Things to do / Travel Guide
Thanks in no small part to the diversity of the geography in the region, there are several different kinds of adventure-related opportunities throughout the area. Some of the more prominent highlights of this region include surfing off the coast of the Monterey Peninsula, hot air ballooning over the scenic Napa Valley, as well as spectacular helicopter tours over the city and bay of San Francisco.
Hot Air Ballooning over Napa Valley and Sonoma County
Perhaps the best way to take in the scenic beauty of the Napa Valley is from above, and hot air ballooning the best ways to do it. The Napa Valley is one of the busiest hot air ballooning corridor on earth thanks in no small part to central California's relatively temperate weather conditions which are not prone, especially during the summer months, to sudden, unexpected changes. Also, the balloon can be made to land at the winery of your choice (or it can land anywhere else where a ground crew can whisk you away to the winery of your choice).
To take a hot air balloon trip over the beautiful Napa Valley wine country, be prepared to wake up early in the morning and to spend a least an hour chasing the winds through the sky. Also, get ready to spend no less than $200 for the privilege, but transportation from your hotel is usually provided.
Helicopter Flights over San Francisco
Some more great adventure ideas can be found in San Francisco, which is home to a world-famous skyline and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. One of the best ways to take in all the sights of the area is by hopping aboard a helicopter and heading for the skies. Although generally expensive (over $100 per person), helicopter flight tours over San Francisco can give you a bird's eye-view of Sausalito, Berkeley, Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, the Coit Tower, the Transamerica Building, and, of course, the Pacific Ocean coastline. Keep in mind that most tours have a two-passenger minimum per tour.
Surfing the Mavericks in Half Moon Bay
Some of the biggest waves ever have been ridden 100 miles off the coast of California. Mavericks is a world famous surfing location off the coast near Half Moon Bay, serious surfers love to “hang 10” at this renowned spot. Ever since, adventure surfing thrill-seekers have flocked to Mavericks to take advantage of 25-feet high waves and to tempt fate as they surf through very potentially hazardous conditions.
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