American Viticultural Areas in Santa Barbara County's large wine country. More than 50 varietals thrive in this area's diverse micro-climates. There are more than 120 wineries located here, and most are small boutique operations and family owned and operated. Visitors come here to enjoy world class wines in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Aside from wine, the Santa Ynez Valley has a strong craft beer scene. Throughout the area there are outstanding breweries, specialty tasting rooms, bars and restaurants offering international beer tastings, and a specialty brew shop. There are also several art and history museums that explore the culture of this area as well as art from the local communities. The Valley is also a great place for outdoor activities. Visitors can experience nature by exploring hiking trails through rolling hills and wildflowers.
Practical Info
The Santa Ynez Valley is located between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the San Rafael Mountains and is approximately 35 miles from Santa Barbara.
Address: California, USA
From $ 140
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Founded in 1916 and nestled into the rock and oak of the surrounding area, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a cluster of Spanish-Revival buildings surrounding a beautiful courtyard, all set to inspire the love of nature and passion for the natural world.
Children and adults alike will enjoy the expertly preserved displays of birds, insects, mammals, and sea life of the area, while the newly renovated full-dome planetarium always inspires wonder with nightly voyages through the stars. Kids especially enjoy clambering over boulders, building forts, and making mud-pies in the Museum Backyard, while a to-scale replica of a blue whale skeleton makes for interesting games of freeze tag. Let your inner child out, and explore the natural wonder of the world we live in at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History.
Children and adults alike will enjoy the expertly preserved displays of birds, insects, mammals, and sea life of the area, while the newly renovated full-dome planetarium always inspires wonder with nightly voyages through the stars. Kids especially enjoy clambering over boulders, building forts, and making mud-pies in the Museum Backyard, while a to-scale replica of a blue whale skeleton makes for interesting games of freeze tag. Let your inner child out, and explore the natural wonder of the world we live in at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History.
Practical Info
Located just behind Mission Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is located at 2559 Puesta del Sol, Santa Barbara, California. Parking is free for museum guests.
Address: 2559 Puesta Del Sol, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA
Hours: Daily 10:00am - 5:00pm. Closed on major holidays.
Admission: Adult $12, Senior/Teen $8, Child $7
From $ 6
Santa Cruz Bay
Gome to Huatulco’s harbor, Santa Cruz Bay is located just minutes from La Crucecita and offers shops, restaurants, hotels, and easily accessible beaches. It’s the jumping-off point for boat tours of Huatulco’s bays, or for hiring small fishing boats to visit some of the more remote beaches.
The Basics
Santa Cruz is the perfect place to shop for artisan crafts, enjoy authentic Oaxacan cuisine, and experience the beauty of the coast. Beach-goers can rent kayaks and jet skies to tour the bay, or swim and snorkel from shore. Those looking for a more scenic escape can hop aboard one of the sightseeing cruises, which depart from the main dock. These excursions carry travelers across the bay, with stops at a number of popular beaches.
Things to Know Before You Go
- English is widely spoken in almost all of the Huatulco tourist areas.
- Most boat tours of the Huatulco Bays leave from the harbor in Santa Cruz.
- The bay has restaurants, shops, and water-sports facilities.
- Bring sunblock and a hat or sunglasses, as the beaches offer little shade.
- Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent.
How to Get There
The Huatulco Bays stretch for 22 miles (35 kilometers) along Mexico’s Pacific Coast in the state of Oaxaca. Most visitors arrive by air or cruise ship. Getting there from Oaxaca City by car takes about five or six hours. Santa Cruz Bay is located on the same seaside boulevard as La Crucecita.
When to Get There
Santa Cruz Bay is lovely year-round. The Huatulco resort area as a whole receives fewer tourists than other popular Mexican resort areas and overcrowding is rarely a problem, though Santa Cruz tends to get crowded on days when cruise ships dock here.
Boat Tours of the Huatulco Bays
A boat tour is one of the best ways to explore Huatulco. Sightseeing cruises typically depart from Santa Cruz and include stops at a number of popular beaches, such as Yerbabuena, La India, and Cacaluta. Small fishing boats called lanchas wait in Santa Cruz to take visitors to the untouched shores of bays like Chachacual, which is only accessible by boat.
Address: Santa Cruz Bay, Oaxaca, Mexico
From $ 50
Santa Barbara Waterfront
It should come as no surprise that a city hailed for its beautiful coastline should consider its waterfront the #1 tourist attraction in the area. With a variety of restaurants, boating and sport fishing tours, a bird sanctuary, bike path, and a beautiful promenade connecting the Waterfront to the rest of the downtown area, the Santa Barbara Waterfront is, without a doubt, one of the glittering gems of Santa Barbara.
From State Street (the area’s main business street) head East to see Chase Palm Park (home to Sunday art-walks and where many a pickup soccer game begins), the Santa Barbara Skate Park, and the Bird Sanctuary. Head West from State Street and find the Harbor, Waterfront Museum, several restaurants, and water sports adventure tours.
From State Street (the area’s main business street) head East to see Chase Palm Park (home to Sunday art-walks and where many a pickup soccer game begins), the Santa Barbara Skate Park, and the Bird Sanctuary. Head West from State Street and find the Harbor, Waterfront Museum, several restaurants, and water sports adventure tours.
Practical Info
The Santa Barbara Waterfront runs from Leadbetter Beach, down past Stern’s Wharf, and over down to East Beach and the Bird Sanctuary and Santa Barbara Zoo. Parking is typically free for 90 minutes, and readily available.
Address: USA
From $ 15
Santa Rosa
The town of Santa Rosa is at the heart of Sonoma Valley and all the food and wine that the region is known for. It is the largest city in Sonoma County and one of the largest in the Bay Area, with restaurants and tasting rooms intermixed with art galleries, shops, and local haunts. There is plenty to taste and explore here, and Railroad Square in the center of town is a historic area full of outdoor cafes and antique shops.
The town is a great base for exploring the nearly 400 wineries of the Sonoma region. Scenic vineyards alongside the farms and breweries that produce some of the area’s best food and beer complement the many hiking and biking trails here. The scenic valley is home to plenty of wine and farmland, but also contains redwood forests, lakes and rivers. City parks and nearby Sugarloaf Ridge State Park are the best places to experience the outdoors.
Practical Info
It is best to visit Santa Rosa via car, on the Highway 101. It is approximately 55 miles north of San Francisco. For a more scenic route, take the Highway 1 along the coast and through the Sonoma Valley. Bicycling is a popular way to get around once in town.
Address: Santa Rosa, USA
From $ 83
Sausalito
Perfectly arranged on a secure little bay harbor, seaside Sausalito certainly isn’t short on charm. Set across the bay and to the north of San Francisco, Sausalito's small settlement of hillside homes tumbles neatly into a lively downtown area featuring a mix of art galleries and small boutique shops set alongside restaurants often serving fresh seafood. Strolling along the waterfront, visitors will find a number of spots to stop for lunch or coffee, a unique houseboat community, and views of the city and the San Francisco Bay.
The Basics
Sausalito is a popular day trip from San Francisco, accessible by boat, bicycle, and car. It can be visited as part of a half- or full-day tour, with many also taking in Alcatraz or other Marin County highlights including Muir Woods National Monument. A number of bay cruises run past Sausalito or allow for free time here, while the ferry ride across the water is often rated as one of the most scenic in the world (the ferry pier is in the heart of downtown, so you'll be right in the middle of everything if arriving by water). A San Francisco city sightseeing tour can be paired with a drive or bike ride over the Golden Gate Bridge and into Sausalito, a highlight of any visit to the Bay Area.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A journey across the bay on the Sausalito ferry takes about 30 minutes.
- Dress in layers, as winds and fog can bring wind, fog, and cool temperatures on the bay.
- Be sure to check out the San Francisco skyline from Sausalito for beautiful views.
- If crossing the bay by road, don't miss the Golden Gate Bridge vista point in the Marin Headlands just across the bridge.
How to Get There
Sausalito is set in Marin County, just north of San Francisco via the Golden Gate Bridge. Public transport via the Golden Gate Transit bus or Golden Gate Ferries runs on a regular basis, with ferries departing frequently from the San Francisco Ferry Building and offering views of the city skyline, Angel Island, and the coast. Drive can take the first exit off the bridge, Alexander Drive. Free and paid parking is available downtown.
When to Get There
Sausalito boasts a mild climate and is lovely year-round. Temperatures rarely break 70°F (21°C), even in summer, while winter weather tends to hover around 60°F (15°C). Most restaurants and shops are open from 10am to 5pm or so. Stick around at sunset to see the bay and San Francisco skyline surrounded by a pink and orange sky.
Address: Sausalito, California, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 12
San Juan Market
One of the oldest markets in the city, the San Juan Market (Ernesto Pugibet Market) was established in colonial times and is over 150 years old. One of the most popular places to shop in the city, the market had simple roots, once beginning as people put things out upon blankets on the ground. Perhaps it is for precisely this reason that San Juan Market has excelled where others have failed. Known for its gourmet products and its exotic ingredients, the gathering is what all markets hope to be – unique, genuine and useful.
Look for La Jersey, a famous stall where imported delicacies are sold, such as foie gras, French cheeses and Italian meats. There is also Café Triana where you’ll taste the finest in Mexican organic coffees. Other stalls sell everything from quail to venison to shark.
Practical Info
Located at Ernesto Pugibet 21 in Centro Historico, the market runs Sunday through Friday from about 8am to 4pm.
Address: Calle Ernesto Pugibet 21, Ciudad de México, D.F., Mexico, Mexico
From $ 60
Santa Rosa Wall
The Santa Rosa Wall is one of Cozumel’s most famous dive sites, with coral formations up to 40 feet (13 meters) high, massive rock overhangs, a deep drop-off, narrow tunnels full of sea creatures, and hundreds of species of tropical fish—including nurse sharks, sea turtles, angelfish, manta rays, and barracuda.
The Basics
With a depth ranging from 50 to 120 feet (15.24 meters to 36.6 meters), the Santa Rosa Wall is a good spot for both novice and experienced divers. Diving tours typically leave from Cancun or Cozumel, often visiting other dive sites including Tormentos Reef, Palancar Gardens, or La Herradura. Round-trip transportation to the reef, lunch, and diving equipment are provided on some tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Santa Rosa Wall is a must-see attraction for wildlife lovers and scuba divers.
- Remember to bring sun protection, a swimsuit, and plenty of water.
- It’s a good idea to wear a wetsuit or rash guard while diving or snorkeling to protect against the sun, jellyfish, and rough coral surfaces.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb the wildlife.
- Evidence of scuba diving certification is required to participate in certified dives.
How to Get There
The Santa Rosa Wall is located off the island of Cozumel near Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. To get there, you can opt for a private charter boat or a guided tour.
When to Get There
You can visit the Santa Rosa Wall year-round, but it’s busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms. If you’d like to beat the crowds, consider diving this spot in the afternoon, when most other divers have moved on.
Cozumel’s Coral Reefs
Cozumel is best known for its expansive coral reefs, some of the largest in the world. Paradise Reef and the Palancar Gardens are ideal spots for novice divers and snorkelers due to their shallow depth, and offer a chance to glimpse marine life such as sea turtles, moray eels, colorful fish, towering coral spires, and gently waving sea fans. The Palancar Caves are probably the most famous dive site, with huge brain corals and swim-through tunnels. The Palancar Horseshoe is another massive formation of corals.
Address: Cozumel, Mexico
From $ 189
San Juan de Ulua Fortress
San Juan de Ulua is a maze of historic fortresses and prison cells on a shadowy island overlooking the once-busy port of Veracruz. Constructed in 1956, the fort is home to a dark history that includes captured naval fleets, African slave trade and international treasure.
During the nineteenth century the imposing stone walls and deep dungeons of San Juan de Ulua served as a prison for Mexican political activists. The views from the old lookout tower make it a popular attraction, but a hidden chapel on the southwest side of the structure, massive treasure storage rooms and the dungeon of San Juan de Ulua, which housed the legendary bandit Chucho el Roto, are also worth a look.
Practical Info
The fortress is located at Pedro Saenz de Baranda S/N, in Ver Centro1, within walking distance of Arsenal Nacional. Admission is about 41 pesos per person and hour-long guided tours cost 300 pesos. The fortress is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
Address: Pedro Saenz de Baranda S/N, Ver Centro1, Veracruz 91700, Mexico
Admission: 41 pesos
From $ 38
San Pedro Cholula
San Pedro Cholula is a municipality located in the town of Cholula, which is part of the Mexican state of Puebla. Its many historic sites plus its under the radar atmosphere makes it an excellent area of Mexico to visit.
A top site in San Pedro Cholula is the Place de la Concorde, which is the main plaza in Cholula and is where much of the action occurs. An aesthetically defining aspect of the plaza is Los Portales, a blue wall consisting of 46 arches that stretches down one side of Place de la Concorde. The San Gabriel Monastery is another prominent site in Cholula; it was built on the site of the Quetzalcoatl Temple in the mid-1500s and is one of the largest Franciscan monasteries in Mexico.
The site that draws the most attention for visitors to San Pedro Cholula, though, is the Great Pyramid of Cholula, an ancient pre-Columbian temple that has the largest pyramidal base of any structure in the world. It also happens to be buried underground. Construction began after it was discovered in 1910 to unearth part of the pyramid and today visitors can walk through pathways beneath the earth to explore the Great Pyramid of Cholula. A hike to the top of the outside of the pyramid provides great views of Cholula and the surrounding area.
Practical Info
San Pedro Cholula is located about a two hour drive from Mexico City and makes for a great day trip. It’s also ideal to stay at one of the many hotels in Cholula and spend a few days exploring the area. If just doing a quick trip, make sure to time it with the hours the Great Pyramid of Cholula is open, which is luckily easy to do as it is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: San Pedro Cholula, Mexico
From $ 47
Santa Monica Pier Aquarium
This small but impressive aquarium located in the heart of Santa Monica is home to plenty of marine life and under water world displays. Travelers will find impressive exhibits that seek to educate visitors on the importance of preservation and local ecology.
Daily events like shark feeding, sea urchin hugs and interactive science experiments make for an engaging and informative visit that’s as entertaining for adults as it is for the younger set.
Practical Info
The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is located at 1600 Ocean Front Walk in Santa Monica. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 2 until 6pm and on weekends from 12:30 until 6:30pm. It is closed on Monday.
Address: 1600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, California 90401, USA
Hours: Open Tuesday through Friday from 2 pm until 6 pm and on weekends from 12:30 pm until 6:30 pm. It is closed on Monday.
Admission: Adults and kids 13 and up: $5/person; kids 12 and under are free
From $ 84
Savannah City Market
Dating back to the 18th century, Savannah City Market has long been the commercial and social center of historic downtown Savannah, Georgia. The market is known locally as the “art and soul” of Savannah, a nod to the numerous art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants that make it such an important part of Savannah's social fabric.
The Basics
Set adjacent to Ellis Square in the city’s historic district, Savannah City Market is a vibrant destination for dining, sightseeing, shopping, and admiring local artworks. Many Old Savannah tours include a stop at the market, whether you want to visit on foot, by carriage, or by trolley. Along with the market, city tours typically include a visit to other top attractions such as River Street, Forsyth Park, Bonaventure Cemetery, and the American Prohibition Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Savannah City Market is a must-see for art enthusiasts and foodies.
- Six onsite restaurants offer a variety of food options, ranging from gourmet establishments to casual hot-wing joints.
- The market hosts special events throughout the year, including some specifically for kids.
How to Get There
Savannah City Market is located at 219 W Bryant Street in the North Historic District. While guided tours are an easy way to visit, there are numerous parking lots in the area and street parking is also available. Buses 11 and 14 stop nearby at W Broughton and Jefferson streets.
When to Get There
The retail shops at the Savannah City Market are open year-round. Summer weekends and days when the market hosts special events are typically the most crowded and liveliest times to visit. For low-key shopping, aim to visit on a weekday. January and February hours are slightly shorter.
The History of Savannah City Market
The market still stands on the site used by farmers and traders since the city’s founding. Originally the most popular destination for locals in search of groceries, the market survived two fires, a huge hurricane, and the Civil War. It fell into disrepair as the city spread out, but was revived by preservationists dedicated to Savannah's history, and today is a destination for locals and travelers alike in search of arts and culture.
Address: 219 W Bryan St #207, Savannah, GA 31401, USA
From $ 25