New Zealand has a reputation as a laid back easy going country due in part to its low population of approximately 4.4 million people, it’s wide open spaces and clean green image. This is complemented by the long narrow shape of the two islands that make up the country giving easy access to beautiful beaches.

This proximity to sand, sea and surf means there are numerous locations available for a relaxing holiday. Below are just some of the many to choose from.

Coopers Beach – Northland
Coopers Beach is located in the winterless North, near the top of the North Island, between Manogonui and Cable Bay. Boasting stunning views from the cliff that overlooks the white sand beach you’ll be entertained by dolphins frolicking in the ocean and may even see a pod of whales. Take a day trip to Cape Reinga, it’s about an hour and half north of Coopers Beach where you will see the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea meet. There are many accommodation options here including cliff top holiday homes with private access down to the beach.

Tolaga Bay – East Cape
Situated on the eastern cape of the North Island, Tolaga Bay is a sought after holiday destination and features New Zealand’s longest wharf, some 660m long, due to the shallow bay. It’s the perfect place to drop a line and catch some fish, one of the favoured pastimes for visitors and locals alike. With a strong Maori heritage it’s also a great place to learn more about the culture including traditional tattoo, carving and art. Staying at a campground is a great accommodation choice for the bay.

Kaikoura – Canterbury
Another great east coast location, this time in the South Island, is Kaikoura. With a name that translates to ‘to eat crayfish’ you can rest assured that seafood is a very important part of the district. They even hold an annual event to celebrate the bounty of the sea. Kaikoura is also world famous for its whale watching tours and these can often be combined with see dolphin and albatross. Choosing a Kaikoura Holiday Park to stay in during your visit provides you with flexible accommodation that’s easy on the pocket.

Fiordland – Southland
Simply one of the most visually stunning areas in New Zealand, Fiordland is home to a wonderful array of lakes such as Te Anau, Manapouri, Doubtful Sound and Milford Sound. This area is idea for those who love walking and hiking as the journey to these locations is often just as beautiful as the destination.

Do you need an answer to the question, “Can I go swimming with a yeast infection?” then read on…

Many people end up dealing with a yeast infection at some point in their life. The most common type is the vaginal infection, and many women end up having this problem at some point during adulthood.

While these infections are rarely a serious health issues, they can be very uncomfortable and frustrating. One of the most common questions that women have when they have a yeast infection is, if they can swim with one. So, let’s take a look at the answer to this question.

The short answer is, “Yes.” You can go swimming with no worries. While there are some considerations to keep in mind, swimming is not something that you have to take off of your calendar. First of all, it is important to understand that being in chlorinated water can actually lead to an infection, since the chlorine can disrupt the balance in the vaginal area, but this does not mean that swimming is off limits to you.

There are some considerations you must make. You see, if you do decide to go swimming while you have a yeast infection, there are several things to keep in mind. When you go swimming, it’s important that you get out of your bathing suit as soon as possible after you are done swimming.

The bathing suit when it is wet can end up promoting the growth of yeast, so you need to get out of it right away. Also, make sure that you dry off really well and especially make sure that the vulva area is completely dry. This way you won’t end up with an infection that gets worse because of the excess moisture.

When people ask, can I go swimming with an infection, often they want to know if they are going to contaminate the pool. The answer is no. You see, there are plenty of chemicals in pools that will make sure that you cannot transfer your problem to someone else. So, it is safe to go in the water without worrying that you’ll pass your infection on to someone that you are swimming with.

So, yes, you can go in the water, although you should be very careful about taking care of yourself when you’re done. Get the bathing suit off quickly, dry off good, and you should be just fine when you decide to get in the pool.

The Kwazulu-NatalProvince is a holidaymaker’s sub-tropical, beach and mountain paradise, the Kingdom of the Zulu has something for everyone set in magnificent natural beauty. Coast-to-coast the beaches and quaint villages attract sun worshippers who are drawn to the warm Indian ocean and all the pleasures it affords. Outdoor enthusiasts love to explore the two World Heritage sites, the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park and the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, as well as the game parks and famous battlefields. Diverse cultures, from the San bushmen with their rock art, Zulu villagers with their fearsome warriors and colourful dancing maidens, Griqua trekkers with their pioneering spirit and Indian restaurateurs with their hot, sought-after curries, enrich the province with a wide variety of experiences to be had. With all this on its doorstep, it is no wonder that Durban has become the top convention destination in Africa – a veritable antithesis of the all work, no play philosophy.

CLIMATE:

Coastal areas enjoy a sub-tropical climate with sunshine year round, although rain storms can occur in summer. The humidity is lower in June and July, making it ideal times to visit. Weather is also warm and sunny for most of the year in the Drakensberg, but in winter night time temperatures can drop below freezing and snowfalls are not uncommon. At Sodwana Bay, a world-class diving destination, conditions are good throughout the year, but best from April through to September. Water temperatures here are usually above 20 degrees Celsius and in summer can reach 29 degrees Celsius. The Midlands is a summer rain fall area with warm, sunny summers and cold winters, with night time temperatures dropping below zero in parts.

SHOPPING:

Shopping is an elevated activity in KZN with entire routes dedicated to this pleasure. The Midlands Meander offers a wide variety of arts and crafts including pottery, sculptures and leather-work, ideally interspersed with stops at cosy inns for a taste of country fare and home-made brews with names like ‘Pickled Pig’ or ‘Pie Eyed Possum’. Ethnic Zulu pieces on the beaches, cultural villages and curio centres e.g. the Workshop include intricate beadwork, wood carvings, baskets and pottery. In Durban, the choices vary from luxury shopping mall merchandise to downtown Indian markets where you’ll find the best curry spices in the country and quality African craft items at the African Art Centre at Tourist Junction. Also visit the Heritage Market in Hillcrest for more local goods. Other places to shop include: Point Waterfront Fleamarket, The Pavillion, Gateway Theatre of Shopping, La Lucia Mall.

TOP ATTRACTIONS DESCRIPTION:

uKhahlamba-Drakensberg:

Park A gigantic mountain range filled with eco treasures, this World Heritage Site also has outstanding cultural properties in the approx. 6000 San rock art sites showing the earliest specimens of rock art where colour and dimension were introduced. Many endemic and threatened species can be found here e.g. the Bearded Vulture and unique alpine vegetation occurs. Well-marked trails make the area a hiker’s paradise, other ideal outdoor activities include fly-fishing, rock-climbing, mountain biking, ice climbing, abseiling, paragliding, horseriding and 4×4 trails. Don’t miss the famous Amphitheatre, Cathedral Peak, Giant’s Castle, the second highest waterfall in the world – the Thukela Falls and the majestic Mnweni Valley in the north to central area. In the south, find 26 peaks that are higher than 10,000 feet (3050m).

Greater St Lucia Wetland:

Park A World Heritage Site that is one of the last remaining sub-tropical areas containing its original diverse components of wild plants and animals. Five interlinked ecosystems can be found including a marine system, coastal dune system, lake systems, swamps and an inland system of ancient shoreline terraces and dry savannah. Don’t miss whale watching and also visit Sodwana Bay, a world-class diving destination also popular with fishermen. Here the rare ‘fossil’ fish, the ceolacanth, thought to be extinct, was recently captured on video.

Durban & surrounds:

South Africa’s third-largest city, Durban is Africa’s most successful convention destination and its ‘Golden Mile’ beachfront offer magnificent swimming beaches and sports facilities. Apart from this, the city’s cultural mix offers excellent entertainment and shopping, from energetic Zulu dances to the famous hot Indian curries. Try a traditional rickshaw ride while exploring.

The Midlands:

Often compared with the Midlands in England, this area comprises wide open areas of green hills, lush pastures and extensive forests. Follow the Midlands Meander, a world-class arts & crafts cottage industry along a well-organised route and don’t miss Howick Falls. Ideal for outdoor activities including whitewater rafting, also features top sports events e.g. the Midmar Mile – the world’s biggest inland swimming race.

South Coast:

A string of small holiday towns cater for fun-lovers all year round. Excellent conditions for bathing, surfing, fishing, scuba diving and dolphin and whale watching. Also known for its golf holidays with over 12 golf courses.

North Coast:

Sea-side resorts set in King Shaka territory, famous for its bottle-nose dolphins. Ideal for bathing, surfing, skin and scuba diving, rock and skiboat fishing or exploring the rock pools.

Zululand’s Game Parks:

The biggest concentration of game parks in the province, with the big bushveld game reserves of Mkuze and Hluhluwe-Umfolozi main attractions. Apart from Big 5 game viewing (lion, buffalo, rhino, leopard and elephant), the reserves are also renowned for its birds, especially Mkhuze, hippo, crocodiles and giraffe. While in the area, don’t miss one of the traditional Zulu villages; in some you can even sleep over in beehive huts. In September, the annual Royal Reed Dance at the Royal Residency of King Goodwill Zwelithini in Nongoma must not be missed.

The Battlefields:

Rich in history, this province features the largest concentration of Boer, British and Zulu battlefields in southern Africa. Numerous sites and routes can be explored with Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift, Majuba, Spioenkop, Thalana and Blood River main battle sites that will be brought alive by the stories of a specialist tour guide.

Valley of 1000 Hills:

Starting approx. half an hour’s drive from Durban, a tourist route of craft shops, restaurants and magnificent scenery can be explored. Highlights include the PheZulu Safari Park for its Zulu warrior dancing, ethnic curios, bush drives, sangomas, crocodile and snake park; the 3-hour Choo Choo Train trip through the valley on the last Sunday of every month and the On Air raptor display, where you can watch raptors fly over the valley demonstrating their hunting techniques.

North America is a northern subcontinent of the Americas, surrounded by the Arctic Ocean to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the south and west and South America and the Caribbean Sea to the southeast. It is made up of numerous countries, islands that add grace to its beauty and make it a wonderful tourist spot. Scenic landscapes, towering mountains, eye-catching attractions and historical heritage are the highlights of this region, which captivate the eyes of its visitors with its majestic charm.

Home to a wide range of lakes, it is a wonderful place for all types of vacation. From Canada to Panama, there are numerous lakes in North America that could be one of the ideas of a quick getaway. Here is the list of the beautiful lakes of this region that have been painted by the artists and described by the poets.

1. Crater Lake, Oregon: Situated in the south-central Oregon, Crater Lake is a part of the Crater Lake National Park that happens to be a natural wonder with an immense range of breathtaking sights, alluring places and wonderful spots that can steal anyone's heart away. Surrounded by amazing fauna, it is an amazing place that has the charm of making a vacation a memorable experience.

2. Skilak Lake, Alaska: Skilak Lake is a large lake set on the Kenai Peninsula in the Alaska region that adds grace to the beauty of the North America. Its crystal clear water, rocky bottom, glaciers in the background and alluring landscapes define the elegance of this scenic lake. With 2 campgrounds, a fun-filled vacation can be sent here with a lot of magical memories.

3. Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada: Known for its turquoise blue water, white glaciers and high peaks, Lake Louise is a gem in the crown of the North America. With a large number of hiking trails, steep hills of the Canadian Rockies and eye-pleasing sights this stunning lake is a visual treat to the eyes that catches the eyes of all its visitors. A visit to this lake is a must to know more about its allure.

4. Laguna Catemaco, Veracruz: This freshwater lake in the east-central Mexico is formed by the separation of volcanic eruptions from the Gulf of Mexico. Symbolized as an eco-tourism destination, it is a lovely lake with tropical views, archaeological ruins and ancient carvings. Jungle trekking adventures, sightseeing and mountain trails can be experienced while being here. A mere glimpse of this lake leaves its visitors in the state of awestruck.

5. Emerald Lake, Carcross, Canada : As the name suggests, the water of the lake is that of an emerald and is formed by an unusual phenomenon. Apart from this, scenic views of the lake and breathtaking sights of the surrounding Gray Ridge Mountain make the travelers spellbound and wonder in surprise. The rays of sun falling on the lake create a mesmerizing view, which is hard to find anywhere else.

North America has many more jewels that can be explored by booking a cheap flight now .

South Africa is simply one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the world. I am sure this comes as no surprise if you consider the Knysna Coastline, Cape Town – Table mountain and that’s not even mentioning the wild life parks and nature reserves. As this is all and well there is one part of South Africa that I think isn’t getting as much exposure as it should.

St Lucia is situated in the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The St Lucia Wetland Park is a candidate for World Heritage Site Status. It is well know for its five ecosystems and a biodiversity not found anywhere else on earth. St Lucia has an Sub-Tropical climate which means about 280 plus sunny days. This is definitely a destination for those nature nuts out there.

If fishing is your thing, look no further. There is nothing more rewarding than hooking and reeling in your first catch-and-release Marlin. The ocean waters comes alive with a kaleidoscope of colourful tropical fish that feed on the coral reefs. This brings us to one of my favorite places in the greater St Lucia area namely Cape Vidal. Read more about his marvelous place at www.kznwildlife.com/capevidal_dest.htm [http://www.kznwildlife.com/capevidal_dest.htm]

Accommodation is abundantly available in the area but I would like to single out one place where one really feels at home. The Cane Cutter Estate is just outside the town of St Lucia in a place called Monzi. It features guesthouse and self-cater chalet accommodation. It has an wine cellar, restaurant and a bird park, yes a bird park on the premises housing species such as Toucans and Macaws. The wine cellar stocks wine from all regions of the Cape and Stellenbosch. For more information visit www.canecutterestate.co.za

When you looking for a holiday destination that exceed all expectations, the northern coastal town of St Lucia is a definite place to visit.

Why choose a beach vacation in Florida? One good reason is because wherever you go in Florida, you’re never more than 60 miles from the beach!

Florida is also easy to get to, the temperature is pleasurable year round, it offers good value for your money and that’s just for starters. So whether you are looking for a family vacation, a romantic vacation, a relaxing vacation or getting in some golf time, there is a Florida beach vacation area for you.

Best Florida Beach Areas for Families

Siesta Public Beach

Siesta Public Beach in Sarasota makes a great family beach because of its gradual slopes, shallow waters, lifeguards on duty, fine white sand and tranquil waters. It has won awards for best beach based on sand, water quality and facilities. The beach facilities include picnic areas, rest rooms, concession stands, playground, trails, and tennis and volleyball courts. If you enjoy collecting shells, try Turtle Beach, at the south end of the island.

Tampa Bay Area – St. Petes/Clearwater

Located on the West Coast of Florida, on the Gulf of Mexico, the Tampa Bay area is a waterfront heaven! Miles and miles of white sandy beaches along the Gulf Coast offer unlimited options for a fun and relaxing vacation. When you need a break from the surf and sand, there are plenty of nearby activities to keep the kids amused including the Florida Aquarium, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Lowry Park Zoo.

Daytona

With twenty-three miles of sparkling white sandy beaches and beautiful blue-green waters there is no shortage of beach fun for whole family. The beach is up to 500 feet wide at low tide and is perfect for castle building, cycling, jogging, fishing or just relaxing in the sun. The Atlantic Ocean is great for swimming, especially during the spring and summer when water temperatures range from 74 to 80 degrees. And you are only an hour’s drive from Orlando if you are so inclined.

Best Florida Beach Areas for Romance

Miami Beach

A Miami romantic vacation has everything from relaxing on the beach by day and dancing by night. There are lots of art deco and interesting hotels on South Beach. A short drive west will bring you to the Everglades, where you can take a Scenic Boat Tour and see plenty of wildlife, including alligators. You can shop at the ritzy Bal Harbor shops, and at night choose from plenty of dance clubs or mellow jazz bars and restaurants.

Marco Island

Marco Island is located at the southern tip of Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast at the western entrance to Everglades National Park. The island is surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico on one side and natural wilderness on the other. There are miles of white-sand beaches, lavish real estate, shopping, dining, nightlife, attractions and lots of outdoor activities. Your recreation choices include swimming, sunbathing fishing, golf, tennis, and more. Enjoy the subtropical ambience that exists in Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach has beautiful sandy beaches and a great pier that is available for fishing, dining & dancing. There is a large promenade leading to the beach with an observation deck overlooking the ocean, perfect for romantic walks. While you’re on the Space Coast you can visit the Kennedy Space Center, go deep-sea fishing, surf, windsurf, rent a jet ski, golf our take a take a river tour. At night there is lots of nightlife and great dining for you to enjoy.

Best Florida Beach Areas for Relaxing

New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach is a laid-back beach town without the crowds, noise or pollution, which gives visitors a relaxing beach experience. Although the northern beach is accessible to cars, the majority is traffic free, allowing for peaceful sunbathing and strolls along the beach. New Smyrna has a small town feel in its architecture and atmosphere. There are no high-rises along the beach, only low-rise buildings and these accommodations range from bed and breakfast inns, family-size condominiums or oceanfront motels.

Sanibel Island

Sanibel Island is one of the unique barrier islands of the world, having an east-west orientation when most islands are north south. This gives the island great sandy beaches with plenty of shells. Check out Bowman’s Beach for peach and quiet, you won’t find any hotels here. You can park and walk over a bridge to secluded white beach. There are barbecue grills in the area so it is a great spot to have a picnic and enjoy the beach.

Punta Gorda

Punta Gorda is located about 30 miles north of Fort Myers. There is plenty of waterfront in this town, and a very nice riverfront beach area. Here you can enjoy swimming, fishing, canoeing, hiking and walking in the woods, it is a great place to get away from the crowds. The town of Punta Gorda has street art, water views and interesting murals that enrich the historic downtown district that also has cobblestone streets and gaslights, and many fine shops and restaurants.

Best Florida Beach Areas for Golf

Sarasota

Sarasota is a sophisticated resort town near the Gulf of Mexico. For beach lovers there is Sarasota’s 35 miles of fine, pure, sparkling white sand beach to enjoy. As far as golf is concerned there are 32 golf courses in the Sarasota area and almost 20 more if you include the surrounding cities of Bradenton and Venice. You will find one for every level of ability available for your golfing pleasure.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville has twenty miles of Atlantic Ocean beaches and lots of nearby state parks to explore. You will find lots of things to do and lots of beaches to explore in Jacksonville. For golfers there are over 25 golf courses in the area. Several championship golf courses are located nearby; many of which are ranked among the top in the country offering challenges for players of every skill level, ranging from top ocean side resorts to popular public courses.

Naples

Naples, located on a stretch of southwest Florida that is not bordered by barrier islands, has seven miles of silky, white sand beach that overlooks the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico. There is plenty of shopping and dining in the area once the sun goes down beachfront. There are also dozens of excellent golf courses in the area. From May through October, the golf courses are not as crowded and you can pick your tee time and be assured of a leisurely round. Also, many private courses are open to the public during these months.

This is only a sampling of some of the great beaches located along the shores of Florida. There are many more that can fill your Florida beach vacation needs year round.

When planning your next vacation, consider the well known sandy beaches of Gulf Shores Alabama. This celebrated quiet town is the perfect vacation destination for family, friends and couples alike. With an abundance of activities and attractions, warm summer months and mild winters, Gulf Shores is the perfect vacation paradise.

The miles of sugar white sand beaches provide every vacationer with all the obvious beach attractions, from swimming, parasailing, fishing and bird watching. The calm Gulf coast waves that gently roll onto shore make the beaches inviting to all ages. Imagine yourself taking a long, relaxing walk on the warm soft sand, stopping every now and then to collect a few colorful seashells and to cool off in the ocean waves. Unwind with a good novel or catch a long needed nap while soaking up the warm sunshine and perfecting your tan.

Try your hand at fishing the salty ocean waters by taking a deep-sea fishing trip aboard the Intimidator. Choose from a day trip or an overnight adventure on the 65 foot custom built boat with all the latest marine technology and tackle. Enjoy catching a range of sea creatures from snapper, Triggerfish, Cobia, Amberjack and more. You and your vacation companions are sure to create memories to last while fishing the deep open waters.

If you’ve had enough fun in the sun and are looking for a carefree alternative, vacationers will be pleased to find a variety of nearby restaurants like the famous Oyster House, shopping and more. Home to one of the largest factory outlet in America; make sure to spend some time finding great deals at Riviera Centre, located off Highway 59 in Foley. Spend the afternoon with a round of golf at one of the top quality courses at Cotton Creek, Gulf Shores Golf Club or Kiva Dunes.

For an exciting daytrip, consider visiting Gulf State Park. Located on Highway 135, this park is home to 6000 acres of land and over 2.5 miles of beaches. Fishing fanatics will love visiting Lake Shelby, the 900 acre freshwater lake. Experienced fisherman and even the novice will love finding out what the catch of the day is. For more high energy adventures on the lake try waterskiing, boating and swimming. Nature enthusiast will love exploring the nearby nature trails, discovering the heavily wooded area and animal life.

Another interesting trip that history buffs will enjoy is jumping onboard the ferry to Dauphin Island. Enjoy this short ferry ride over the beautiful ocean waves to bring you to an exciting afternoon. Experience for yourself why learning history firsthand is much more fun than by reading a textbook. Learn about historic Fort Morgan, completed in 1834, and learn about its place in history during the Civil War, Spanish-American War and both World Wars.

Kids and families will enjoy Gulf Shores several theme parks and playgrounds. Waterville USA, hosts 20 acres of water and amusement park fun. Bounce around the wave pool in your tube and fly down the 55 foot free fall waterslide called the Kamikaze. Enjoy a round of putt-putt golf in the fantasy and themed Pirate’s Island.

To complete your ultimate vacation getaway, it’s import to find the perfect lodging accommodations. A Gulf Shores Alabama Vacation Rental is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to escape the crowded hotels and stay in a relaxing environment close to their family and friends. With all the amenities of home at your fingertips, you can have a memorable vacation both inside and outside of your vacation rental accommodations.

The Republic of Costa Rica is bordered by Nicaragua and Panama. The Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean provide miles and miles of beautiful coastline on both sides of the country. It most certainly is a “rich coast” -just as the name implies. Its highest point is at Cerro Cherripo, at an elevation of 3820 meters above sea level. The Irrazi Volcano draws many visitors each year as well. The inland area shelters Lake Arenal, the largest lake in Costa Rica.

National parks and museums make wonderful educational stops on Costa Tours. Families with children will appreciate these unusual and interesting locations. The history of Costa Rica’s varied culture is a fascinating complement to fun days on the beach. In San Jose, the Museo de Oro has a rare and varied collection of pre-Columbian figures crafted in pure gold. The Jade Museum displays ceramics, gold miniatures, and the largest collection of jade in the realm. The Entomological Museum displays natural beauty in the preservation of “flying jewels” in the form of tropical butterflies.

All Costa Rica tours should include a visit to The Corcovado National Park. The endangered Baird’s Tapir and Harpy Eagle live in its lowland rainforest. The dense undergrowth of the park shelters margay, puma, jaguar, and ocelot. These predators hunt the many mammals that share the forest. Camping in the Corcovado is permitted. Ranger stations have bunk accommodations, and organized tours can be arranged.

Another attractive national park is the Tortuguero. This park has the Humedal Caribe Noreste, an area of natural wetlands that can only be reached by air or boat. This remote location draws many visitors every year with its pristine beauty. Endangered animals make this park their home. Protected turtle nesting sites are very common. The loggerhead, leatherback, hawksbill, and green turtles all have safe haven for nesting sites within the Tortuguero. Costa Rica tours can be educational as well as enjoyable.

Perhaps your dog would like to expand horizons, catch up on culture and enjoy some activities not available in many places. So, if your dog loves to travel, then you simply must visit Mendocino county, a few hours north of San Francisco. Horizon Air has added flights from Las Vegas to Santa Rosa, California. You and your dog can take a nice scenic hour and a half drive north and visit dog friendly wineries along the way. Most of the wineries are have grass and bushes to explore and sniff. Some even offer doggie treats. Navarro and others allow dogs in the tasting room.

The Maccallum House Inn in Mendocino offers winery tours, chauffeured limos and dogs are allowed to tag along, if you book as a private party… Ask for Jim Davis and tell him that you found out about the tour from the author (of this article).

Here are the top 12 dog friendly things to do in Mendocino

l. Tiptoe through the Botanical gardens

Between the tulips and other flowers, (over 150 varieties), Fido will enjoy a nice stroll with you to the beach. Well-mannered dogs

on leashes are always welcome and enjoy free admission.

2. Beach romp (Noyo Harbor or a private beach)… most beaches are dog friendly and dogs have to be on leash.

Dogs love to splash and do the doggie paddle in the ocean. And Mendocino County’s coastline has an abundance of places for them to swim.

Big River Beach, N. Big River Road, Mendocino

Portuguese Beach, Mendocino Headlands, Mendocino

Van Damme State Beach, Highway 1, Mendocino

Caspar Beach, 14441 Point Cabrillo Dr., Caspar

MacKerricher State Park, Highway 1, Fort Bragg

And for an extended stay, you can also camp out with Fido.

California State Parks Camping Reservations: 1-800-444-PARK (7275)

With nearly 100 miles of coastline and dozens of state and private campgrounds, finding a place to camp on the Mendocino Coast is not difficult. The most popular state parks are MacKerricher (Fort Bragg) and Russian Gulch (Mendocino) and Van Damme (Little River).

3. Take a hike.

Jughandle State Reserve features a 2½-mile self-guided nature trail called the Ecological Staircase. Starting by the ocean, this trail goes inland up a series of five ancient terraces formed by waves, glacier, and tectonic activity. Each terrace was uplifted from the sea about 100,000 years after the previous was raised. The lowest terrace is prairie, followed by a pine forest, then a redwood forest, and finally a pygmy forest with knee-high trees that are decades old. The trail features an amazing variety of trees, since the ecologies of the different terraces vary widely.

Three miles south of Fort Bragg. Turn west off Highway One into the well-marked parking area. 707-937-5804

4. Get a free ice cream cone for your mutt at Cowlick’s ice cream

You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream. And Fido may also enjoy a sweet vanilla kiddie cone on a sunny day.

5. Stroll the shops in Mendocino and buy some doggie perfume.

After all the rolling, licking and splashing in the water and mud and sand, you may want to get some doggie perfume for Fido. Mendocino has many enjoyable gift shops and places where Furshionistas prefer to shop such as Sallie Mac.

And there are numerous pet supply shops such as Paws for Cats & Dogs, 338 N. Main St., Fort Bragg, 707-964-3322, Fort Bragg Feed & Pet, 880 Stewart St., Fort Bragg, 707-964-3333, and Evergreen Barn Pet Grocery, 477 Evergreen St., Mendocino, 707-937-3300.

6. Stay at a dog friendly inn such as the Agate Cove Inn, Little River Inn, MacCallum House Inn, Cottages at Little River Cove, Stanford Inn, Sea Foam Lodge, Dehaven B&B and the Blair House (where the TV series Murder She Wrote was filmed). The pet friendliest lodging can be found at these inns. Standford Inn, MacCallum House, Cottages at Little River Cove and Little River Inn supply a doggie gift basket including bowls, treats, and doggie bed.

More information can be found at

http://www.mendocinofun.com

7. Dine together

The Stanford Inn is an original pet friendly zenlike inn. You can even dine with well-behaved Fido during the day.

Well behaved dogs are welcome in the lobby but not the dining room. If you would like breakfast or dinner to be served in the lobby, they are happy to accommodate you…

8. Play catch or frisbee at the Fort Bragg dog park.

Fort Bragg has McDoggie park, a dedicated dog park, where non-aggressive and friendly doggies play. McDoggies is at Willow and Lincoln Streets. Take Maple Street east from Highway One (Main Street) until it ends at the dog park on Lincoln St.

9. Go kayaking with your dog

You can paddle up Big River in a canoe from Catch a Canoe & Bicycles, Too, located at Highway 1 & Comptche-Ukiah Rd, Mendocino, 707-937-0273.

10. Tiny dogs can take the Skunk train with their owners, if they can fit inside your purse; chew chew… chew chew…

11. Fido may accompany you while sport fishing and whale watching with All Aboard Adventures, North Harbor Dr., Fort Bragg, 707-964-1881 or Anchor Charter Boats, PO Box 103, Fort Bragg, 707-964-4550.

12. There are many places for you and Fido to have a puppy picnic in the area.

And if you seek a hot meal, there are a variety of choices of restaurants where Fido can sit beside you outside.

Café One, 753 N Main Street, Fort Bragg

Home Style Café, 790 S. Main Street, Fort Bragg

Laurel Deli, 401 N Main Street, Fort Bragg

Mendocino Cookie Company, Main St., Fort Bragg

Nemo’s Fish Market, 2410 N Harbor Dr., Fort Bragg

Piaci Pub & Pizzeria, 120 W. Redwood Avenue, Fort Bragg

Lu’s Kitchen, 45013 Ukiah Street Mendocino

Mendo Burgers, 10483 Lansing Street, Mendocino

Mendocino Café, 10451 Lansing Street, Mendocino

Mendocino Hotel, 45080 Main Street, Mendocino

Moody’s Organic Coffee Bar, 10450 Lansing Street, Mendocino

Moosse Cafe, 390 Kasten, Mendocino

The San Diego area is home to many world class beaches and as a result, many professional sporting events, such as Surfing, are held in the San Diego area. Apart from the beach, there is a lot to do in the city itself and a vacation to San Diego is perfect for those interested in any type of adventure vacation.

Some of the most popular destinations when visiting the city include the world famous San Diego Zoo and Birch Aquarium. There are many places for all animal lovers in San Diego-Sea Word and the Wild Animal Park are very popular attractions. One nice thing about the city is that many of the museums can be easily found in one place, Balboa Park. Balboa Park features the San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Man, and many other museums and attractions.

Scuba Diving and surfing are also very popular activities and there are many companies and organizations that will take you out onto the ocean if you are a beginner. Hang Gliding and whale watching are also popular and there are lessons and trips scheduled daily.

As far as dining is concerned, some of the most popular romantic restaurants in the area include the Blue Point Costal Cuisine for great seafood in the heart of the city, Old Venice for classic Italian cuisine near the beach, and Café Japengo for more seafood and sushi.

San Diego is a wonderful beach city and is an ideal location for a romantic getaway. It has a little bit of everything and no matter what you like doing, you and your significant other will be able to find something fun and entertaining to do in San Diego.