introduction

California is the 3rd largest and most populous state in the western United States on the Pacific; known well for earthquakes. The total area is 423,970 km². Its four largest cities are Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, and San Francisco.

California is also known for its varied climate and geography as well as its diverse population. California ranks amongst the ten largest economies in the world, and if it were a separate country, it would be ranked 35th among the most populous countries in the world.

surfing

West coast USA is the far boundary of the Pacific and a lot of the residual energy that bounces around this enormous expanse of water ends up here in one shape or form. Sitting in the target zone for all swell generating patterns on this coast is the surfing jewel that is California. no less than 4 seperate swell generating systems feed this magnificent coastline. The Aleutian lows that power the north Shore of Hawaii also descend upon this coast to provide well shaped powerful NW swells from OCT through to FEB.

Comig from the other direction are the hurricane storm cells of Mexico that generate southerly swell. Summertime (JUN-AUG) sees regular windswell from small bands in the north Pacific. Towards southern California (So Cal), the dominant Santa Ana wind blows striaght offshore making this a definite prospect for the traveller. Then there are the remnants of the mighty swell systems of the south Pacific that manage to steam past the equator and extinguish themselves on the US coastline on the other side of the world. These swells may suffer from serious swell decay but be sure that whatever does manage to make landfall on this coast will be of a superior shape and period - packing a very solid punch.

Depending on how long you have you could spend your entire surfing vacation in California, if you have the time however no real surfing trip would be complete without driving aross southern USA. Maybe stop in at Texas for some year round merchantman wake surfing in the Gulf of Mexico.

travel

There are many ways of travelling in the US: by plane, private jet, train, bus, recreational vehicle (RV), motorcycle, thumb or car.

Trains are relatively expensive; private jets can begin at around $4000 per flight hour; buses are generally dependable, safe and affordable, though not available everywhere; renting an RV is up to your personal taste; motorcycling can be a thrilling way to see the country as well as travelling by thumb.

And of course, the idea of long-distance car travel is the most appealing to the majority of Americans. The United States is covered with a convenient system of U.S. and Interstate highways. Just keep in mind that the country is huge and be prepared to travel for hours behind the wheel, so pay attention to the comfort of the car you use. By the way, many of the country's major natural attractions, such as the Grand Canyon, are almost impossible to get to without a car.

where to stay

You won't have any problems with finding a place to sleep in California. Motel is the most popular form of accommodation and they are usually located on the sides of the highways, so it’s very convenient for the road trippers. Don’t expect anything luxurious, but they will usually provide you with a clean room that includes the following amenities: bed, bathroom, TV, telephone. Price is also very reasonable. Motel 6 and Super 8 Motels are popular chains of motels that can be found all over the country.

Planning to visit Los Angeles? No problems at all! This place has numerous hotel options that will definitely suit your budget and taste. From some of the most opulent and expensive hotels in the world to budget hostels and simple crash pads - you will find what you're looking for. 

what to pack

Much of the state has a Mediterranean climate, with cool, rainy winters and dry summers. Further inland, one encounters colder winters and hotter summers. So pack according to the season. Don’t forget to take waterproof clothes/gear/backpack for the rainy season.

A small backpack makes a good carryon bag and will be useful in daily life. Women: remember to take a good flat pair of shoes.... And for everybody: pair of comfortable walking shoes will be great for walking.  

All the gear if you plan to camp: a good sleeping bag and a waterproof tent; special gas container u can use for heating food and water; a sturdy backpack or a cargo pack with a good daypack. Invest in a portable water filter or at least take some puri-tabs or boil the water. 

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