Just over a sweeping bridge from San Diego, lies Coronado Island, where Balboa's water playground stretches uninterrupted toward the horizon, shimmering like iridescent turquoise taffeta.

Coronado is technically a peninsula with a long, slender causeway parallel to the shore as it reaches ten miles almost to Mexico. The residents like to think of the large piece of land lying just off San Diego as an island because it's accessed by bridge or ferry boat.

A one-hour drive from San Francisco takes you from the urban gray city streets to the rolling fields of grapes and bright blue skies of the Napa Valley. This famous wine region is known for fruity Cabernets and bold Merlots. Tourists flock to the tasting rooms to stand elbow-to-elbow waiting for their turn to take a sip from a tiny glass.

About 200 miles southeast from Portland is the dream getaway of any fisherman or fisherwoman. If you follow the North Umpqua River through its twists and turns of placid pools, juxtaposed with sections of rapid currents, you will enter into 31 miles of fly-fishing only territory. You will also find an inn that embodies the true spirit of fishing from its rich history to its nightly fisherman's dinner. Gather your poles and tackle box for a getaway filled with fine food, famous fishing spots and even a massage.

Just over 60 miles north of Denver, Fort Collins is an ideal day trip destination to escape the hustle and bustle of Colorado's capital city. As flowers are blooming and the days are getting warmer, spring fever is in the air and summer on its way. To celebrate the warm weather seasons, this perfect day will guide you around Fort Collins, cruising along its extensive network of paved bike paths on a one speed fat tire bike.

Halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along the legendary historical El Camino Real trail is the still under-discovered wine region of Paso Robles. Hot days and cold nights offer an ideal climate for this region specializing in Syrah and also known for growing outstanding Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot.

Gentle rolling hills, valleys and sharp cliffs ensure a variety of micro climates ideal for wine-growing. Set amidst bucolic back roads and rolling hills, a wine tasting tour of Paso Robles blends visual pleasures and culinary feasts.

Midway between Seattle and Tacoma in Puget Sound is Vashon Island. This small island measuring 13 miles long by 8 miles wide is home to 11,000 residents and all are dependent on ferry service to get to and from their homes. Most wouldn't trade the commute for the rural beauty of the island and the laid back lifestyle that Vashon is known for.