Tag: HiddenGem - Page 2

#HiddenGem

Robin Nichols

🦋 Monarch Butterfly Nature Preserve 🦋

🦋 **Monarch Butterfly Nature Preserve** 🦋 Just a short drive from the Bay Area, you can visit Santa Cruz to witness the stunning sight of clusters of Monarch butterflies taking refuge in the eucalyptus trees during the winter months. 🌳🦋🌳 💲 **Parking Details** 💲 The official parking lot charges a fee of $10 per vehicle. 🚗💵 🌊 **After Butterfly-Watching** 🌊 Post-butterfly watching, you can take a walk down the trail to the nearby beach for a stroll or even a BBQ. It's a great weekend getaway spot! 🏖️🍖🚶‍♀️ 📍 **Location** 📍 The destination is Natural Bridges State Beach, located at 2531 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA 🗺️ #MonarchButterfly #NaturePreserve #SantaCruz #WinterMigration #EucalyptusTrees #NaturalBridgesStateBeach #WeekendGetaway #BBQ #ParkingFee #HiddenGem

Christian Russo

🦋Hidden Gem: Monarch Butterfly Nature Preserve

🦋 **Monarch Butterfly Nature Preserve: A Hidden Gem** Experience a natural spectacle at the Monarch Butterfly Nature Preserve, where monarch butterflies 🦋 migrate every year between November and January. **A Tranquil Trail** Aside from the butterflies, you can enjoy a quiet, lovely trail 🌳 perfect for a serene walk. **Admission and Hours** Remember, the official parking lot charges a $10 admission fee. They're open until sunset 🌅 even on holidays like Christmas! **Location Details** Find this gem at Natural Bridges Monarch Trail, located at 2531 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA 📍. #MonarchButterflyNaturePreserve #ButterflyMigration #SantaCruz #NatureLovers #OutdoorAdventures #HiddenGem #NaturalBridgesMonarchTrail #VisitCalifornia

Steven Arnold

Hidden Gem in SF Bay Area

🌿 Pulgas Water Temple 🌿 Located in Redwood City, California, just a quick 30-minute drive from San Francisco, Pulgas Water Temple is a hidden gem in the Bay Area. This small park offers a serene escape with its beautiful monument, blue pool, lush green lawn, and rows of majestic cypress trees. If you visit during the right season, you may even find lavenders adding a touch of color to the scenery. Whether you're looking for a spot for a photoshoot, a peaceful picnic, or simply a quiet place to relax, Pulgas Water Temple is the perfect destination. ✨ Quick Facts about Pulgas Water Temple: ✨ - Address: 56 Cañada Rd, Redwood City, CA - Open Monday - Friday (Pedestrian access available to hikers, bikers, and equestrians on Saturday and Sunday) - Operating hours: 9 am - 5 pm - Note: The parking lot is closed on Saturdays and Sundays - Admission: Free - Free 30-minute parking available 💧 Engineering Marvel 💧 This captivating monument holds historical significance in the San Francisco Bay Area. San Francisco built the Pulgas Water Temple as a tribute to the engineering marvel that brought Hetch Hetchy water from the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the region, spanning over 160 miles. The ambitious Hetch Hetchy Project, which cost $102 million and took 24 years to complete, endured even through the Great Depression. So, if you're seeking an enchanting and peaceful spot in the Bay Area, look no further than Pulgas Water Temple. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in both natural beauty and the legacy of the region's past. #PulgasWaterTemple #HiddenGem #BayArea #RedwoodCity #SanFrancisco #Landmark #EngineeringMarvel #HistoricalSpot #PeacefulGetaway #Park

Mrs. Andrea Ayala

STEAM TRAIN

🚂🌳 Tilden Park Steam Train: Bay Area's Hidden Gem in Orinda, California 🌳🚂 Located in Contra-Costa County near Berkeley, the Tilden Park Steam Train at the Redwood Valley Railway is truly a hidden gem. Offering scenic rides along a ridge on a scaled-down steam train, it's the perfect activity to enjoy with family and friends. Here's what makes it so special: 🌲 Enjoy the Beauty: As you ride the steam train, you'll experience the stunning natural surroundings. The train passes through majestic redwoods, beautiful wildflowers, and even offers breathtaking views of the bay. Keep your eyes peeled, as you might spot a deer or two! 👶 Fun for the Little Ones: The Tilden Park Steam Train is toddler-friendly. It's a fantastic opportunity to introduce young children to the joy of train rides and create lasting memories. ✨ Hobby Train: Besides the steam train, there's also a shorter hobby train that runs on Sundays from 12-3 pm. This train is free and operates through donations, making it a great option for budget-conscious families. 🏞️ Tilden Park: The whole park itself is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway. With various amenities, nature trails, and picnic areas, you can plan a full day of fun-filled activities and immerse yourself in nature's beauty. 📍 Location and Hours: - Address: 2481 Grizzly Peak Blvd, Orinda, CA - Admission: $4 per person (free for children under 2); 5 tickets for $16 (cash or card accepted) - Opening Hours: Weekends (Saturday and Sunday) from 11 am to 6 pm during non-summer months. Summer vacation and spring break weekday hours are 11 am to 5 pm, operating all 7 days. - Parking: Convenient parking is available. Discover the hidden treasure of the Bay Area at Tilden Park Steam Train in Orinda, California. Plan your visit today and be prepared for a memorable ride through nature's wonders! 🌲🚂 #BayArea #HiddenGem #FamilyFun #ScenicRides #OutdoorActivities #NatureLovers #OrindaCA #TildenPark #SteamTrain #WeekendGetaway

Steven Arnold

A Cozy secret Japanese-Style Yakitori Restaurant in San Francisco

Noren Izakaya is a hidden gem where you can gather with friends and enjoy an authentic Japanese atmosphere. The hand-drawn menu is charming, featuring illustrated chicken skewers and various dishes that pique my interest. Compared to other izakayas, the menu here is not extensive, but the quality is good. I highly recommend the Spicy Kimchi Stir-Fried Pork, as the tangy kimchi complements the skewers well. The Grilled Chicken Skin is incredibly crispy and the crispiest I've ever had. The Sashimi is optional and nothing to write home about. As for the Yakitori skewers: - Almost all of them are delicious, especially the ones with organ meats. - The grilled mushrooms are flavorful and tasty. - The grilled scallops are a must-try, they are huge! - I had high expectations for the Bacon-wrapped Mochi, but it turned out to be way too salty. - The Beef Tongue is fantastic! It has a tender and crispy texture. - Even the simplest Chicken Wings are incredibly delicious! Overall, this place is perfect for a casual gathering with friends, with its authentic Japanese style and attention to detail that captures the essence of Japanese culture. The bar area itself exudes the same charm. #BayAreaLife #WeekendInBayArea #GlobalFoodies #Yakitori #BayAreaCuisine #SiliconValleyFood #FoodieLife #ProductRecommendation #JapaneseGrilledBird #JapaneseIzakaya #MustVisitYakitoriRestaurant #HiddenGem

Christian Russo

Star of the Sea Church

This place is a small, neat hidden gem in the area, offering one of the few Latin Masses around! What primarily draws me to it is its fresh and elegant Greek Mediterranean architectural style. The main body of the church is in stark white, complemented by blue lines and decorations, truly showcasing the beauty of blue-and-white combination! I wonder if one could book this place for a wedding ceremony, it'd definitely make for a lifetime of beautiful memories. Cost: Free to visit, coin metered street parking! Open: Everyday from 6:00am-5:30pm! ⚠️ This is a place of religious faith, please maintain silence when taking photos and touring. 🚩Star of the Sea Church 4420 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94118 #StarOfTheSeaChurch #HiddenGem #GreekMediterraneanArchitecture #LatinMass #WeddingVenue #SanFrancisco #ReligiousFaith #BeautifulMemories

Robin Nichols

San Francisco Travel Diary•Hidden Gem The Wave Organ

Top underrated treasure spot recommendation in San Fran: The Wave Organ! Few people, breathtaking views, and even photography beginners can snap amazing shots! Origin of the spot: Designed by artists in 1986, it's made up of winding cement pipes leading down to the seabed, as seen in pics 4/5. Lean in close and you can hear the beautiful natural melody of the waves - they say it's most audible during the full moon! Its geographic location is "tricky" - it is right next to the Golden Gate Yacht Club. Don't be deterred by the sign stating "Members Only" at the entrance, it's open to everyone and you can bring your dogs too! Other features: * A lighthouse, pic 6, built from rocks, has a strong classical vibe! * Beach area, pic 8, where the entrance of the harbor is there's a little sandy beach where you can play in the sand with kids, swim with dogs, and watch as yachts glide past you. In summary, it's a must-visit site! Not only can you gaze at Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz (Devil's Island), but you can also stop by nearby attractions, such as the Palace of Fine Arts, Fort Mason Center, and the expensive Presidio neighborhood. It's ideal for station-hopping [ShyR]! 🚩The Wave Organ 83 Marina Green Dr, San Francisco, CA 94123 #SanFranciscoTravel #HiddenGem #TheWaveOrgan #UnderratedTreasure #PhotographySpot #FullMoonMelody #GoldenGateYachtClub #MustVisit

Robin Nichols

Castle Rock State Park: Hiking Adventures!

Section 1: Hidden Beauty Nestled above San Jose, Castle Rock State Park is a captivating hidden gem that often goes unnoticed. Its promise of climbing opportunities amidst colossal rocks drew me in for a short 1.5-mile hike to Castle Rock and the Castle Rock Falls Overlook. Section 2: Exploring the Trail Off Highway 35, I found myself welcomed by a small parking lot. The $8 fee felt like a small investment in preserving this hidden sanctuary. As I embarked on the Castle Rock Trail, a shaded quarter-mile path, a picturesque landscape of trees and moss surrounded me, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Section 3: Discovering Castle Rock Navigating a dirt road and turning right, I encountered various rocks, initially unsure if I had reached Castle Rock. Fortunately, guidance from a fellow adventurer who was teaching his son to climb confirmed that I was in the right place. Castle Rock stood majestically before me, with its intricate features including expansive caves, inviting me to explore for a solid 15 minutes. I couldn't help but feel the desire to return for more climbing adventures. Section 4: Chasing Waterfalls Though the dirt offshoots occasionally confused the trail, I trusted the well-trodden path and eventually reached the Saratoga Gap trail sign. Taking a left turn, I descended alongside a babbling creek, treating my eyes to enchanting views through the trees. Crossing a quaint bridge, it didn't take long for me to reach the Castle Rock Falls Overlook. While the waterfall might not always steal the spotlight, its charm becomes undeniable after rainfall. Section 5: A Hidden Gem Castle Rock State Park truly exceeded my expectations. Happy trails, fellow adventurers! May your journeys be filled with wonder as you explore this hidden gem. #CastleRockStatePark #HikingAdventures #NaturesBeauty #OutdoorExploration #HiddenGem #WaterfallWonder #ClimbingOpportunities #TranquilityInTheWild #HappyTrails #NatureLovers

Mrs. Andrea Ayala

🏞️ Johnny McNally's Fairview Lodge: A Hidden Gem by the Kern River 🏕️

If you're on a road trip near the Sequoia National Forest, make sure to check out Johnny McNally's Fairview Lodge. Nestled along the picturesque Kern River, this gem offers a unique experience with its lodge, restaurant, and general store. Here's what we discovered during our visit: 🛌 Cozy Rooms with a Rustic Charm: Johnny McNally's offers cozy rooms with a rustic yet comfortable vibe. Each room is equipped with 2 full-size beds, a shower, free toiletries, and an air-conditioning/heating system. And yes, they are pet-friendly too! Stay connected with the free WIFI and conveniently store your snacks in the mini fridge. ♻️ Rich History and Repurposed Lumber: Did you know that this spot has a fascinating history? It was named after Johnny McNalley, a rancher who settled in the Kern River Valley in the 1930s. The lodge itself carries elements of this history, with 3 renovated rooms featuring headboards, countertops, and shelves made from re-purposed lumber. This lumber was sourced from the original rooms and milled at the historic Johnsondale Mill in the 1950s. So, if you're looking to make a pit stop while exploring the Sequoia National Forest, don't miss out on Johnny McNally's Fairview Lodge. Enjoy the beauty of the Kern River, indulge in delicious food at their restaurant, and grab some essentials at their general store. It's a hidden gem worth exploring! #RoadTrip #LodgeLife #KernRiverValley #SequoiaNationalForest #RusticCharm #HistoricSpots #PetFriendly #CozyRooms #LocalExperience #HiddenGem

Christopher Gilbert

Bay Area Weekend | Fairy Tale Neighborhood Built with Ironwork and Gardening 💐

🏘️ Sebastopol: A Hidden Gem Near the Bay Area 🎨 Ironwork and Gardening: A Fairy Tale Neighborhood 🌻 Florence Ave: The Hub of Junk Art - Every house on Florence Ave is adorned with unique ironwork art created by Patrick Amiot and Brigitte Laurent - Junk Art creations are made using repurposed materials and painted by hand - Each artwork is a whimsical representation of characters from fairy tales 🐷 The Pink Pig Mailbox - A charming mailbox in the shape of a pig 🐷 that adds a touch of whimsy to the neighborhood 🦉 The Exquisite Owl - An intricately designed owl 🦉 that showcases the artistic talent and attention to detail 🐸 The Colorful Frog Prince - The vibrant colors of the Frog Prince 🐸 create an eye-catching centerpiece in the neighborhood 💀 Unexpected Surprises - Prepare to be surprised by the occasional appearance of characters like a motorcycle-riding skeleton - Each artwork is a creative amalgamation of various repurposed materials, such as flashlights, watch straps, and nails, forming a harmonious whole ♻️ Art from Recycling - These ironwork artworks are not just aesthetic but also eco-friendly as they are made from recycled materials 🌟 Tips for Visiting: - Be mindful of the residents' privacy, respect their quiet lifestyle, and avoid opening the ironwork mailbox - Maintain a respectful distance from the artworks and front yards 📍 Florence Avenue Art Walk - Location: Florence Ave, Sebastopol, CA 95472 - Driving distance from the Bay Area: Approximately 1.5-2 hours 🔎 #Sebastopol #BayAreaWeekend #IronworkArt #JunkArt #WhimsicalNeighborhood #RecycledArt #FairyTaleVibes #ArtisticCreativity #HiddenGem #ExploreLocal