Daytrips & Getaways picks

Put it in park

Tahoe Regional Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass

The golden poppies are blazing orange, the rivers are shimmering with summertime sun—but nothing bursts your outdoorsy glow like having to pony up for a parking fee. At most California State Parks, daytime entrance costs $10 for cars (with nine people or fewer). For adventurous types, that adds up. If you want to stay active this summer and onward, consider a Tahoe Regional Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass. For $75 you get a tag to hang on your rearview mirror—it’s good for any car, so feel free to let your friends borrow it or, better yet, make them drive next time. The annual pass buys a year’s worth of exploration in five go-to parks along the lake: D.L. Bliss, Donner Memorial, Ed Z’Berg Sugar Pine Point, Emerald Bay and Kings Beach parks. Kayak, hike and boat at Lake Tahoe during the warm months while exploring architectural gems like the Scandinavian-style mansion Vikingsholm at the popular Emerald Bay State Park. Then, in the winter, strap on those snowshoes.

www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1049. R.H.

Disconnect and decompress

Sea Ranch

We always say we’re going to vacation and relax but, let’s be honest, we usually end up still staring at our phones trying to find out what everybody else on Facebook is up to. Turn off your phone for real and make the drive up north to Sea Ranch, a planned community of gorgeous beach homes. Other than hiking and taking a dip in the icy ocean, there’s not much to do besides sip on a glass of something delicious and stare at the waves. Vacation rentals abound and, if you’re lucky, the Wi-Fi connection will be terrible.

www.sonoma.com/explore/sea-ranch. R.L.

Picnic on the river

South River Yuba State Park

Whether you’re a history buff interested in learning more about old-timey gold panners or someone who just wants to swim in a heat-busting river, South River Yuba State Park makes for the perfect getaway. Nestled in the Nevada County foothills region, this stage park boasts bridges, hiking trails and amazing swimming holes. Pack your swimsuit, a picnic lunch and some sunscreen and you’ve got the makings for a quick, no-fuss daytrip.

www.southyubariverstatepark.org. R.L.