TravBuddy Top 10 "Off-The-Beaten-Path" California Tourist Destinations for 2008

– Wanderlust

TravBuddy Top 10 "Off-The-Beaten-Path" California Tourist Destinations for 2008

We analyzed tens of thousands of travel photos and travel blogs contributed by TravBuddy members during the year to come up with this list of "off-the-beaten-path" tourist destinations within California. Cities with populations of over 60,000 residents were also excluded, in order to highlight lesser known destinations. If we missed one of your favorite places, please feel leave us a comment with your suggestions!

1. Monterey - Cities along Highway 1 were a popular theme, and TravBuddies went to Monterey to check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium and for the scenic drives.

Photo: deesje1

2. Santa Cruz - Monterey’s northern cousin was also very popular for hiking, the boardwalk and beaches during the summer months.

Photo: portia

3. Palm Springs - Popular Labor Day weekend destination among TravBuddies for hiking, dining and as a local escape from Los Angeles.

Photo: jenn79

4. Lake Tahoe - Lake Tahoe is known for its snow sports, but it was also popular during the summer months for water-skiing, hiking, fishing, and exploring nearby “ice caves.”

Photo: hurch

5. Napa Valley - This wine-tasting mecca was a favorite weekend getaway for Bay Area natives.

Photo: princessbride029

6. Joshua Tree National Park - TravBuddies endured attacks by flying bats to witness beautiful sunrises and spectacular hiking among the alien landscape of Joshua trees.

Photo: jenn79

7. San Simeon - Hearst Castle was a popular stop, as were the 2-ton elephant seals that gather along the shores here.

Photo: hannajax

8. Laguna Beach - Beautiful beaches and the annual Festival of the Arts made this laid back community another favorite along Highway 1.

Photo: mellemel8

9. Big Sur – Despite the fires, solitude, star-gazing, and hiking made Big Sur a favorite among those seeking a little more peace, quiet and isolation.

Photo: thenewextrememimi