We spoke with Annie Jiang of the GoAnnieWhere travel blog about her trip down the California coast. She had lots to say and tons of itinerary recommendations for anybody considering a similar getaway.
You started your trip in The San Francisco Peninsula, what was your impression of the gardens at Filoli?
The gardens at Filoli were absolutely beautiful! I couldn't believe I was just outside of San Francisco. I felt like I was transported into a scene from The Secret Garden. I loved exploring the gardens and could definitely see myself bringing a book and spending a day on the lawn just reading and taking in the nature.
What were your favorite boutiques or shops in downtown Santa Cruz?
Downtown Santa Cruz was a lot of fun to explore. I loved browsing the books at Bookshop Santa Cruz, shopping for plants at Leaf & Vine, grabbing a delicious matcha latte at Flower Bar, and stopping for artisan ice cream at The Penny Ice Creamery.
You explored several of the neighborhoods just outside Santa Cruz, like Capitola and Depot Hill. Any hot takes?
I loved getting to explore the many distinct neighborhoods surrounding Santa Cruz. Downtown Santa Cruz has a great variety of shops and restaurants but when you venture out from Santa Cruz, there are so many surprises to be found. Head to Roaring Camp in Felton and you can take a train ride through a beautiful redwood forest. Take a trip to Capitola and you can find colorful beachside villas. Go to Depot Hill and you'll find a quiet and quaint neighborhood with great views of the area.
What impressed you the most on your tour of Hearst Castle?
Honestly, the entire castle and its grounds! Hearst Castle is so grand and opulent and everyone has to visit it at least once in their life. Every room is impressive and just when you think you've seen it all...you go into another room. There are even zebras roaming around the castle!
What was your experience like at Solvang’s annual Danish Days?
It was so much fun getting to experience Danish Days! I loved seeing people from all over come together to celebrate Danish culture and traditions. There was singing, dancing, and of course lots of eating!
Any standout pastries come to mind?
Have to say the aebleskiver—a must-try in Solvang!
Can you tell us about a few of the most memorable meals you enjoyed on your trip?
I had so much good food on this California road trip! Some of my favorites were the Mediterranean dishes at Laili in Santa Cruz, dinner at Shadowbrook in Capitola, brunch at Johnny's Half Moon Bay, and the chef's tasting menu at First & Oak in Solvang.
Were there any standout places that you stayed on your trip?
I loved my stay at Mirabelle Inn in Solvang! The boutique hotel is super charming and within walking distance of the shops and restaurants in Solvang. The staff were so welcoming and made my stay even better. Plus, the onsite restaurant, First & Oak, is phenomenal.
Were there any stops on your trips that seemed so European that you almost forgot you were in the United States?
There are so many places in California that feel so much like Europe! Filoli, Pulgas Water Temple, Hearst Castle, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Solvang are among my top picks.
Did you bring any souvenirs or gifts home from your trip?
I collect postcards on my trips and write about my trip on the back of my postcard—kind of like a diary. On this California road trip, I got postcards from the places in California I visited for the first time, including Santa Cruz, Half Moon Bay, and Solvang.
Any advice for readers who might want to replicate your journey?
The best part about a road trip is having the freedom to stop wherever you want. You don't have to follow a strict itinerary. As you make your road trip around California, make sure to stop at the small towns and sights along the way. There will be surprises awaiting you—and those stops can sometimes be the most memorable.
