The United States is a vast and fascinating wonderland that boasts some of the most brilliant destinations in the world, but each of its regions is decidedly unique. While the Midwest, East Coast, and Southern states all offer plenty of incredible sights and opportunities, there’s a certain sense of enchantment associated with the West Coast. Before you venture to this one-of-a-kind region, here are six tips to keep in mind.
- It’s not all sunshine and warm weather.
Flickr/jcookfisher The phrase “West Coast” often conjures images of California sunshine and beautiful beachfront getaways, but there’s so much more to this region than heat waves and shorelines. Don’t get us wrong: some of America’s Pacific coastline experiences pleasant temperatures throughout the year, but even Los Angeles itself experiences plenty of sweater weather. Venture a bit further north and you’ll even find snow - in fact, Alaska is technically part of the West Coast!
- It’s really, really big.
Flickr/Rian Castillo The West Coast is technically defined as containing California, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. Nearly 50 million people call this region home, and you could spend years exploring coastal states without ever seeing it all. This vastness means that the West Coast simply overflows with things to do, people to meet, and experiences to enjoy. Don’t make the mistake of solely associating the region with California.
- You’re in for some spectacular scenery.
Flickr/Mike Scott Sure, other areas of the United States are home to some incredible views, but the West Coast features endless otherworldly beauty that might just make you think you’ve landed on another planet. From the brilliant blues of the Pacific Ocean to the rocky shores of Big Sur and the cliffs of Washington state, there’s so much to see. Redwood forests, snow-capped mountains, rushing rivers - the list continues, and you’ll definitely want to bring your camera as you explore the flora and fauna of the West Coast.
- Its residents are proud of where they come from.
Flickr/johnrling From Oregonians to Californians, residents of America’s West Coast are fiercely proud of their roots. There’s an undeniable sense of adventure and pride that seems to be present in the blood of people from the West Coast, and you’ll find this loyalty inspiring. During your journey through the area, be prepared to interact with all sorts of locals who will excitedly boast about their breathtaking home states.
- There’s something for everyone.
Flickr/Tiffany Von Arnim Can’t get enough of nature? You’re in luck. Searching for a posh beachfront getaway? No problem. Ready to shop until you drop or dive deep into a historic site? Look no further. No matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find it on the West Coast. From campgrounds to concerts, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had throughout the region, and we think the variety here is second to none.
- You might never want to leave.
Flickr/Everett Carrico Once you’ve explored some of the West Coast’s most wonderful destinations, you might just feel the urge to pack your bags and move. After all, there’s a sense of magic associated with this brilliant region of the United States, and it’s only natural to crave some of this enchantment in your own life. We highly encourage taking the leap, whether you venture to the bustling streets of Los Angeles or the cool, rainy avenues of Seattle. The West Coast will certainly steal your heart.
Is there anything else that West Coast visitors should keep in mind before embarking on their journeys? We’re always eager to hear from you, so share your suggestions in the comment section below!
Flickr/jcookfisher
The phrase “West Coast” often conjures images of California sunshine and beautiful beachfront getaways, but there’s so much more to this region than heat waves and shorelines. Don’t get us wrong: some of America’s Pacific coastline experiences pleasant temperatures throughout the year, but even Los Angeles itself experiences plenty of sweater weather. Venture a bit further north and you’ll even find snow - in fact, Alaska is technically part of the West Coast!
Flickr/Rian Castillo
The West Coast is technically defined as containing California, Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. Nearly 50 million people call this region home, and you could spend years exploring coastal states without ever seeing it all. This vastness means that the West Coast simply overflows with things to do, people to meet, and experiences to enjoy. Don’t make the mistake of solely associating the region with California.
Flickr/Mike Scott
Sure, other areas of the United States are home to some incredible views, but the West Coast features endless otherworldly beauty that might just make you think you’ve landed on another planet. From the brilliant blues of the Pacific Ocean to the rocky shores of Big Sur and the cliffs of Washington state, there’s so much to see. Redwood forests, snow-capped mountains, rushing rivers - the list continues, and you’ll definitely want to bring your camera as you explore the flora and fauna of the West Coast.
Flickr/johnrling
From Oregonians to Californians, residents of America’s West Coast are fiercely proud of their roots. There’s an undeniable sense of adventure and pride that seems to be present in the blood of people from the West Coast, and you’ll find this loyalty inspiring. During your journey through the area, be prepared to interact with all sorts of locals who will excitedly boast about their breathtaking home states.
Flickr/Tiffany Von Arnim
Can’t get enough of nature? You’re in luck. Searching for a posh beachfront getaway? No problem. Ready to shop until you drop or dive deep into a historic site? Look no further. No matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find it on the West Coast. From campgrounds to concerts, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had throughout the region, and we think the variety here is second to none.
Flickr/Everett Carrico
Once you’ve explored some of the West Coast’s most wonderful destinations, you might just feel the urge to pack your bags and move. After all, there’s a sense of magic associated with this brilliant region of the United States, and it’s only natural to crave some of this enchantment in your own life. We highly encourage taking the leap, whether you venture to the bustling streets of Los Angeles or the cool, rainy avenues of Seattle. The West Coast will certainly steal your heart.
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