The first thing you need to know about Carmel: Clint Eastwood used to be the mayor, so don’t come here if you’re a hooligan. But if you’re after a romantic getaway to a seaside, art-filled village, Carmel might be perfect for you. You can even bring your dog—Carmel’s hotels, restaurants and galleries are remarkably Fido-friendly.

Secluded beach nessled in the forest of Tamales Bay State Park.

Jagged cliffs pummeled by surf line the Pacific Coast Highway along Big Sur, creating some of California's most memorable ocean vistas between Carmel and the northern tip of San Luis Obispo County. Jack Kerouac and Henry Miller found inspiration in its fog-banked canyons and meadows. Gray whales migrate past twice a year, and elephant seals bask on the sandy shores. Luxury hotels, restaurants and art galleries cluster in a six-mile strip, giving way to redwood-filled state parks on either side.

Capitola, just minutes south of Santa Cruz, is California’s oldest seaside resort town, and boasts a Mediterranean flavor. An esplanade winds around village shops and bistros, while picture-ready views from the Capitola Wharf create a relaxing atmosphere. Experience signature events like the Capitola Art & Wine Festival, Capitola Begonia Festival, wine tasting rooms, and shopping. Take a hillside “cable car” to dinner overlooking Soquel Creek, next to scenic gardens and waterfalls.

The quintessential California beach town of Santa Cruz! It was here that surfing was first brought to the mainland by Hawaiian royalty. Home to the legendary Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a pedestrian-friendly, tree-lined downtown area, and the historic Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf, which stretches out a half-mile into the waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Other highlights include UC Santa Cruz, the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, and nearby redwood forests.

Monterey offers a host of historic attractions from Cannery Row to the famed Monterey Aquarium. This incredible sliver of oceanfront offers an amazing bounty of things to do, with marine, floral and vine-fresh delights to savor. Monterey-Salinas Transit and Amtrak let you take your eyes off the road. Charming towns, world-class golf courses and idyllic inns lie at the hem of the glittering Pacific. Whether you're looking for calm or noisy beachside fun, the Monterey Peninsula has it in buckets.

A mere 45-minute drive from San Francisco lies Half Moon Bay, an idyllic enclave and truly the perfect place to spend some time away from the big city. Horseback ride along a scenic beach, play golf on a spectacular course overlooking the ocean or browse through the numerous shops and art galleries in the historic section. If you decide to stay, as many do, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at any of the town's fine restaurants. Then check into an enchanting bed and breakfast, a charming inn or boutique hotel. Your Half Moon Bay experience will not be soon forgotten.

Soaring mountains, jewel-colored lakes and pristine wilderness await you in Canada’s first National Park. The irresistible beauty of the landscape invites travelers to immerse themselves in the outdoors all year round — whether hiking through untouched forests and paddling the turquoise lakes in summertime, or skiing the slopes and soaking in the steamy hot springs during the winter. Travelers also enjoy the warm hospitality of Banff or Lake Louise, the region’s charming mountain townships.

Newark has been welcoming guests since its first hotel opened in 1670. From the largest number of cherry blossoms in the U.S. to one of the country's highest grossing arenas, from Shaquille O'Neal's supersized cinema to the biggest collection of Tibetan art outside Southeast Asia, it's all still happening in Newark. Just eight miles from New York City, Newark offers travelers quick access and easy connections. Jump in and discover pro sports, fine arts, urban retail and outdoor adventure.

Conquering New York in one visit is impossible. Instead, hit the must-sees – the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art – and then explore off the beaten path with visits to The Cloisters or one of the city’s libraries. Indulge in the bohemian shops of the West Village or the fine dining of the Upper West Side. The bustling marketplace inside of Grand Central Station gives you a literal taste of the best the city has to offer.