California has always held an irresistible allure – from the beauty and refinement of the north, to the endless sun and fun of the south.

San Francisco′s unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication has captured more than a few hearts of those who appreciate the unconventional. There, ride the famous cable cars, dine on seafood chowder at Fisherman′s Wharf, and walk the corridors of Alcatraz prison.

Like a glass of fine wine, Sonoma itself is best sampled with a clear palate and calm mind. Fresh, light California cuisine is the perfect complement to an afternoon of wine tasting at a vineyard tucked away in Sonoma′s gorgeous highlands. As for the calm mind, Sonoma′s clear skies, laid-back vibe, and luxurious spas have that covered.

As the home to the Pacific Fleet of the U.S. Navy, much of life in San Diego revolves around the waterfront. For a little entertainment, the cobblestone Seaport Village offers one-of-a-kind dining and shopping, while the Maritime Museum is home to a collection of vintage sailing and war ships. The kids will love seeing Shamu at Sea World, and all of the exotic residents of the San Diego Zoo.

Near the California desert lies Palm Springs - a once sleepy little town that has become the Playground of the Stars. One of its more interesting experiences is playing on the famous and beautiful golf courses in its summerlike clime, only to look up and see the snow-covered peaks all around. After you′ve reached the clubhouse, you can scale those same heights along stunning hiking trails.

The story of beautiful Orange County is often told along its coastline. Newport Beach offers schools that teach the art of sailing, rowing and other watersport specialties, and Huntington Beach is known as Surf City USA® for its incredible waves. Heading inland, Knott′s Berry Farm is ideal for family fun, as is Anaheim.

In Los Angeles, you′ll see stars — through a lens at the famous Griffith Observatory, when shopping along Rodeo Drive, and during an evening concert at the Hollywood Bowl, beneath the stars. Take your own Walk of Fame to the red carpet of the Kodak Theater, or take in a movie at Grauman′s Chinese Theater. Simply put, Los Angeles is the stuff that dreams are made of.

It′s time to make your own dreams come true and head to the sunny Pacific shores of glorious California.

For more information on California, see the travel professionals in your local AAA office or visit www.AAA.com.

AAA Oregon/Idaho provides more than 725,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive related services. AAA serves 51 million motorists in North America