Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
B&Bs
If you want an atmospheric alternative to impersonal motels and hotels, bed-and-breakfast
inns typically inhabit fine old Victorian houses or other heritage buildings, bedecked with
floral wallpaper and antique furnishings. People who like privacy may find B&Bs too intim-
ate.
Rates often include a cooked breakfast, but occasionally breakfast is
not
provided (never
mind what the name 'B&B' suggests). Amenities vary widely, but rooms with TV and tele-
phone are the exception; the cheapest units share bathrooms.
Standards are high at places certified by the
California Association of Boutique &
Breakfast Inns
(
www.cabbi.com
). Quality varies wildly at hosted and DIY vacation rental
properties listed with
Airbnb
(
www.airbnb.com
) and
Vacation Rentals By Owner
(
www.vrbo.com
).
Most B&Bs require advance reservations and don't accept drop-in guests; always call
ahead. Smoking is generally prohibited and children are usually not welcome. Expect
minimum-stay requirements, especially on weekends and in high season.
Camping
In coastal California, camping is much more than just a cheap way to spend the night. The
best campsites let you wake up on the beach or under a canopy of redwood trees. If you
didn't bring your own tent, you can buy (and occasionally rent) camping gear at outdoor
outfitters and sports goods shops in most cities and some towns.
Most public and private campgrounds in coastal areas are open year-round, including the
following types:
Primitive campgrounds
Usually campsites have fire pits, picnic tables and access to
drinking water and vault toilets; most common in national forests (USFS) and on Bureau of
Land Management (BLM) land.
Developed campgrounds
Typically found in state and national parks, these offer more
amenities, including flush toilets, BBQ grills and occasionally coin-operated hot showers.
Private campgrounds
Catering mainly to RVers with full electricity and water hookups and
dump stations; tent sites may be sparse and uninviting. Hot showers and coin-op laundry
are usually available, and possibly wi-fi, a swimming pool and camping cabins too.
Walk-in (environmental) sites
Providing more peace and privacy, and usually cheaper
than drive-in campsites. A few state-park campgrounds reserve these sites for long-dis-
tance hikers and cyclists only.
