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

We love California here, but it's true that those living in Southern California say some pretty unique things. Residents in Southern California just have funny ways of acting and saying things. Just like any other state, you adapt to your surroundings. For most of Southern California, that's a laid-back, beach-culture that takes a relaxed approach to life. We've compiled a list of some of the more popular things Southern Californian's say and do. If you're from Southern California, you will definitely be able to relate to this list.

You may be from Southern California if...

You say: "I am so cold right now"

...and that's because it's below 65 degrees. Most of us living in Southern California just don't know what real cold is.

Flickr- Juliana Beletsis

You indicate directions by saying: "THE >>insert freeway number here<<"

In Southern California it's not uncommon to hear a phrase like, "Take the 5 to the 405 and get off at Sunset Blvd." We've adopted adding "the" before our freeway numbers. Don't ask why, we just do :)

You know what Carmageddon is.

Yep. Carmageddon. It's a thing. And if you're from Southern California you've probably heard of it. A while back, the 405 Freeway was closed a few times due to construction. The residents of Los Angeles who frequently (and dependently) use the 405 termed it Carmageddon...and it was awful.

More than 75% of your closet consists of tank tops, shorts, and flip-flops.

When it's close to a 100 degrees in February, and you technically live in the desert, what else are you going to do but pack away your light sweaters and break out the tank tops?

You say "no worries" on a regular basis.

It's no secret that people in Southern California are known for being relaxed, go-with-the-flow type of people. Some would say that translates to being perpetually late, dressing casually, or having a laid back attitude toward life. We would just attribute it to a "beach-living" mentality that says, "It's all good, go with the flow."

Flickr-Brian Wallace

You love In-N-Out.

In-N-Out is an obsession for almost everyone who lives in Southern California. You're probably familiar with phrases like "animal style", "double double", or "protein style" and, chances are, you have an unhealthy addiction to their secret sauce.

Find yourself thinking it's "normal" to see celebrities--everywhere!

For the rest of the U.S., it's not typical to be out to lunch and see a celebrity sitting two tables away. For us in Southern California, it can be a common occurrence, especially if you hang out at Hollywood hot spots like Nobu Los Angeles, Tavern, Pizzeria Mozza, or the ever-popular Intelligentsia.

Use the word "like" more than, like, necessary in a, like, sentence.

It's true. For us in Southern California, we like the word like. It, like, naturally drops into, like, conversation. It's like, weird.

Flickr-Laurent_Imagery

You've been called dude (no matter your gender).

This also works if you've called someone else a "dude" no matter their gender. It's common place for us in Southern California to use the term "dude" whether you're a guy or a girl. Dude, don't take offense. It's just the way we roll.

What about you? How many of these do you identify with?

Cover Photo: Flickr - Mark Eldridge

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

This list of Northern California Festivals for 2014 can help you plan out your Spring Break and summer plans. Whether you like trying new foods or exploring local arts and crafts booths, these festivals will give you a vast range of options to choose from. Russian River Jazz and Blues Festival

Northern California Festivals

April 12 | Banff Street Festival in Redding: This Street Fair has it all: rock climbing, outdoor recreation groups, local outfitters, and various vendors all out on the streets in front of the Cascade Theatre where the Banff Mountain Film Festival is held. Admission is free. April 19 | California Nut Festival in Chico: Go nuts for the California Nut Festival! This Northern California festival is perfect for foodies of all kinds with food and beverage tastings. Admission is $25 in advance (online) or $30 at the door. May 31 - June 1 | Summer Arts & Music Festival in Benbow: This arts and music festival, located among the beautiful California Redwoods, is the perfect weekend getaway. Camp nearby and enjoy great music, food, and local crafts.   Admission is $15 a day or $25 for both days. May 15-16 | Arts Festival in Arcata: Hosted during Humboldt State's graduation week, this is the perfect festival to attend as a new graduate! It features art exhibits, local crafts, and food provided by local businesses. Admission is $10 for adults $5 for kids with free parking. Flickr-Daphne June 6 | Oyster Festival in Arcata: Love Oysters? Then you have to check out this festival that's ranked seventh out of the top ten food festivals in the world. That's saying a lot of this small town in Northern California! There is lot to see and do during this festival so make sure to check out their sweet website. Admission is free. Oyster Festival June 15 |Fish Festival in Trinidad: Ever wanted to go inside a real lighthouse? Attend the Fish Festival in Trinidad and you can! You'll also be able to eat all the fish you can at discount prices! Admission is free. June 14-August 3 |  Lavender Farms in Mt. Shasta: Rows upon rows of beautiful lavender, lavender products, and a scent you'll never want to leave! Not quite a festival but something you'll definitely want to plan on seeing if you're in Northern California. Flickr-slicedgeek July 4-6 | Artisan Market and Street Fair Mt. Shasta: Every 4th of July Mount Shasta hosts a walk/run celebration and parade coupled with a Street Fair the rest of the weekend. Plan your visit to walk or run in the morning enjoying live music and vendor goodies and then visit the Street Fair after. Admission to the Street Fair is free. Check out the Mountain Runners website for registration info for the walk/run. July 26-27 | Westhaven Blackberry Festival in Trinidad: Pick up some blackberry jam or a pie while enjoying live music. Or you can enjoy a hamburger at this even to benefit the Westhaven Volunteer Fire Department.  September 20-21 | Russian River Jazz and Blues Festival in Guerneville: Admission is $50 with two day passes available for $80. Find events you're interested in? Did we miss one? Let us know in the comments below! Source: California's Redwood Coast Events Cover Photo from Flirckr-Humbolt Sate University

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