Introduction

The Golden State has it all sun-kissed beaches, soaring granite mountain tops, vibrant metropolitan areas, and a 13,000-year-old history that puts other states to shame. While the south is famed for its shoreline and endless hours of sunshine, the eastern part of the state is wild, with ancient redwood forests and mountain ridges that extend as far as the eye can see. And lets not forget Northern California with its winding coastal cliffs, vineyard-covered valleys, and bustling high-tech cities. There are not many places in the world that encompass such a diverse array of landscapes, landmarks, or natural wonders the way California does.