Marcie’s Favorite Summer Spots to Beat the Heat!

the Pour Choice

 
 

I love the little town of Auburn for so many reasons, including the farmers market & one of my dear clients’ shop. But no trip through town is complete without a stop at the local favorite coffee shop: the Pour Choice.

 

Tahoe/Truckee/Donner

If you’re thinking about summertime in California, Tahoe is right up at the top of everyone’s mind. There’s so much to see & do! Our family loves all the water activities: paddle boarding, jet skiing, boating. Make sure you think about the surrounding areas as well - Truckee & Donner Lake have some great hidden gems. Here’s a couple of my favorite spots in the greater Tahoe region:

 

Bullards Bar

This is a lesser-known treasure hidden in California, but also great for paddle boarding or boating. Its crystal blue water & warmer temps are the big draw for me. There is even a secret waterfall. 😉

 
 
 

Hiking King’s Canyon and Sequoia Parks

The giant trees have a special place near and dear to my heart. I might even call the redwoods my church. The ancient trees carry a magical power that makes you realize just how brief we are here and how important it is to stop and take in all the beauty every chance we get.

Our family loves hiking Hume Lake Loop. If you’re looking for a spot to stay nearby, we loved staying at Princess Campground for some good old fashioned tent camping, but there are definitely lots of other cabin & trailer or RV options.

 

Zion National Park

There is nothing quite as stunning as Zion National Park in the fall. The trees are next level with all the colors that somehow have to fight with the colors in the actual mountains themselves. There are just so many colors everywhere!

I was only there for a brief work trip, but I got to hike Emerald Pools Trail & do some yoga-and it has left a permanent spot on my heart. I plan to go back to hike the Narrows one day (it is definitely a hike that requires preparation) . If you haven’t researched The Narrows you are missing out. Prepare to be wowed.

 

Burney Falls

Next, let’s head up north for less of a dessert vibe. Instead, we’ll take a refreshing jaunt through McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. The park's centerpiece is the 129-foot Burney Falls, which is not the highest or largest waterfall in the state, but possibly the most beautiful. Additional water comes from springs, joining to create a mist-filled basin. Burney Creek originates from the park's underground springs & flows to Lake Britton, getting larger along the way to the majestic falls.

The park's landscape was created by volcanic activity as well as erosion from weather & streams. This volcanic region is surrounded by mountain peaks & is covered by black volcanic rock, or basalt. Created over a million years ago, the layered, porous basalt retains rainwater & snow melt, which forms a large underground reservoir. It is closed this summer but I’ve heard it’s magnificent in the fall & should definitely be on your to do list.

 

Sunset Bay State Park

Sunset Bay State Park is located on the coast of Oregon & it’s a hike you don’t want to miss. It’s through large, beautiful redwoods (or sequoias 😅) with an ocean view. It was so peaceful connecting with the grounding of the trees & the power of the ocean all at once. 🌲🌊

 
 

I found this gem of a hike while staying at our next location:

 

Coos Bay “Bay Point Landing”

If you have ever wanted to camp in major style this is your place. You can stay in airstreams (um, yes please!), cabins, or the RV camp. Luxury camping has never been easier! The Scandinavian-inspired cabins at Bay Point Landing bring you to Oregon's wildest coast with all the amenities of home. You have to check out all the options and let me know what you pick. We went the trailer route, but I’m definitely going back to try the other options soon.



 

Malibu

Or if you’re looking for the more typical Malibu beach experience, stop on over at the local surf & skate shop for some gear during your stay at the Malibu RV Park for some fun in the sun!

Ready for a unique & unforgettable experience? Embark on a transformative adventure at Malibu Meditations.

Santa Monica pier cool hotel glossier

 

Carmel by the Sea

Making our way back up the coast, you’ve got to stop at the charming Carmel-by-the-Sea. Such a beautiful spot with so many cute things to do & man, oh man, did I get a fast tan even with SPF on this beach! 🥰

There is also an incredible trail (a lot like Sunset Park) in the gorgeous trees & along the coastline. It’s breathtaking & there are tons of photo spots along the entire Point Lobos Loop. There is also a historic walking tour where you can see fairy cottages & a bunch of other cool historical spots.

 

the Bay Area

Don’t forget about San Fran! People come from all over the world to visit this city we have in our very own backyard - and it’s full of fun experiences for the whole family to enjoy! So many people go right into the city but I took my girls to a little beach spot in Pacifica and we had the best time ever.

I rented this little condo right on the beach & we were able to Uber to the city easily so we didn’t have to drive & worry about parking. We had a lovely time checking out some of the classic San Fran spots like the aquarium (in case you missed it for a field trip as a kid like I did, lol) or the hearts around the city, which is actually a personal favorite of mine.

There are truly so many great places to visit in our beautiful state (& neighboring ones) that I could go on & on! These are just a few of my personal favorites, but I’d love to hear yours! Be sure to connect with us on socials & let us know what your favorite summer spots are! Happy summering!

Marcie Burke