As we watch our vacation budgets carefully, a question that arises is “Where’s a great destination with lots of variety?” I might suggest you consider a SoCal vacation. It’s got the beaches, theme parks, roller coasters, Hollywood and lots more.

Hawaii would be another option. Although those warm beaches are hard to resist, there’s not as much variety in vacation options as California. Here is an article that discusses the differences between Hawaiian vacations and Southern California vacations. In Southern California you don’t need to worry as much about underwater rocks; also, the humidity is generally lower and the sunshine less intimidating. You’ll find the ocean water to be warmer in the Aloha State, but the cooler California water might actually seem more inviting on a hot summer day.

Hawaii does have an advantage with such beautiful natural countryside and vegetation, enhanced by the local Polynesian culture. However, the California coastline, mountains and desert are quite beautiful as well, and the place is a melting pot of cultural diversity.

The beaches are just one of many attractions to be enjoyed in Southern California. You could spend a week checking out the seven top-notch theme parks between San Diego and Los Angeles County. Knott’s Berry Farm and Magic Mountain offer some great roller coasters, among many other attractions. You’ll discover many intimidating coasters and thrill rides at Knott’s and Six Flags. You won’t find as many true thrill rides at Disneyland as at the other parks, although Space Mountain and the Matterhorn Bobsleds certainly qualify.

Hawaii does not offer roller coasters, but does offer surfing on the North Shore of Oahu in the wintertime. It may be that California offers more ways to trim the budget, but sometimes there are great Hawaii vacation packages to be found on the internet or in the newspaper Travel section.

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