State Bliss Blog — outdoors

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

Sun, fun, and swimsuits are just around the corner. The big question is: are you ready for the beach? California offers some of the most beautiful beaches on the West Coast. With warm weather quickly approaching, fitting into that perfect swimsuit or pair of trunks is a must. We've got some fitness tips and tricks to share so you'll be ready for the beach just in time for summer!

California Meal Tips

Eating out: Everyone loves a great meal and there is nothing better than going out with friends, but eating out all the time can hurt your chances of being ready for the beach this summer. Some things to consider when you eat out:

• What are you ordering? Check out the lighter menu options.
• Do you know what's in your dish? Restaurants add a lot of fattening ingredients - watch things like dressings, sauces, and side dishes.
• Whats a true portion size? They make take-out boxes for a reason!
• Do you really need dessert? Usually, the answer is no.

[caption id="attachment_707" align="alignleft" width="414"] Flickr-RoOoNa[/caption]   Make it at home: Life is busy, but don't underestimate making your meals at home. Try making a salad the night before or bagging fruits and veggies as a snack or meal for the next day. Snacks: What are you snacking on? Sometimes we just crave something sweet or salty and that gets us in trouble.   Check out these snack substitutes:

• Unsalted nuts in place of greasy chips
• Carrots in place of Chex Mix
• Fruit in place of a frappuccino
• One serving of dark chocolate in place of a candy bar
• Chew gum when you aren't hungry but feel the need to snack

California Fitness Tips

[caption id="attachment_711" align="alignleft" width="284"] Flickr-bangkokrecorder.com[/caption] Take the stairs: It may seem too early to trek all the way up to your office but it's definitely a great decision to get you ready for the beach! Take a walk: It's easy to stay in one spot all day. Consider using a portion (or all) of your lunch break to take a walk! The exercise will energize you and help you avoid an afternoon slump. Say no to soda: Cut out this sugary drink and replace it with water to see the results for yourself. This could make the difference in losing the last few pounds you can't seem to get rid of!

California Workouts to Help You Get Ready for the Beach

Cardio Cali Style: However you like to fit it in, carido is a vital part of any workout routine. Instead of running on a treadmill, try getting your cardio in California-Style. Some suggestions: biking, rollerblading, beach volleyball, or Ultimate Frisbee. The more you involve your friends, the more exciting these actives will be. Strength Training: Don't underestimate the power of adding weights to any workout routine. Ladies may shy away from this, but adding weights to your workout doesn't mean you'll bulk up like a body builder. It will, however, mean toning, definition, and weight loss. [caption id="attachment_710" align="aligncenter" width="558"] Flicrk-Fitness First Germany[/caption]

Gym or no gym - that is the question: Can't seem to make it to the gym? Uninspired by staring at a blank wall? Try your workout outside. The fresh air, scenery, and visual stimulation can be a great motivator. Also try working out in groups. It's great motivation and perfect for accountability.

Have we inspired you? What keeps you motivated and ready for the beach?

Cover Photo: Flickr-Lumperjack

This summer, Shasta Lake should top your vacation hot spot list! There is so much to do and see that you won't be sorry you ventured to beautiful Northern California for the summer. Check out these actives guaranteed to satisfy everyone in your family, from the dare devil to the adventurer.

Shasta Lake

Located about 12 miles north of Redding, California, Shasta Lake is a popular vacation spot for families and groups from all over California. With its deep emerald waters nestled among lush pine forests, this lake is perfect for relaxing or enjoying your favorite water activity. Take a picnic lunch and use one of the many day-use areas. Use fees generally run about $6 for a day of fun! Flickr-Amitanjan

Houseboat Fun

Whether you're a seasoned houseboat adventurer or willing to try something new this summer, Shasta Lake is definitely the place to venture out on a houseboat to beat the summer heat. Check out this link for businesses that rent houseboats on Shasta Lake. A great way to bring the cost down is to consider joining up with several friends to rent a houseboat and then split the cost. It's fun and cost efficient! Flickr-wrek23

Camping and Lodging

The great outdoors of Shasta Lake are calling to you! It's time to pack up your tent or hook up your trailer and make the trek to one of the more than 15 campgrounds surrounding Shasta Lake in the beautiful Shasta-Trinity National Forest (find a list of them here). Not a fan of that much outdoor activity? Don't worry - there are other options for staying close to Shasta Lake. You can rent a cabin or cottage near the lake, stay in a hotel or motel, or even stay in a vacation rental near the lake.

Shasta Lake Water Activities

Whether it's swimming, boating, water-skiing, fishing, or a combination of these things, Shasta Lake has it all. Bring your own toys (boats, water skis, fishing equipment) or rent them there.

Hiking and mountain biking

When you're not out on the water, you can explore the various hiking and biking trails in the forests surrounding Shasta Lake. Make sure you take a snack, some water, and your camera because you'll never want to forget the beauty of the Shasta-Trinity Forest!

Cave Adventure

While you're out enjoying the natural beauty of Shasta Lake, you need to plan a visit to the Shasta Caverns. After taking a boat ride across the lake and a comfortable bus ride up the hill to the mouth of the caverns, you will be awed with the natural beauty of the limestone and the rich history behind the caverns discovery. This is a great excursion for any individual, family, or group. With prices ranging between $14 to $24 you can't pass this up! Check out their website for specific information and to purchase tickets online.

Photo Ben Wiggins

Shopping

Not everyone enjoys being outdoors all the time. If you find yourself in that position and want a change from nature to civilization, check out the city of Redding California not too far away. There is a cinema, mall, and many popular restaurants too choose from. Source: USDA Forest Service Shasta-Trinty Site and ShastaLake.comCover Photo: Flickr - Rene Rivers Cover photo: From Flickr - Rene Rivers

The hottest Southern California Festivals for 2014 are here! It's time to get out your calendar and start marking in your weekend plans. Remember all those things you promised you were going to get around to doing? The summer of 2014 is the perfect time to do them! Check out this list of festivals and explore new foods, fun entertainment, live music, and even homemade crafts and art. No matter what your budget is, or your time-off, there is an option for you in this list.

Southern California Festivals

April 5-6 | Scandinavian Festival of Southern California in Thousand Oaks: Come explore all things Scandinavian: food, traditions, and art. Admission $7.50.  April 11 | The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio: Better known to music fans as Coachella, this three day festival will satisfy all of your musical cravings! Admission price ranges depending on show and seat location. Find tickets online. [caption id="attachment_517" align="aligncenter" width="690"] Flickr-Moby[/caption] April 18-20 | Catalina Art Fair and Exhibition on Catalina Island: This art fair known as CAFE lasts three days and will have a host of vendors showing off their handmade crafts and arts. April 25-26 | Stagecoach Country Music Festival in Indio: This festival is a must for Country music lovers. This year featured artists include Eric Church, Jason Aldean, and Luke Bryan among other artists. Admission varies depending on ticket availability. May 8 | WorldFest in Lake Balboa: An earth-day festival to rival all others. Admission is currently $8 but goes up to $12 on May 1st so order online soon! May 25-26 | JazzReggae Festival in Los Angeles: LA is known for its music scene so it's only fitting that you plan on attending the JazzReggae Festival. Plus, their website is just amazing. Admission tickets go on sale in April. May 30, 31, June 1 | Balloon and Wine Festival in Temecula: From wine tasting to musical entertainment, not to mention the hot air balloons, this event is a must for your summer plans. Bring your kids and pretend you're in the movie Up. Admission varies but the range is between $15 and $25. [caption id="attachment_645" align="aligncenter" width="580"] From Adventure Flights[/caption] [caption id="attachment_646" align="alignleft" width="300"] From Souplantation[/caption] July 25-27 | Garlic Festival in Gilroy: Vampires beware! The sixth annual Garlic Festival, titled the "Ultimate Summer Food Fair" will offer drinks, food, and local arts and crafts booths. You may consider bringing an extra box of mints...or two. Admission is $20. July 26-27 | Watermelon Festival in Pasadena: When it comes to summer, there is no better treat than ice-cold watermelon. Join in the fun at the Watermelon Festival. Admission is $8 if purchased online or $10 at the gate. Note that parking is $4. Which Southern California festivals are you planning on attending for 2014? Unfortunately, this is not an exhaustive list. Is there a festival you love attending that we missed? Share the details in the comments below! October 3 | Avocado Festival in Carpinteria: Have a love affair with avocados like we do? Then mark your calendars for the Avocado Festival. Admission is free. Cover Photo of Coachella from Flickr by Tana Ferguson

Spring break is right around the corner and Half Moon Bay Hostel at the Pigeon Point Lighthouse may be the perfect destination for you. Located 50 miles south of San Francisco and a little over a half hour north of Santa Cruz, this rustic lighthouse-turned-hostel is a memorable place to stay. Pigeon Point Light House | Flickr-James Balingit

Pigeon Point Lighthouse

Seated on a cliff overlooking the ocean, the Pigeon Point Lighthouse, built in 1872, was renovated by HI-USA to form the perfect hostel. Despite the age of the lighthouse, the Half Moon Bay Hostel has all the modern amenities like indoor lounges, ready-to-use kitchens, free parking, and WiFi. Step outside your door and you'll be met with a breathtaking view. Not far from the hostel you can explore tidepools, cove beaches, and a welcoming oceanfront boardwalk. Whale watching is also a popular activity and not far away you can see northern elephant seals at the Año Nuevo State Reserve. Half Moon Bay | Flickr-michael fliippoff

Half Moon Bay Hostel: Travelers Guide

Have we convinced you to plan a trip to the Half Moon Bay Hostel? If so, here are a few things to consider when planning your trip:

• There aren't grocery stores close by so make sure to stop on your way to the Lighthouse
• If you're an overnight guest, you can rent a hot tub for $7 per half hour but you need to sign up when you check-in and there is a two person minimum so no solo 'tubing ;)
• Lockers are available with locks to keep your personal items safe
• If you're bringing a group of 8+ (or meeting up at the hostel) call ahead to make a group reservation
• You can make your reservation online
• If you don't mind sharing, some options are less than $30 a night - a great bargain but make sure you book early. Dates fill up quickly.

Spring Break at Half Moon Bay Hostel

Spending your spring break at the Half Moon Bay Hostel? Check out some of these fun options for entertainment: Half Moon Bay Golf Course: If you love to golf, this ocean side golf course may be the thing to splurge on. Not only do they have a stellar course, but they also offer private lessons, events, group hosting, and fine dining. If you also happen to be planning a wedding they have a beautiful venue to offer. Half Moon Bay Golf Links - Old Course Half Moon Bay Historic Main Street: Take a quick 20 mile drive up the coast and spend some time on Half Moon Bay's historic main street. Boasting local restaurants, small boutiques, and antique shops, Half Moon Bay has a lot to offer for such a small town. Plan it just right and you can visit the Coastal Repertory Theatre showcasing local talent or possibly attend a cooking class hosted at The Ritz-Carlton. Butano State Park:  Only six miles from the Half Moon Bay Hostel, you can spend an entire day exploring the beautiful hiking trails of Butano State park in the California Redwoods. Santa Cruz: Only 27 miles down the coast is the charming and quirky town of Santa Cruz. There is an abundance of things to do in Santa Cruz limited only by your time and resources. Ride a bike, explore the boardwalk, ride a skate board, visit the Museum of Art and History, or rent a Kayak and go on an adventure. Check out the city website for current events. Santa Cruz Boardwalk | Flickr-Scott Schrantz Swanton Berry Farm: Do you love strawberries? Just 15 minutes from the Half Moon Bay Hostel is the Swanton Berry Farm. This berry farm, founded in 1983, is certified organic and gives you the option to 'Pick Your Own' berries (season starts in May) or purchase them from the Farm Stand. Check out their website for current info on locations and opening dates.

* * *

No matter what you do, make sure to take time to relax on your visit to the Half Moon Bay Hostel at Pigeon Point Lighthouse. After all, spring break is supposed to be a vacation right? Flowers at Half Moon Bay | Flickr-Siva Subramanian Vasanth Source Hostelling International  and NorCal Hostels Cover photo by ronnietan15Spring break is right around the corner and Half Moon Bay Hostel at the Pigeon Point Lighthouse may be the perfect destination for you. Located 50 miles south of San Francisco and a little over a half hour north of Santa Cruz, this rustic lighthouse-turned-hostel is a memorable place to stay. Pigeon Point Light House | Flickr-James Balingit

Pigeon Point Lighthouse

Seated on a cliff overlooking the ocean, the Pigeon Point Lighthouse, built in 1872, was renovated by HI-USA to form the perfect hostel. Despite the age of the lighthouse, the Half Moon Bay Hostel has all the modern amenities like indoor lounges, ready-to-use kitchens, free parking, and WiFi. Step outside your door and you'll be met with a breathtaking view. Not far from the hostel you can explore tidepools, cove beaches, and a welcoming oceanfront boardwalk. Whale watching is also a popular activity and not far away you can see northern elephant seals at the Año Nuevo State Reserve. Half Moon Bay | Flickr-michael fliippoff

Half Moon Bay Hostel: Travelers Guide

Have we convinced you to plan a trip to the Half Moon Bay Hostel? If so, here are a few things to consider when planning your trip:

• There aren't grocery stores close by so make sure to stop on your way to the Lighthouse
• If you're an overnight guest, you can rent a hot tub for $7 per half hour but you need to sign up when you check-in and there is a two person minimum so no solo 'tubing ;)
• Lockers are available with locks to keep your personal items safe
• If you're bringing a group of 8+ (or meeting up at the hostel) call ahead to make a group reservation
• You can make your reservation online
• If you don't mind sharing, some options are less than $30 a night - a great bargain but make sure you book early. Dates fill up quickly.

Spring Break at Half Moon Bay Hostel

Spending your spring break at the Half Moon Bay Hostel? Check out some of these fun options for entertainment: Half Moon Bay Golf Course: If you love to golf, this ocean side golf course may be the thing to splurge on. Not only do they have a stellar course, but they also offer private lessons, events, group hosting, and fine dining. If you also happen to be planning a wedding they have a beautiful venue to offer. Half Moon Bay Golf Links - Old Course Half Moon Bay Historic Main Street: Take a quick 20 mile drive up the coast and spend some time on Half Moon Bay's historic main street. Boasting local restaurants, small boutiques, and antique shops, Half Moon Bay has a lot to offer for such a small town. Plan it just right and you can visit the Coastal Repertory Theatre showcasing local talent or possibly attend a cooking class hosted at The Ritz-Carlton. Butano State Park:  Only six miles from the Half Moon Bay Hostel, you can spend an entire day exploring the beautiful hiking trails of Butano State park in the California Redwoods. Santa Cruz: Only 27 miles down the coast is the charming and quirky town of Santa Cruz. There is an abundance of things to do in Santa Cruz limited only by your time and resources. Ride a bike, explore the boardwalk, ride a skate board, visit the Museum of Art and History, or rent a Kayak and go on an adventure. Check out the city website for current events. Santa Cruz Boardwalk | Flickr-Scott Schrantz Swanton Berry Farm: Do you love strawberries? Just 15 minutes from the Half Moon Bay Hostel is the Swanton Berry Farm. This berry farm, founded in 1983, is certified organic and gives you the option to 'Pick Your Own' berries (season starts in May) or purchase them from the Farm Stand. Check out their website for current info on locations and opening dates.

* * *

No matter what you do, make sure to take time to relax on your visit to the Half Moon Bay Hostel at Pigeon Point Lighthouse. After all, spring break is supposed to be a vacation right? Flowers at Half Moon Bay | Flickr-Siva Subramanian Vasanth Source Hostelling International  and NorCal Hostels Cover photo by ronnietan15