When the temperature rises in California, we know all you want to do is beat the heat. Since Summer is right around the corner, we thought we'd make a list to help you with that! These 10 ways to beat the California heat will help you head into summer with guaranteed ways to stay cool.

Beat the Heat

1. Take a swim

We know you've been working out to get ready for the beach, but if you can't make it to the beach, put on that new swimsuit and take a swim at your local pool or clubhouse. Make a day of it and bring a picnic lunch and invite some friends.

2. See a movie

Flickr-marlon-bunday There are some great movies releasing this summer and a great way to beat the California heat is to take a trip to the theater! Make sure you grab a rewards club card to your local cinema to wrack up points for free popcorn, candy, and even free tickets!

3. Go to the beach

The California coast is the perfect place to beat the heat. The breeze coming off of the ocean is sure to keep you cool. Pack a lunch and bring a Frisbee or volleyball and spend the day at the beach!

4. Hang out at Starbucks

Worried about your AC bill? Take a break from your living room and go to Starbucks to enjoy a cold beverage and free AC. Spending time at the 'Bucks will give you the perfect opportunity to do a little reading, work from home, or spend time Pinterest-planning your future wedding.

5. Visit a museum

Flickr-John Martinez Pavliga [UC Berkeley Museum of Paleontology]

California is rich in history from the Gold Rush fields of Northern California to the incredible missions of Southern California. No matter your preference or location, take some time to beat the heat by visiting your local museum or taking a day trip out of town. It'll keep you cool and keep you in the know.

6. Take a drive

Gas prices being what they are, we don't often take the time to get out on the open road. The California summer heat may be enough of an incentive to push you out the door and into your vehicle. Roll down the windows (or put the top down) and blast some music while taking the scenic route to a cooler summer. From Pinterest via wherethesidewalkbegins.blogspot.com

7. Grab a drink

Whether it's a fruity concoction from Jamba Juice or something with a little more kick (read: margarita) one of the best ways to cool down on a hot summer day is to grab a cool drink.

8.Go out for FroYo

When the heat goes up it's time to go out. Taking a detour to your favorite FroYo (Frozen Yogurt) place to create the best topping combination is a great way to beat the heat. If you'd prefer ice cream, that's just as good. Either way, coolness will be on its way.

From Pinterest via justataste.com

9.Work it out

One of the last things you'll probably want to do when the temperature goes up is work out. It can be a great way to beat the California heat if you spend time at your local gym. Some gyms offer cardio rooms with movie screens and almost any gym will have a pool. Go to the gym in the later afternoon (the hottest part of the day) and by the time you're done with your workout and swim, hopefully the temperatures will have dropped.

10. Walk the mall

Want to beat the heat but feeling the need to stretch your legs? Try walking around the mall. The AC will keep you cool and the atmosphere will keep you interested. From Pinterest via americanaatbrand.com Cover Photo: Flickr - Digital Trav

This list of 25 facts about California will blow you away! We've compiled this list of facts about the beautiful state of California so you can wow your friends or entertain anyone at your next party. Use this list to quiz your friends or to expand your own knowledge.

25 Facts About California

1. California is one of the largest states in the country and is the most populated state in the US.

2. California raises more turkeys than any other state.

3. More avocados are grown in the Fallbrook, located in northern San Diego, than any other county in the US. Fallbrook is also known as the "Avocado Capital of the World". Flickr - olle svensson

4. The element Californium was actually named after California!

5. The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo is the richest 2-day rodeo in the United States with a purse topping over $200,000!

6. The California state Railroad Museum in Sacramento is the largest museum of its kind in North America.

7. There are 58 counties in California.

8. San Bernardino County, about three million acres in size, is the largest county in the country.

9. The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles is the largest outdoor amphitheater in the world.

10. Before Beverly Hills became home to the rich and famous, it once boasted fields of Lima Beans.

 

11. The World Meteorological Organization has deemed California's Death Valley the world's hottest place in a recent media release.

12. San Francisco Bay is the largest land-locked harbor in the world.

13. Sequoia National Park is host to the largest living tree with a circumference of 102 feet. Now that is a tree! Flickr - synopsis1

14. One out of every eight people living in the United States is a California Resident.

15. Out of all of the 50 states in the U.S., California has the largest economy.

16. California's state motto is: "Eureka!" meaning, "I have found it!" and was adopted in 1849. It's also the name of a town in Northern California.

17. Every year California produces more than 17 million gallons of wine. Flickr - Freddy Olsson

18. The state tree of California is the redwood.

19. Gold was first discovered by James W. Marshall at Sutter's Mill in Coloma, California on January 24, 1848.

20. California is the birthplace of the skateboard which was created as an alternative for surfing.

21. Sacramento is California's state capitol.

22. Mt. Whitney is the highest peak in the lower 48 states.

23. California's beloved band, The Beach Boys, are originally from Hawthorne, California and after 50 years of being together, are Americas first pop-band to reach that milestone!

24. California is host to the highest number of residents who were born in other countries.

25. California is known as the Golden State (this is due to the discovery of gold, but we like to think it has something to do with the golden California sunshine).

Flickr - Damian Gadal Source: California Fast Facts Cover Photo: Flickr - Raul Gomez

Knowing that over half of Americans own smart phones, we've compiled a list of some of the best apps that every Californian should have! Whether it's traffic reports on congested roadways or a vacation idea, we've got you covered.

Best Smart Phone Apps Every Californian Should Have

California Road Report See CalTrans road conditions, chain control, find rest stops, and even see CHP incidents with this handy app! From Pinterest via Lumoid California Essential Guide ($4.99) At about the price of a venti drink at Starbucks, this hand app will help you plan your next California vacation! Disneyland App | Mouse Wait There are many Disneyland apps but this is a favorite. If you live in Southern California you must have this app. California State Parks Map ($0.99) It may cost you almost a dollar, but this app for California State Parks is worth it! Plan a trip to the California Redwoods and use this app to download maps of the area to always know where you are. From Wikipedia - Tide Pools

California Tidepools We call this one of the best apps because, if you're on the California coast, this app is a must! The beautiful photos and informational captions will help you explore the California coast.

DiscoverIt! California This free app claims to help you, "Find Anything - no cell service, no internet, no maps, no pins, no typing!" With points of interest, information for hikers and bikers, and so much more, this app has to be included in a best apps list! Flickr- Scott Smith California Traffic Report Avoid getting stuck in traffic with this app that covers Los Angeles, the Bay Area, and San Diego. California Atlas ($4.99) No matter where you are in California, this atlas app will show you the way to go! California Traffic Cameras/Transit/Travel/NOAA See what's going on in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Diego through his handy free app. California Hot Springs ($9.99) It may be a little more expensive (like one month of Spotify) but if you love mineral springs and spas, this is the app for you. California Ins & B&B’s ($2.99) Find inns, B&B's and cute boutique hotels with this amazing app. California's Gold Country Travel Guide As part of the best apps for California, we couldn't leave out the history buffs. Use this app for traveling and discovering more about California's rich history. California Farmers' Market Finder Look all over California to find a Farmers' Market near you! Yelp Though not specific to California, this has to be part of a best apps list because it's just so helpful! From Pinterest via renewable-energy-news.info

Chimani Yosemite National Park Travel to Yosemite National Park with this amazingly helpful app.

California Wine Club Food and Wine Wheel Pair any wine with any food using this handy app made for the California Wine Club. California Breweries For the discerning beer connoisseur this app has it all - a list of brewery locations and information. From Pinterest via Tumbler California Surfing ($4.99) Dude you like, need to have this totally awesome surfing app. It's for sure the gnarliest app ever! Skate California ($0.99) Perfect guide to the skate parks of California. QuakeFeed for Earthquakes It's no secret that earthquakes are bound to happen in California. Use this completely free app to get alerts, see maps, and find out the size of any earthquake! Fire Station App ($1.99) Often, during the summer especially, California is prone to wilderness and residential fires. This app lets you in on where all local fire stations are. San Francisco Exploration Guide Visit San Francisco and use this app to get around. Hearst Castle Planning that trip to see the Hearst Castle? Navigate through it with this app! From PInterest by hendartopermadi

Pocket Penguins See these cuties live from the California Academy of Sciences! Perfect for a break at lunch.

California Homes for Sale Do you love California so much you've decided to move? Or maybe it's time to relocate? Use this app to find the perfect location! VSCO Cam One of the best apps for photo editing. Every Californian should have this free app!  

We've compiled a list of the best California races to put your endurance and strength to the test. Some are just plain fun and others will push you to (and maybe past) the breaking point. Which races are you up for?

Tough Mudder

Likely one of the better known mud runs, the Tough Mudder has everything you'll need to get dirty while challenging your endurance and team spirit. There are several California race locations including Patterson (Northern California) April 12-13, Tahoe August 16-17, and Temecula October 25-26. Be warned - the Tough Mudder isn't for the faint of heart! Pinterest - from mensfitness.com

Down and Dirty Obstacle Race

The Southern California location for this race is Castaic, Ca (Northern Los Angeles) and is held on April 13, 2014.  This races offers you the choice of a 3 mile or 6 mile course with over 20 obstacles including rope climbing, a rock wall, balance beans, marine hurdles, mud pits, and so much more! Participate in this race and you are guaranteed to walk away dirty.

Kiss Me Dirty Mud Run

This one's for the ladies (or, apparently, guys dressed up like ladies?). The Kiss Me Dirty Mud Run on April 26, 2014 in San Jose combines mud, foam, and color. It's like participating in three races at once! Lucky ladies that sign up for this gem of a race will have one thing in common: attitude. If this is you, make this your next California race!

The Color Run

Break out that nice white T-shirt and take a before and after selfie, because this run will not only give you a great workout, but a whole new colorful look. The Color Run, with a variety of locations in California, is a fun and easy 5k. The Orange County run is coming up May 10, 2014 so make sure and register soon! Grab three other friends and knock $5 off your entry fee! Pinterest - from Nancy Tu

Mud n' Blood Zombie Run

Not for the faint of heart, this Mud and Zombie Run combines the elements of fear and grime to get your heart beating and your legs pumping. If you've been training for the impending Zombie Apocalypse and want to prove something (whether that's to you or to the people dressed up like zombies who will be chasing you) sign up now! The next race is June 7, 2014 but mark your calendars for The Zombie Run (a similar race) next year in March. Photo from The Zombie Run via livestrong.com

Gladiator Rockin' Run

Take a trip to Irvine on June 14, 2014 for this 5k with 17 obstacles, a whole lot of mud, and even a free beer at the end (for those over 21 of course!). This is a great event to form a team and create a costume for!

The Slime Run

SLIME! There is nothing better than running through green goo. Ok, maybe there are some things that are better, but this is definitely near the top of the list. The next event is in Sacramento on June 21, 2014 or wait until October 25, 2014 for the Southern California race held in Lake Elsinore.

5k Foam Fest

This race is packed with foamy fun for everyone! You'll be muddy and clean all at the same time with the various obstacles in place during this 5k. With two locations in California, you have no excuse to get out of this! July 19, 2014 in Temecula and August 9, 2014 in Oakland. Register now to save your spot! Found on 5K Foam Fest

The Great American Hero Obstacle Run (5k/10k)

The race supports heroes locally and abroad and is meant to challenge any fitness level! It's located near the San Joaquin River on August 23, 2014 and is a great event for the whole family with a focus on celebrating those who serve in the military and as civil servants.

Spartan Race

Crawl through mud, under wires, and jump over fire (among other obstacles) in the this hard-core race held in various locations world wide. The California race is held in Temecula on September 14, 2014. Dominate this run and you may just win an entry into the Super Spartan! Flickr - cogdogblog

MuckFest 5k Mud Run

If these earlier races weren't enough for you (or it's taken you until the fall to gain the courage to join) sign up for the MuckFest 5k held in Los Angeles September 27, 2014. This race is a fundraiser for the MS foundation and  100% of funds raised will go to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society! You shouldn't need any better motivation than that ;)

Have we convinced you to sign up for a race that will leave you muddy and exhausted? If so, let us know which one in the comments below!

Source: Mud Jumper Cover Photo: From Rich-Joseph Facun Photography

Whether you're planning a wedding right now or just Pinterest-planning your future wedding, you need to check out this list of 20 amazing California wedding venues.This list covers all areas of California and you are guaranteed to find a venue that suits you from outdoors rugged to plush, indoor elegance.

No matter what your wedding dreams are, they can come true in California.

20 AMAZING California Wedding Venues

1. Calistoga Ranch in Napa Valley: It's right there in the title: Cali-stoga Ranch. This beautiful California wedding venue has it all! Spa, formal dining, lodging, and a view that will knock your socks off!

From Pinterest - by tiaandclairestudio.com 2. Owl Creek Weddings in Temecula: This venue is relatively new on the wedding market for Southern California but it is beautiful with a rustic feel and fantastic red barn as the perfect backdrop for any bride looking for a vintage-chic feeling. Owl Creek Weddings - Chelsea Steller Photography

3. Stryker Winery in Sonoma: This wintery combines stunning architecture and an amazing view that can't be beat. BuzzFeed named it one of the "22 Coolest PLaces to Get Married in America". We agree!

From Pinterest - from kristiamoroso.com 4. Jefferson Street Mansion in Benicia: Looking for an elegant and historic venue? Look no further than the the stunning Jefferson Street Mansion. From Bay Area Wedding Venues

5. Cambria Pines Lodge in Cambria: Rustic luxury defines this stunning lodge with many options to accommodate a small wedding (40-60 guests) to a larger wedding (300 guests).

From Pinterest - by proimageweddings.com 6. Cayucos Creek Barn in Cayucos: Chalk this one up for its rustic beauty and charming location! The century-year-old barn is the perfect backdrop for a wedding. From Cameron Ingalls Photography 7. The Glass Barn in Ivanhoe: Seven Sycamores Ranch offers a fantastic location channeling the ever-popular theme of vintage meets country. From Seven Sycamores Ranch 8. Yosemite Valley Chapel in Yosemite National Park: Are you a fan of the outdoors and love nature? What better way to celebrate your wedding than in Yosemite National Park? Whether it's in winter or summer, this California wedding venue is stunning! From Photobucket 9. The Heirloom Inn in Ione: This lovely Central California inn is perfect for outdoor garden weddings with the touch of elegance and a hint of history added by the beautiful brick of the inn. From The Heirloom Inn 10. Mill Rose Inn in Half Moon Bay: Not far from the Half Moon Bay Hostel, this charming inn boasts a "classic European elegance by the sea". What could be better for your wedding? From The Mill Rose Inn 11. The Garden at Olympic Village Lodge in Squaw Valley: The jaw dropping views of this venue will stun your guests while the top-notch staff at Squaw Valley will make your every dream come true! Check out their website for other wedding locations. From Squaw Valley Weddings

12. June Mountain Weddings in June Lake: This full-service venue offers a spectacular view, not to mention the option of riding up on the lift to say "I do". Why not make your grand entrance in style?

From Shutterfly - June Mountain Weddings 13. Union Hill Inn in Sonora: With the phrase "rustic and refined" this inn is a perfect location for a discerning bride with an eye toward historic charm and delicate elegance. From Union Hill Inn - Photographer Bogdan Condor

14. McCloud Hotel in McCloud: If you're in Northern California, the McCloud Mercantile is an enchanting location offering an historic backdrop and rustic charm.

From Shooting Sacramento - by Nhat

15. Bear Flag Farm in Winters: This stunning venue (featured in several popular wedding magazines) is extremely selective with their event booking, but if you can manage to get on the list and afford the price it will be worth it!

From Style Me Pretty by Jennifer Skog Photographers 16. Holman Ranch in Carmel Valley: This venue boasts a secluded feel that is at once sophisticated and rustic. From Pinterest by Carlie Statsky

17. Viansa Winery and Marketplace in Sonoma: Another beautiful venue to tempt those who love wonderful wine and stunning views. Viansa has indoor and outdoor options that are sure to fit your needs.

From Viansa Gallery

18. Casa Romantica in San Clemente: This bluff top estate is a non-profit and any money they collect for your event goes toward maintaining the beautiful grounds. A great way to give back for your wedding.

From Kevin Levu Weddings

19. Mountain Home Inn in Mill Valley: With options for "Green Weddings" this is venue boats a breath taking view from high up on Mt. Tamalpais.

From Pinterest - by susanadler.com 20. Point Reyes Seashore Lodge: Enjoy all this private country estate has to offer including guest rooms, vast green lawns, catering and rentals all in one place. From Style Me Pretty - by Ellie M. Photography Cover photo by E.A. Creative Photography