Yosemite National Park: 313 miles via the 5, 99 and 41; with side trip to Sequoia National Park, 100 miles in and out.

By Catherine Gaugh

Staff Writer

When I was growing up in the San Gabriel Valley, family vacations generally centered around camping. And my favorite place to camp was Yosemite National Park.

Over the years, it has become everyone's favorite place judging by the summertime crowds and winter skiers. I've often been told that to have a fairly easy and relaxing time in Yosemite, go in October. Days are warm, nights are cool and the crowds are gone.

That's what we decided to do when my brother-in-law David and his wife Gena headed out from Atlanta for a short visit. David has always wanted to see the giant sequoia trees and Yosemite. We had only three full days before we had to take them to LAX, so my husband Matt drew up a sight-seeing plan to hit the highlights not only in Yosemite, but Sequoia National Park as well. Declining gas prices helped cut the cost of the trip.

We headed out early on a Wednesday morning, traveling on the 5 and 99 freeways to Highway 41 and Fish Camp, which is two miles from the south gate of the national park. Matt had found a bed and breakfast there at a nice, low Internet rate for two nights.

We bought gas in Oakhurst, as there is no station in Fish Camp. We checked in at the Apple Tree Inn, a jewel of a place on Highway 41. It offered cabins cleverly placed along a hilly property, all named for trees. We reserved a two-bedroom suite (only one bathroom) called the Dogwood. It was very comfortable and an easy walk next door to the Tenaya Lodge, a super resort with several restaurants.

After dropping off the bags and charging up the digital cameras, we piled in the wagon and headed for the park through the south entrance on Wawona Road. Close to the entrance was our first stop, Mariposa Grove. It seemed like a dream come true for David to walk among these giant old trees (and to take hundreds of pictures of them.)

Past the ranger gate where we paid a $20 park entrance fee, is the settlement of Wawona and the famous old hotel built in 1879. We stopped to enjoy the authentic rustic feeling of it all and decided to settle on the hotel's expansive porch with a glass of wine (or beer) to watch the sunset. (Matt wanted to stay at the Wawona, but by the time we called, all that was available were two rooms that shared one bathroom down the hall with two other rooms. Nah.)

Dinner was back in Fish Camp. From our cabin, we walked through a small line of trees and across a road to the lobby of the Tenaya Lodge to check menus. We decided to eat at Jackalope's Bar and Grill for its casual atmosphere and reasonable prices. The menu had everything from a flank steak salad to pork schnitzel. Back at the Dogwood cabin, the electric fireplace heated our suite, but at bedtime, we opened the windows for some of that crisp clean air.

The next morning, after inhaling a continental breakfast at the Apple Tree, we stopped at the Fish Camp general store for some beverages and freshly-made sandwiches to take along with us to Yosemite.

The sky was slightly grey from a controlled burn in Wawona. The smoke from the fire drifted far into the Yosemite Valley, creating a hazy cast to the magnificent views. There also was an interminable number of flagman stops for road repair, so we lost at least half an hour stopped at two flagman points on 41. I have seen it a hundred times but the view of Yosemite Valley emerging from the Wawona tunnel is always astonishingly beautiful: El Capitan, Sentinel Rock, Cathedral Rock, Bridalveil Falls and the iconic Half Dome in the distance. Our visitors were properly dazzled.

We drove all over the valley. We hiked up the trail to see Bridalveil Falls, the only waterfall to be active all year; inspected the damage from the landslide at Camp Curry; shopped at the Yosemite Village store; lunched on a picnic bench across from a meadow with a view of Glacier Point; chatted with the maitre d' at the Ahwahnee Hotel dining room about our dinner reservation and the dress code, and rested in the hotel's Great Lounge, which made an appearance in "The Shining."

We walked along some trails behind the hotel, crossing the Merced River by bridge, and just enjoyed the smell of the trees.

Next stop was Glacier Point, a 16-mile drive up a windy road to see the view of the valley, the enclosing cliffs and giant domes from 3,200 feet above the valley, which means we were at 7,000 elevation. Wow! Despite the smoke from the fire, it was clear enough that we could see the Ahwahnee as well as the meadow where we had lunch.

Back down in the valley, we returned to the meadow and ducked into the portable restroom for a quick change into slightly nicer clothes for dinner. When we emerged, we spotted a doe and her two youngsters foraging in the tall grasses. They didn't seem to mind the clicking of the sudden onslaught of naturalist paparazzi.

The Ahwahnee dining room is like no other place. It is cozy and comfortable despite the massive size and 34-foot high ceiling. The setting is a warm Arts and Crafts-Art Deco, the servers are friendly and slightly eccentric and the food; no matter what you order — is really good: seared sea scallops, lamb shank and duck.

We ordered a bottle of the inexpensive Ahwahnee chardonnay and had no complaint. The room wasn't as full as it would be during summer and winter seasons, but it was still pretty busy at 8:30 p.m. on a Thursday night.

Friday morning we headed back down the 41 to Fresno and caught the 180 into the Sequoia National Forest and King's Canyon National Park, about 57 miles. We paid our $20 entrance fee at the Grant Grove Visitor Center and then headed to the General Grant Grove. These trees are larger than those in Yosemite, and just as beautiful and wondrous.

From there we took the twisty highway into the Sequoia National Park. We stopped for lunch at the Lodgepole Visitor Center and made our way to the 2,200-year-old General Sherman Tree.

During busy times, the Sherman Tree parking lot is a half mile away, but there is a big handicapped lot just a few steps from the many trees in this forest and the giant, 275-foot-tall General itself. On this day, there were autos and motorcycles of all types stopping here, and there still was plenty of parking for any handicapped drivers that came along. From the Sherman, we took 198 down to Visalia, about 46 miles.

The road is very steep and extremely twisty; my car brakes have not yet recovered from the drive. However, we spotted two groups of bears along this road and a couple of lone coyotes out hunting for their next meal. We stopped in Visalia for gas and coffee and then got on the 99 to head home. It is a long haul and it would have been more restful if we could have stopped for the night in Sequoia. But because of the tight timeline, we did the drive all the way from Fish Camp, through Sequoia and Visalia, in one day, and of course, we hit Friday night traffic in L.A. before arriving at home, all tuckered out.

We figured that we spent for four people $110 on gas (we had a half tank when we got home) $500 for two nights at the bed and breakfast (a special Internet rate) and $500 for food, including two dinners, lunches and cocktails. Not bad for a good set of memories of Yosemite and Sequoia national parks.

catherine.gaugh@sgvn.com

Apple Tree Inn,1110 Highway 41, Fish Camp, (559) 683-5111, www.appletreeinn-yosemite.com

Jackalope's Bar and Grill, Tenaya Lodge, 1122 Highway 41, Fish Camp, (559) 683-6555

Ahwahnee dining room, Ahwahnee Hotel, In Yosemite Valley, Dinner reservations required, (209) 372-1489

Yosemite National Park, Nearly 1,200 square miles of mountainous terrain in the Sierra Nevada of California. Closest entrance is off Highway 41, nps.gov/yosemite

Sequoia National Park: From highways 65 or 99, go east on Highway 198 to the park entrance.

Kings Canyon National Park: From Highway 99, go east on Highway 180 to the park entrance. The main park road, the Generals Highway, connects these two entrances. nps.gov/sek

INDIAN WELLS

HOW MANY MILES FROM WEST COVINA? 107 miles

HYATT GRAND CHAMPIONS RESORT, VILLAS AND SPA
44600 Indian Wells Lane
Indian Wells
(760) 341-1000
Weekday prices (from the resort's Web site) range from about $210 per night for a standard room to $800 per night for a one-bedroom villa. Our bargain rate was $55 per night, plus taxes and surcharges, from priceline.com for a standard room.

By Rebecca Flenniken
Staff Writer
Lured by a bargain-basement online rate on a resort hotel room, my husband and I decided to spend a few days celebrating our anniversary in the desert oasis of Indian Wells. It is only an hour and a half drive from our home in Rancho Cucamonga.
Indian Wells is a close neighbor to the famed celebrity hideaway of Palm Springs. The area is known for its world-class tennis and golf facilities, as well as many resorts and fine dining spots.
The straight-shot drive down the 10 Freeway was an easy one, and we arrived in mid-afternoon on a Sunday at the Hyatt Grand Champions Resort, Villas and Spa. Our spacious room featured a step-down sitting area, a flat-screen TV and stone tile in the bathroom.
After enjoying a late lunch at a local seafood restaurant, we returned to explore the expansive grounds of the hotel. The grounds, rich with palm trees, include seven pools, several restaurants, a 36-hole golf course and tennis courts.
That evening we took in a movie at The River at Rancho Mirage shopping center, a short six-mile drive from our hotel. The shopping center's outdoor ambiance was reminiscent of Pasadena's Paseo Colorado, highlighted by a large man-made waterfront with fountains. Live music filled the air as we strolled.
The next day, our anniversary, we went out for breakfast at a nearby IHOP. We decided not to go to any of the resort's restaurants during our stay, as we concluded the price would not be worth the convenience.
After breakfast, I headed to the resort's spa, the Agua Serena, for a few hours of pampering. I started with a facial, followed by a massage and a manicure. The staff was knowledgeable and extremely friendly, and the environment was peaceful and serene.
After my treatments I met my husband at one of the pools, the Oasis Pool, which is reserved for guests 18 and older. (We had left our two small children in the capable hands of my in-laws for our getaway ... families traveling with children have their pick of several other pools in the complex, including one with a waterslide).
One unique feature of the Oasis was the opportunity to rent (for a fee) a private poolside cabana, which we did for a half-day (four hours). The cozy, covered nooks included plush lounge chairs, a ceiling fan and cool-water mister, a small fridge stocked with bottled water and fresh fruit, and a television. Staff came to the cabana periodically to take orders for, and deliver, (pricey) cocktails and food. We ended up getting our money's worth, lazily using the cabana for the full four-hour time slot.
Our anniversary dinner was spent at LG's Prime Steakhouse in the neighboring town of La Quinta. The food, ambience and service were good, not great, and the price tag was steep.
That night we headed back to The River shopping center for ice cream and another stroll along the "waterfront."
The next morning we headed for home, stopping first about 20 miles west of Indian Wells for a little shopping at the outlet mall in Cabazon.
We returned home with our batteries recharged and we'd like to visit the area again. Next time we'll plan on being a little more active, maybe with a hike at Joshua Tree National Park and a trip up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
rebeccaflenniken@sgvn.com

"Discover More Of Hawaii For Less Than You Imagined," the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau has launched a winter vacation campaign offering travel packages to the Hawaiian Islands at deeply discounted savings.

"These packages are good news for travelers who may have been deferring a Hawaii vacation over cost concerns," said John Monahan, bureau president and CEO. "The savings being offered mean the cost of a Hawaii vacation can now be less than a year ago."

Recognizing that travelers in this economic environment are seeking incredible experiences unique to a destination, but at a great value, the visitors bureau has introduced a new website - GoHawaii.com/Value - listing the Hawaii vacation deals. Visitors are encouraged to check back frequently to view updates and new offers as they become available.

Travel wholesalers offering the packages are Pleasant Holidays, Travelocity, Expedia, Orbitz, All About HAWAII, Blue Sky Tours, LibGO Travel, Travel Impressions, Classic Vacations, MLT Vacations, Funjet Vacations, United Vacations, Hawaii Connection, and American Airlines Vacations.

The special deals are good now - with some offers available through first quarter 2009 with various expiration and blackout dates ­- and present a variety of cost-saving air-hotel vacation packages, as well as credits for car rental, and food, and beverage. Consumers can shop around and choose the travel package that best fits their lifestyle and pocketbook.

In addition, many individual hotels and airlines are also offering attractively priced rates to draw vacationers to the Hawaiian Islands.

Monahan added travelers will find there is ample airlift to the islands. To that end, Delta Air Lines has added additional flights from Los Angeles to Kauai and Hawaii's Big Island, increasing its Hawaii service.

"Hawaii is more affordable and accessible - and as enchanting as ever," said Monahan. "Hawaii during the winter is spectacular with the balmy weather, exciting outdoor activities, and a spirit of cultural diversity found nowhere else in the world."

Last month the release of the TNS American Traveler Study showed that Hawaii received the highest scores of all destinations nationwide for visitor satisfaction among travelers who had taken vacations within the past three years.

The bureau recently introduced its Stories of Hawaii videos at GoHawaii.com showing Hawaii's people sharing their insights about the unique appeal of the islands. The most recent video to debut is 'The Hula of Kauai' and shows Na Hula O Kaohikukapulani telling the story of the beloved white waters of Waimea, Kauai.

For more information about Hawaii, the Islands of Aloha, visit GoHawaii.com.

The Furnace Creek Inn & Ranch Resort will offer its popular "Stay & Play" golf package this fall and winter. The package is for two people and includes overnight accommodations at the Furnace Creek Inn or the Furnace Creek Ranch, unlimited golf for one day at the Furnace Creek Golf Course, golf cart and club storage. 

From Oct. 10 through Nov. 19, rates start at $223 at the Ranch and $372 at the Inn.  The rate is $199 at the Ranch and $332 at the Inn from Nov. 23 through Dec. 18. Beginning Jan. 1 through Feb. 12, the rate begins at $204 at the Ranch and $338 at the Inn. And from Feb. 13 through Apr. 19, 2009, the package price begins at $262 at the Ranch and $438 at the Inn. Rates are for two people based on double occupancy and do not include taxes. Some blackout dates apply. 

"We are able to keep the Furnace Creek Golf Course playable year-round by using state-of-the-art approaches to seeding, water conservation and course maintenance," said Phil Dickinson, director of sales and marketing for the Furnace Creek Inn & Ranch Resort and an avid Furnace Creek Golf Course player. "Winter is such a beautiful time here, and we have many guests who come just to get in as many rounds as they can. This is the perfect package for those travelers." 

At 214 feet below sea level, the Furnace Creek Golf Course is the lowest golf course in the world.  It has achieved the designation "Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary" from the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System (ACSS), the educational division of Audubon International.

The 18-hole Furnace Creek Golf Course measures 6,236 yards from the back tees with a course rating of 69.7 and a slope rating of 117. Although a relatively short course, the low elevation and challenging greens earned it a place on Golf Digest's list of "America's 50 Toughest Courses."

 Because the golf ball does not fly as far as it does at sea level and higher elevation courses, players must adjust their club selections as well as their mental approaches. The course also features small greens, strategically placed Palm and Tamarisk trees and water on nine holes.

Originally opened in 1931, the course underwent a major renovation in 1997 under the direction of world-renowned golf course architect Perry Dye. 

The Furnace Creek Inn & Ranch Resort has been welcoming guests since the 1930s. The AAA Four-Diamond-rated Furnace Creek Inn is open from mid-October through mid-May. It features 66 rooms, including two suites with a full array of amenities, fine dining, tennis courts and a spring-fed pool.

Open year-round, the Furnace Creek Ranch is situated adjacent to the golf course and features 224 rooms in a casual setting, general store, spring-fed swimming pool, tennis courts, horseback riding and the Borax Museum. 

For more information about facilities in Death Valley National Park or to make room reservations at in-park lodges, call toll free at 1-888-236-7916 or 1-303-297-2757 or go to www.furnacecreekresort.com When booking the Stay & Play package, guests should mention the promo code "GOLF." 

For more information about the Furnace Creek golf course, call the golf shop at 1-760-786-3373. For more information about facilities in Death Valley National Park or to make reservations at in-park lodges, call toll free at 1-800-236-7916 or 1-303-297-2757 or go to www.furnacecreekresort.com.

Boo at the Zoo, haunted houses, monster movie marathons, neighborhood festivals from Japantown to the Mission District, and walking tours filled with legend and lore are just part of the frisky Halloween fun brewing in the San Francisco Bay Area.

For more autumn fun, visit www.onlyinsanfrancisco.com and check out www.homeforhalloween.com for Halloween event updates. In all cases public transit is recommended; for information, telephone 511 (in the nine San Francisco Bay Area counties) or 510-893-8729 or visit www.511.org.

 Oct. 3-Nov. 1, 2008 (Weekends)

Halloween Haunt

Friday-Sunday 7 p.m.-12 a.m.

California's Great America, Great America Parkway, Santa Clara

Halloween Haunt is an "in your face" scare experience complete with five mazes, four scare zones, three live stage shows, and one gruesome attraction plus the park's collection of thrill rides. Event is rated PG-13. Full price admission is $39.99. For information call 408-988-1776 or visit www.pgathrills.com for additional advance savings.

Oct. 4-Nov. 2, 2008 (weekends and Fridays Oct. 24 and Oct. 31)

Fright Fest

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Vallejo

It's thrills by day and chills by night at the annual Halloween Fright Fest. Bring the little ones in the daytime for trick-or-treating and kid-friendly fun. Because when the sun goes down, it's not for the faint of heart. Six Flags Discovery Kingdom morphs into a shadow land of ghosts and ghouls. Roller coasters become monstrosities in motion, and scares await at every turn. Fright Fest takes place every weekend Oct. 4-Nov. 2 and Fridays, Oct. 24 and Oct. 31. See the park eerily transformed from coaster to coaster, venture through haunted mazes and themed scare zones plus, trick or treat with Bugs Bunny and friends. For information and hours of operation, visit www.sixflags.com or call 707-644-4000.

Oct. 17-18, 2008

Shock It to Me!

Castro Theatre, 429 Castro St.

This two-day horror film festival features classic (and not so classic) cinematic chillers. This year's fearsome film lineup includes "Whatever Happened to Spider Baby" and "Night of the Living Dead." Ghoulish guests of honor include Kathryn Leigh Scott and Lara Parker from "Dark Shadows." For information call 415-621-6120 or visit www.castrotheatre.com or www.shock-it-to-me.com.

Oct. 18, 2008

Physics of Toys: Frightful Fun

Exploratorium, 3601 Lyon St.

11 a.m.-3 p.m.

The Physics of Toys team gets into the spooky spirit with toys that ooze, screech and scare!  Make slime, screeching balloons and other gruesome gadgets.  Physics of Toys is included in the price of admission to the Exploratorium.  Take home what you make. All materials provided. For information visit www.exploratorium.edu or call 415-EXP-LORE (397-5673).

Oct. 18-19, 2008

Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival (38th Annual)

Main Street, between Miramontes and Spruce Street, Half Moon Bay

9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Half Moon Bay, the "World Pumpkin Capital," celebrates its bountiful fall harvest with a wicked and delicious lineup of rustic pumpkin patches, harvest-inspired crafts, home-style foods, expert pumpkin carvers, the Great Pumpkin Parade with Grand Marshal Will Clark, a bone-chilling Haunted House, titanic weigh-off champion pumpkins, pie-eating, carving and costume contests, pancake breakfast, 5 and 10k run/walk, and three stages of blockbuster entertainment. Admission is free. For information call 650-726-9652 or visit www.miramarevents.com.

Oct. 18-19, 2008

Goblin Jamboree

Bay Area Discovery Museum, 557 McReynolds Road, East Fort Baker, Sausalito

10 a.m.-4 p.m.

An annual family-oriented fundraiser features Halloween excitement with games, decorations, train rides, live entertainment, and, of course, trick-or-treats. Attend witches school, visit the petting zoo, ride a pony and enjoy a full brew of games, including Boo Bowling, and activities. $14 per person, ages one and above. For information call 415-339-3900 or visit www.baykidsmuseum.org.

Oct. 18, 25 and 31, 2008

Halloween Flashlight Tours

Winchester Mystery House, 525 S. Winchester Blvd., San Jose

6:30 p.m.-12:27 a.m.

This one takes the pumpkin. Special flashlight tours ($43 per person) are offered on Oct.  18, 25 and 31 and every Friday the 13^th. Tour the rambling mansion with only the moonlight, a souvenir flashlight and your imagination to guide you through a bewildering maze of rooms and stairways. For Halloween, there's also special entertainment and trick-or-treating in the gardens for the whole family. For information, call 408-247-2000 or visit www.winchestermysteryhouse.com.

Oct. 22-31, 2008

Halloween Swamp Tours

Jelly Belly Candy Co., One Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield

Candy factory tours include the fun and kid-friendly Halloween Swamp at the Jelly Belly Candy Company. Tours detour through a decorated haven of Halloween delights; see the making of jelly beans, candy corn, gummi spiders and more on 40-minute tours. Samples for all. For information, call 800-953-5592 or visit www.jellybelly.com.

Oct. 24, 2008

Green Halloween

California Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Dr., Golden Gate Park

6:30-8:30 p.m.

This fundraiser for the California Academy of Sciences is $350 per family (two adults plus up to two children), $100 each additional adult ticket, $75 per each additional child ticket. The greenest scene this Halloween will be inside the new Academy, from the rainforest to the ocean deep. Enjoy "spooktacular" activities, entertainment, crafts and fun for the entire family and have face-to-face encounters with Academy scientists and their creepy, crawly collection. Delicious food and creative entertainment will delight kids of all ages. For tickets call 415-379-5404 or visit www.calacademy.org.

Oct. 24, 2008

Queens Are Wild in the Castro

2001 Market St.

7 p.m.-12 a.m.

One of San Francisco's newest Halloween traditions features casino games with celebrity dealers. Presented by the Stop AIDS project and Elbow Grease, the event includes dancing, performances, silent auction and a free glass of wine for everyone who comes in costume. Ticket levels start at $50 per person. To order tickets visit www.stopaids.org or call 415-575-0150, ext. 260.

Oct. 24, 2008

Friday Night Flick: Thrillville's Halloween Spookylau

COPIA, 500 First St., Napa

8 p.m.

Napa's local lounge lizard, Will the Thrill, and his lovely assistant, Monica Tiki Goddess, return for COPIA Halloween and a viewing of 1959 film "Frankenstein Meets the Space Monster." Napa Valley's The Maikai Gents, TV horror host Mr. Lobo and his Amazonian assistant, The Queen of Trash, add to the fun. $7 admission. For information visit www.copia.org or call 707-259-1600.

Oct. 24, 2008

Halloween Ball

The Regency Center, 1290 Sutter St.

8:30 p.m.-3 a.m.

Three floors of Halloween fun for ages 21 and over. Ten DJs and six venues in one; the Grand Ballroom features Trevor Simpson of 92.7, an 11-piece Latin salsa band will hold forth in the Latin Room, DJ Big Bad Bruce will bring back the '70s and '80s and there will be costume contests in all rooms with great prizes. For more information, call 415-673-6464 or 415-260-9920 or visit www.alfandalf.com or www.aykutevents.com.

Oct. 25, 2008

Family Halloween Day

Randall Museum, 199 Museum Way, off Roosevelt above 14^th and Castro streets

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Come in costume and join in the kid-friendly festivities at the Randall Museum's Family Halloween Day.  The Museum will be transformed into a Halloween haunt with a gamut of ghoulish games, creepy crafts, tricks and treats, pumpkins and more. Entertainment includes Jackie Jones playing the saw with her amazing dancing cat. Kids, ages 2-12, and their families; must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is free; low cost activities. For information call 415-554-9600 or visit www.randallmuseum.org.

Oct. 25, 2008

Munchkin Masquerade

Jelly Belly Candy Co., One Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield

10 a.m.

Little ghouls and goblins 10 and under will be right at home at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center; it's everyone in costume for the Munchkin Masquerade march through the Halloween Swamp in the candy factory tour. Face painting, clowns and treats for kids add to the fun. For information, call 800-953-5592 or visit www.jellybelly.com.

Oct. 25, 2008

Halloween Family Cruise

Red and White Fleet, Pier 43½, Fisherman's Wharf

Departs at 5 p.m.

Just in time for Halloween, come aboard for a Halloween family cruise to enjoy chills and thrills on this fun, 90-minute costume party cruise for families on San Francisco Bay. Take part in a costume contest, enjoy delicious sweets, and marvel about the magnificent sights that San Francisco Bay has to offer. Non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. Adults $28; children ages 5-17, $18. To reserve space visit www.redandwhite.com or call 415-673-2900.

Oct. 25, 2008

Voices in the Dark

Marin Headlands

6-9 p.m.

Special five-mile, relatively flat, dusk-to-night hike is in search of two inhabitants -- the coyote and great horned owl -- whose nightly sounds haunt many human visitors. Along the way, learn more about the secret lives of these reclusive characters. Free. Meet at Tennessee Valley trailhead. For reservations, call 415-331-1540 or visit www.parksconservancy.org.

Oct. 25, 2008

Monster Bash

USS Hornet Museum, 707 W. Hornet Ave., Pier 3, Alameda Point, Alameda

7:30 p.m.-12 a.m.

All ages are welcomed aboard this National Historic Landmark, the USS Hornet. Aptly nicknamed "The Gray Ghost," the ship is the setting for a thrilling evening of dancing and haunted happenings. The family friendly event will feature live dance music from the 60s to the present by The Cocktail Monkeys, prizes for best costumes, a children's area and haunted tours. Tickets are $20 adults, $10 children up to age 17; $25 at the gangplank. Proceeds benefit preservation of the historic aircraft carrier. For information

call 510-521-8448, ext. 282 or visit www.hornetevents.com.

Oct. 25, 2008

The KISS Screamin' Halloween Cruise

Hornblower Cruises and Events, Pier 3, The Embarcadero

Boarding begins at 8:30 p.m.; boat departs at 9:30 p.m.

Join 98.1 KISS-FM and Hornblower Cruises for the second annual KISS Screamin' Halloween Cruise. Come dressed to trick or treat and then jive to KISS-FM tunes until the clock strikes midnight. Tasty cocktails, delicious appetizers and stunning views make for a frighteningly good time. Tickets $38.30; gratuity, service and tax additional. For information call 888-467-6256 or visit www.hornblower.com.

Oct. 25-26, 2008

Boo at the Zoo

San Francisco Zoo, One Zoo Road, Great Highway and Sloat Blvd.

10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Looking for an "un-boo-lievably" wild way to celebrate Halloween? Make plans to join the animals for two days of not-so-scary, high-spirited Halloween fun at Boo at the Zoo. Costumed kids and their families will have a howling good time encountering animals on the Haunted Nature Trail and thrills and chills visiting the Creepy Crawley Critters in the Insect Zoo. Make sure to check out the "Stomp and Chomp" animal enrichments when chimps, gorillas, lions, meerkats and more get to devour their pumpkins filled with treats. Kids will also enjoy free trick-or-treat stations all over the Zoo. Bring your family and friends for two days of big fun at Boo at the Zoo!  The daytime event takes place rain or shine and is free with paid Zoo admission. For information call 415-753-7080 or visit www.sfzoo.org.

Oct. 25-Nov. 2, 2008

Zeum's Halloween Haunted House 10^th Anniversary Celebration

Zeum, 221 Fourth St.

11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Haunted House open Oct. 25-26 and Nov. 1-2 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Oct. 29-31 1-5 p.m.

Zeum, San Francisco's hands-on multimedia museum for kids, is celebrating its 10^th anniversary with a week-long Halloween Haunted House experience opening with a free day on Saturday, Oct. 25, and continuing through Sunday, Nov. 2. The free day Oct. 25 will be a Halloween Birthday Bash including birthday cake and a trick-or-treating parade. Kids will also be able create spooky videos and animations, show off and win prizes for their costumes and enter a raffle for a free birthday party at Zeum and other prizes. Throughout the week, the Haunted House will be free with admission. Additional events for Zeum's 10^th anniversary include a Dia de Los Muertos Party Nov. 1, 12:30-2:30 p.m.; free gift for 10-year-olds with proof of age and inclusion in Zeum's "10-Year-Old Celebrities" wall. Admission is $8 youth; $8 seniors and students; $10 adults; free for visitors age 2 and younger. For information call 415-820-3320 or visit www.zeum.org.

Oct. 26, 2008

Pumpkin Time!

Marin Headlands Visitors Center

10 a.m.-noon

Bring the whole family and a pumpkin or two to paint, carve and decorate and share some Halloween folklore and recipes that are truly scary. Reservations required. Free. For information call 415-331-1540 or visit www.parksconservancy.org.

Oct. 26, 2008

Gardens Halloween Costume Walk
Children's Garden, Rooftop, Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth and Howard streets

Noon-2 p.m.
Hosted by the Unique Derique and featuring live music, children under 10 and their families are invited to parade around in Halloween finery. The Costume Walk also features performances and interactive games for kids. Kids in costume and their parents receive free admission to Zeum's Haunted House experience. For information call 415-543-1718 or visit www.ybgf.org.

Oct. 26, 2008

Pumpkin Pandemonium

Pier 39, Bay and Embarcadero

Noon-4 p.m.

Ghoulish and giddy behavior is part of the fun as kids in costume trick or treat throughout PIER 39's Pumpkin Pandemonium. Children 12 and under are welcome to visit the shops, restaurants and attractions to gather their sweets. Pumpkin carving demonstrations, and face painting will be available, as well as photos with frightful characters and an '80s Halloween show, "It's Like Halloween." Children will be able to wander through the pumpkin patch to pick their one free pumpkin. For information, call 415-705-5500 or visit www.pier39.com.

Oct. 26, 2008

Halloween T-Dance

Ruby Skye, 420 Mason St.

6 p.m.-12 a.m.

Dance the night away at Fresh's (www.freshsf.com) special Halloween T-Dance at Ruby Skye (www.rubyskye.com). DJ Phil B. will be working his usual magic. Restricted to ages 21 and over.

Oct. 27, 2008

Halloween Heroes

The Exploratorium, Palace of Fine Arts, 3601 Lyon St.

6-8:30 p.m.

The Exploratorium partners with the Wender Weis Foundation for Children (WWFC) for their annual Halloween Heroes event. The museum will be transformed into a cool Halloween headquarters with hands-on science and art activities, celebrity athletes and media personalities, food and drink donated by top Bay Area restaurants, costumed characters, face painting, pumpkin carving, trick-or-treat stations and more. Tickets are $185 per adult plus one child under 18; $350 per couple plus two children under 18; $55 additional child 3-17; children 3 and under will be admitted free of charge; other options available. For information or to purchase tickets, visit www.wenderweis.org.

Oct. 30, 2008

Goblins, Ghouls and Ghosts Halloween Party

Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf, 165 Jefferson St.

8 p.m.-1 a.m.

The Wax Museum of Fisherman's Wharf, noted for more than 200 life-sized figures staged in elaborate scenes with costumes, props and lighting, may be the only place in San Francisco where one can actually party with ghosts. Outrageous costumes are encouraged. Advance tickets $80, $100 at the door, include hosted bar and "Frankenstein Franks." For information and to purchase tickets, visit www.waxmuseum.com/halloween.

Oct. 30-31, 2008

Yerba Buena Gardens and Oracle "Learning Days"

Yerba Buena Gardens Children's Learning Center, Howard and Fourth Streets, near Zeum Carousel

11 a.m.-4 p.m.

The year-long series of environmentally-focused educational activities and events for children sponsored by Oracle will incorporate a Halloween theme; craft activities include pumpkin decorating, the history and facts about pumpkins and Halloween. With kid-safe carving tools, stickers and paints, parents and children will create pumpkin art and monster puppets from paper bags. The Ghost Story Theatre will feature a shared activity with guides crafting and performing spooky stories. Little visitors will be assisted with face painting to prepare for the yearly Halloween costume walk at Yerba Buena Gardens. For information call 415-543-1718 or visit www.ybgf.org.

Oct. 31, 2008

Halloween Blood Drive

Embarcadero Center, Drumm St. between Three Embarcadero and Four Embarcadero

8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Help save lives and have a spooky good time. All blood donors will have their name entered to win a Nintendo Wii, hotel and restaurant gift certificates, and much more. Enjoy treats and goodie bags as well. Donor coach will be located at Drumm Street between Three and Four Embarcadero Center. Donors can sign up for appointments at www.bloodheroes.com, enter embarcadero as the sponsor code (case sensitive). For more information call the Tenant Relations hotline at 415-772-0730 or email bmendoza@bostonproperties.com.

Oct. 31, 2008

Toddler Playtime

Crissy Field Center

10-11:30 a.m.

Help "eco-pirates" pick up trash, clean up the park and recycle. This fun-filled program focuses on ways families can explore San Francisco's National Park and keep it beautiful as well. $12 per child with pre-registration; $15 at the door. For reservations call 415-561-7752 or visit www.parksconservancy.org.

Oct. 31, 2008
Halloween Entertainment

The Cannery at Del Monte Square, 2801 Leavenworth St.
11:45 a.m.-8 p.m.
Musical entertainment begins at 11:45 a.m. For information call 415-771-3112 or visit www.thecannery.com.

Oct. 31, 2008

City Halloween Celebration

Parking Lot A, open lot near AT&T Park

4 p.m. Family Event

8 p.m. Live Music

Halloween, sometimes called the Gay Christmas, takes on a decidedly different look for 2008 with an event planned for Parking Lot A, an open space south of Market near the ballpark. Plans include a family-friendly celebration from 4-8 p.m., complete with costume and pie-eating contests, followed by entertainment featuring local musicians and performers beginning at 8 p.m.  Admission is free and open to the public. Smaller neighborhood celebrations will take place at clubs and businesses all over the City, as reflected in the City-sponsored campaign, Home for Halloween.  At the heart of the LGBT community, the Castro, bars and restaurants will be open. However, streets will not be closed and traffic will flow normally. Guests are welcomed to dress up and join in celebrating San Francisco's diversity and creativity while supporting local businesses and respecting the surrounding neighborhood. For information visit www.homeforhalloween.com.

Oct. 31, 2008                                                                     

Broadway Plaza Community Trick-Or-Treat

Broadway Plaza Shopping Center, South Main and Mount Diablo, Walnut Creek

5:30-7 p.m.                                                    

Children of all ages are invited to enjoy the magic of Halloween in a safe and sane environment. All trick- or-treaters will receive candy and other treats from participating merchants. For information visit www.broadwayplaza.com or call 925-939-7600.

Oct. 31, 2008

The Haunted Presidio: Halloween Night Walk

Presidio of San Francisco, corner of Lincoln Blvd. and Funston Ave.

6-7:30 p.m.

Take a walk on the wild side with spine-tingling tales of the Presidio's history. Dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight (optional) for this unforgettable Halloween park adventure. Meet park rangers Penn and Colindres at the corner of Lincoln Boulevard and Funston Avenue for a moderate, one-mile walk. For reservations (required), call 415-561-4323 or visit www.parksconservancy.org. Enjoy Mexican hot chocolate and Day of the Dead bread at the Officers Club, 50 Moraga Ave., for $5; to pre-order call 415-561-2805.

Oct. 31, 2008

Halloween Carnival

Japanese Community and Cultural Center of Northern California (JCCNC), 1840 Sutter St.

6-8:30 p.m.
Come to JCCCNC's and the Japanese Community Youth Council's Halloween Carnival for a safe spooky scene. Indoors arts and crafts, games, a trick or treat parade and a jumper are part of the fun. Also featured this year will be an all-new Mad Scientist Lab with hands-on experiments for kids of all ages. Space is limited. $3 per person at the door. For information call 415-567-5505 ext. 239 or visit http://www.jcccnc.org.

Oct. 31, 2008

Phantasmagorium- Halloween Night at the Palace of Frights

Exploratorium, 3601 Lyon St.

6-9 p.m.

The Exploratorim will be transformed into a Phantasmagorium of spooky science and frightful fun. In the first annual Halloween fright night, the Exploratorium digs six feet under the cultural and scientific phenomena behind Halloween, Dia de los Muertos and death. Find out how nature deals with death and regeneration with a decomposing snake at the Energy from Death exhibit. Get sucked into the finer points of leech science with nurses (in costume, but for real) from the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN). Walk through a "graveyard" dedicated to debunked science ideas, including the recently entombed Pluto is a Planet (1930 - 2006).  Witness the Iron Science Teacher competition where teachers compete before a live audience, or catch a sugar skull candy-making demonstration with master confectioner Irma Ortiz, among other events. Included in the price of admission to the Exploratorium. For information visit www.exploratorium.edu or call 415-EXP-LORE (397-5673).

Oct. 31, 2008
Teatro ZinZombie - A Macabre Ball at Teatro ZinZanni

Pier 29, The Embarcadero at Battery and Lombard streets

6:30 p.m.

Teatro ZinZanni will host a special Halloween evening performance full of ghoulish love and chaotic decadence. Audiences are invited to dress up in their favorite costumes and join the Macabre Ball at Teatro ZinZombie. This promises to be a memorable evening that includes a costume parade and prizes to the top three costumes judged by Teatro ZinZanni's spectacular cast members. For tickets, call 415-438.2668 or visit www.zinzanni.org.

Oct. 31, 2008

The Phantom of the Opera

Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave.

8 p.m

Relive the golden days of early cinema with Lon Chaney in his classic role in "The Phantom of the Opera" (1925). The live musical accompaniment to this gem of the silent film era comes from our majestic, 9,000-pipe Ruffatti organ, the largest concert hall organ in North America. Prices start at $25; half-price for ages 12 and under. For ticket information visit www.sfsymphony.org or call 415-864-6000.

Oct. 31, 2008

New Grooves: Downtown Halloween Party

New Groove Lounge, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Forum, Third and Howard streets

8 p.m.

The San Francisco Jazz Festival presents the rhythms of DJ Spooky and Forro in the Dark for this Halloween party with a downtown NYC twist. DJ Spooky (Paul Miller) is a composer, multimedia artist, writer and DJ who has remixed artists from Wu-Tang Clan to Metallica and rocked parties, clubs and festivals and opera houses worldwide. For information visit www.sfjazz.org or call 866-902-JAZZ (5299).

Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 2008

Wild Nights Family Overnight - Spooky Sleepover

San Francisco Zoo, One Zoo Road

Friday 6 p.m.-Saturday 10 a.m.

This Halloween-themed version of the Zoo's popular overnight program invites families for a nocturnal safari, pumpkin carving, keeper talk, comfy indoor camping, a continental breakfast and an exciting morning challenge for the whole family. Children must be six years old and accompanied by an adult. For groups of 30 or more, call to schedule your overnight. Fee for members $65 for children 6-12 years old and $75 for adults; all others $75 and $85. Pre-registration required. For information call 415-753-8124 or visit www.sfzoo.org.

Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 2008

Improv Halloween Show

Bayfront Theatre, Building B, Fort Mason

8 p.m.

True Fiction Magazine returns to the Bayfront Theatre for its annual Halloween shows. The renowned ensemble creates a night of intersecting stories from a single suggestion from the audience. For information call 415-474-6776 or visit www.improv.org.

Oct. 31-Nov. 1, 2008

Gotham City - A Hollywood Theatrical Production®

Ruby Skye, 420 Mason St.

9 p.m.

Experience two nights of Halloween fun as Ruby Skye is transformed into the dark fantasy world of Gotham City with more than $20,000 in props and décor. For information on ticketing, dress code and hours call 415-693-0777 or visit www.rubyskye.com.

Evergreen Lodge has added three new guided fall tours of Yosemite to its recreation program. Guests heading to the historic lodge to experience Yosemite also now have expanded spa services available to them to completely unwind. 

Located on the western border of Yosemite Park near the Hetch Hetchy Valley, the Evergreen is a serene Yosemite destination that blends the modern comforts of a resort, the relaxed approach and activities of a dude ranch and the timeless warmth of a historic 1920s lodge. 

Evergreen's Recreation Program

The Evergreen is the only Yosemite lodge with its own guide service and a recreation program that has expanded to be the most comprehensive in the area since new owners took over the lodge in 2002. Co-owner Dan Braun, a Yosemite expert with over 30 years of wilderness experience and 10,000 trail miles logged, developed the outdoor adventure activities.

Given its moderate elevation, the Evergreen offers a variety of activities well into the winter season. The lodge's fall and winter activities offer guests a rare opportunity to experience the famous valley and surrounding peaks in their seasonal splendor.

 New tours include:

• Private Guided Photography Workshop and Tour is led by renowned Yosemite photographer and naturalist Rob Hirsch in half- or full-day sessions for up to three people.
• Half Dome Journey, one of Yosemite's ultimate adventures, is a challenging, one-of-a-kind 17-mile hike to the top of Half Dome and back. Offered September to October.
• Cloud's Rest by way of Sunset Trail is the featured October hike and takes guests to the high country to one of John Muir's favorite places in Yosemite.

Returning this fall and winter is a full calendar of trips and activities, including:

• Fall Bike & Hike to Rainbow Pools or Granite Gorge takes bike riders along Yosemite back roads then on a gentle hike along the pristine Tuolumne River to Granite Gorge or the historic Rainbow Pools. Offered October to November.
• Range of Light Yosemite Valley Naturalist Tour is a sightseeing van tour of the unforgettable Sierra Nevadas John Muir called the "Range of Light." Offered October to December.
• Sierra Sunset Hike or Snowshoe leaves right from the lodge to view wildlife, old-growth forest and vistas down the Tuolumne River Canyon. Offered October to May.
• Wonders of Yosemite Naturalist Tour features both Yosemite Valley and the giant sequoias in a combination van tour and hike/snowshoe. Offered October to May.
• Fall Valley Explorer Hike & Tour is Evergreen's most in-depth and intimate look at Yosemite Valley via an old stagecoach route. Offered October to December.

The Evergreen's experienced recreation staff provides advice and guidance for planning customized adventures. They also offer maps and guides and an array of rental equipment such as mountain bikes, mountain strollers, snowshoes, trekking poles and GPS units.

Guests may also participate in numerous complimentary activities on site, such as s'mores over the campfire, horseshoe tournaments, kids' crafts, lectures, live music and more.

Massage Services

This year, the Evergreen Lodge expands its massage services with two picturesque locations to choose from. The new open-air cabana in a grove of cedars provides a secluded spot for a massage in nature.

The historic log cabin offers a charming indoor option. In-room massages in the privacy of guests' spacious cabins are also offered for an additional fee.

Treatments include Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, reflexology and sports massage and are available in hour or hour-and-a-half sessions. Prices start at $85.

All cabins at the lodge are heated. SIRIUS satellite radio, DVD players and a movie library are also complimentary. Evergreen is popular with couples, families, groups, weddings and corporate retreats.

Room rates vary from $89 to $299 depending on the season and type of cabin. For more information about the Evergreen's recreation program and massage services, visit http://www.evergreenlodge.com/, call (209) 379-2606 or email info@evergreenlodge.com.

Catherine Gaugh and her husband, Matt, with their dogs in Tidelands Park, at the south end of the Embarcadero in Morro Bay. (Photo by Doris Gaugh)

Morro Bay and Cambria: 240-270 miles

By Catherine Gaugh
Staff Writer

We visit the wonderful Central Coast as often as we can, and this time we decided to share it with our dogs and see how pet-friendly our favorite place really is.
The "boys" -- Cedric and Liberty -- are both Welsh corgi mixes, each about 35 pounds. Their favorite thing to do on car rides is to bounce all over the back seat, taking turns sticking their noses out the windows. We weren't having that for the 4.5-hour drive to the Central Coast. A pair of inexpensive individual booster seats from the Drs. Foster and Smith catalog solved that problem. A belt loops the booster around the rear car seat headrest and there is an interior hook to attach to their collars. They can see out the windows but can't get out of the seat, so they spent most of the ride sleeping between the stretch-your-legs breaks on the way up and back.
Our first destination was Cambria Shores Inn on Moonstone Beach in Cambria, which is touted in many pet-friendly travel directories. The small, 24-room motel is nested on a small rise along the crowded little Moonstone Drive, and it offers a swell view of the beach. Our room was one of six in the center of a row of rooms, so it had an ocean view from the front window -- except when a car parked in front of our door, which was just about all the time. No matter. A few steps outside and we had a choice of a center landscaped area or the front lawn; both offered an unobstructed view of this portion of lovely coastline.
The staff and the other guests were all very friendly from the time we drove up to check in, and everyone paid attention to our dogs, unusual mixed breeds that they are. We were happy with the pleasant and comfortable room with its soft white linens -- yes, white linens. (A bed cover is provided for dogs that like to sleep on the people bed.) The bathroom had been updated and is done in cool marble. An alcove has a coffee maker, microwave oven, a small refrigerator and an ice bucket with a pair of wine glasses. There is a new flat screen TV and an electric fireplace: we could have an instant romantic fire with the touch of a button. The windows, front and back, open to let in fresh air.
A breakfast of fruit, orange juice and pastries is served in big picnic baskets delivered to each room around 8 a.m. The dogs get a welcome basket, too: plastic bowls for food and water, a placemat, towels and dog biscuits.
Those tasty little dog biscuits are in plentiful supply near the office, and there's a special bathtub and hose on the grounds for post beach-walk cleanups (for the dogs, not you.)
There is a list of rules and regulations regarding the pets we had to sign when we checked in, including which lawn the dogs can pee on. The rules are quite reasonable, really. One of the no-nos was excessive barking. Our boys are "verbal," especially when we'rehome andsomeone dares to walk by the front of our house, or if they are hungry for dinner or if they figure it is time to take our walk. And they "talk" to us when they want dinner or to take a walk. So this rule gave us pause:Would our dogs get us kicked out of this nice place because they bark too much?
It didn't turn out to be a problem. Cedric and Liberty enjoyed the adventure of this new place and all the new smells. They weren't sure what to think of all the other dogs, so there was a little barking and a lot of sniffing. Thankfully, all the guests seemed to be on their best behavior and under control, humans and dogs alike!
"Sit and stay" was the order of the day for dogs and people. Most guests hung around the inn all day long and their chief activity was gazing at the ocean. They'd stare out at the sea while they had coffee and breakfast. They might take a short walk and then a nap. In the afternoon, they would open a bottle of wine and sit outside to watch the ocean some more. Most sent out for dinner, so they could sit and stay and watch the sunset.
We preferred to take long walks. The Moonstone Beach boardwalk is just across the street. It offers easy walking and the antics of hundreds of squirrels provided the boys with a lot of entertainment and intrigue. Dogs aren't allowed on the beach itself. (There is a beach where dogs are allowed, on a strip of sand south of the little community of Cayucos and north of Morro Bay city limits.)
It is too bad there isn't a pet-friendly restaurant on Moonstone Drive. While the Moonstone Grill is a short walk from the inn, no pets are allowed there. The inn provided a short list of pet-friendly eateries in Cambria's tourist area. We didn't get excited about trying any of them. There are at least three dog sitters associated with the inn, but you have to call and make the arrangements yourself.
We drove south to Morro Bay to frequent two dog-friendly places we knew about.
Tognazzi's Dockside 2 along the Embarcadero in Morro Bay is about 20 minutes south of Cambria. The outdoor patio is fenced and equipped with wall hooks for dog leashes, so the pups can't wander off while you eat. Try the barbecued oysters ($1.25 each), the bisque and fresh catch of the day. It reminds me how Morro Bay used to be a vibrant, busy commercial fishing port, but it has fallen off the last several years for lots of reasons. Tognazzi's is a holdover; it has its own fishing boat as well as a fish market.
After lunch, we walked a few feet to Morro Bay's new boardwalk, which offers a path all the way to the rock.
You can take your dogs to dinner with you at DiStasio's Italian Restaurant, on the south end of the Embarcadero. The space that houses DiStasio's was for a long time the home of the Hofbrau, which has moved north, and then the Pacific Cafe, which was fitness guru and Morro Bay resident Jack LaLanne's favorite dinner spot. (He orders wine with his fish.) There is a partially enclosed dining area downstairs with a great view of the harbor, and your dog is welcome. It filled up fast the night we were there. There aren't any dog biscuits, but the traditional Italian fare and seafood menu is people-pleasing.
After dinner, you and your pet can walk along the boulevard, peeking in at shops. The Shell Shop, perhaps the only shop that hasn't changed since it opened in 1955, stays open late so you can marvel at the range of kitschy shell art as well as some interesting true-life shells from seas all over the world. The Tidelands Park is also a nice stroll to the southernmost tip of the Embarcadero.

catherine.gaugh@sgvn.com
(626) 962-8811, Ext. 2479

DIRECTIONS: Head north on the 134 Freeway to the 101; take the Lake CachumaPass Road from the 101 in Santa Barbara, and rejoin 101 south of Santa Maria. The Highway 1 exit in San Luis Obispo takes you to Morro Bay and Cambria.

CAMBRIA SHORES INN
6276 Moonstone Beach Drive, Cambria
(805) 927-8644. Call for specials; $230-$290 per night; $15 additional per dog per night

TOGNAZZI'S DOCKSIDE 2
1245 Embarcadero, Morro Bay
(805) 772-8100. $1.25 barbecued oysters; $9 fish and chips, fresh catch of the day

DISTASIO'S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
571 Embarcadero, Morro Bay
(805) 771-8760. Italian food done nicely. Order something with cheese. Yum!
There also is a DiStasio's in neighboring Los Osos.

SHELL SHOP
590 Embarcadero, Morro Bay
(805) 772-8014

Mindy Bergen, left, formerly of La Verne, now a teacher in Aurora, Colo., and daughter Ryann, inspect a starfish at SeaWorld's hands-on tide pool in San Diego. Photo by Stan Wawer

SeaWorld, San Diego: 115 miles

By Stan Wawer
Staff Writer
"Oh no, whale!" my 21-month-old granddaughter, Ryann, exclaimed as Shamu breached the water, flipped over, and slid back into the pool with barely a ripple.
Ryann clapped and giggled in a child's wonderment as Shamu, the star of the SeaWorld show, entertained a packed stadium for 25 minutes in San Diego. We sat in the "wet zone," the first 16 rows, for an added bit of fun.
"Believe," the name of the show, is the best family entertainment anywhere. Well worth the high admission price of $61 for anyone older than 9, and $51 for guests 3 through 9.
The captivating and visually stunning Shamu show transports hearts to the edge of wonder. The inspirational show reflects the close relationship SeaWorld trainers have with the killer whales as the Orcas go through a series of incredible behaviors.
Another show, "Shamu Rocks," combines the flash of a rock concert with the splash of Shamu in a nightly performance. The show blends dazzling lighting effects, rock 'n' roll music and killer whales.
SeaWorld San Diego also has a number of other excellent family activities, including Cirque de la Mer, Dolphin Discovery, Clyde and Seamore's Risky Rescue, Sea Lions Tonite and Pets Rule.
The electrifying Cirque de la Mer combines mysterious creatures, acrobatics, music and special effects. The show is full of organic ocean shapes, whimsical characters and amazing physical feats. It's offered through Labor Day.
My granddaughter loved the California tide pool. The tide pool, representing one of the ocean's richest environments, allows young and old alike the chance to touch a starfish, sea urchin and other fascinating sea creatures.
The Freshwater Aquarium offers many species, including four-eyed fish, electric eels and stingrays.
Aquarium de la Mer is home to many exotic and beautiful creatures, ranging from tiny seahorses and the giant Pacific octopus to the venomous, but beautiful, lionfish and delicate jellyfish.
The World of the Sea Aquarium features a tropical display of warm water fish found in the Caribbean, South Pacific, Gulf of Mexico and Indian Ocean.
Its local marine display simulates a snorkel trip or scuba dive off the coast of San Diego.
And, of course, SeaWorld has rides. Journey to Atlantis is top of the list for thrill seekers. This water coaster twists you around serpentine turns and plunges you eight stories as a grand finale.
Shipwreck Rapids spins and splashes through river rapids, an underground cavern and dripping cargo nets as you swirl around a tropical island. A small raft carries nine shipwrecked passengers on a five-minute journey through an isolated South Pacific island.
SeaWorld Skyride is a six-minute roundtrip across beautiful Mission Bay. SeaWorld Skytower, closed the late June day we visited, takes you up 265 feet for a panoramic view of the San Diego skyline and Mission Bay.
SeaWorld has three animal interaction programs that can be booked online at www.SeaWorldSanDiego.com.
The Dolphin Encounter lets you feed, touch and interact with dolphins without getting wet. The exclusive Dolphin Interaction Program allows you to splash and play with dolphins. Learn about these intelligent creatures, then wade into the dolphin pool to practice behaviors with these amazing animals. Wetsuits and booties are provided. The cost is $150. Participants must be at least 6 years old and at least 44 inches tall.
The Wild Arctic Interaction is new. Put on a wetsuit to interact with awesome Beluga white whales. The price is $160, and everyone must be at least 10 years old.
Trainer For a Day costs $495. Participants must be at least 13 years old and be in good physical condition. This five-hour program includes admission, souvenir T-shirt, dolphin training and lunch. It's not cheap, but what an experience!
Whatever you decide, SeaWorld is family entertainment at its best.

SeaWorld park hours Saturday and Sunday are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Hours for Monday, Labor Day, are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Hours for the remainder of September are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily and 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. weekends. Times vary the remainder of the year.
To reach SeaWorld, take the Santa Ana (5) Freeway south and exit at SeaWorld Drive or take the Ontario (15) Freeway south to Interstate 8 west, to the 5 Freeway north. Exit at SeaWorld Drive and follow the signs.
Hotels are plentiful in the area with Hotel Circle just a short drive away. Check out a number of online sites by typing in San Diego Hotel Circle.

Just ahead of "Crush," the most popular time of year in Napa Valley, The Westin Verasa, Napa is now accepting hotel reservations and has uncorked an introductory rate of $289 per night.

When The Westin celebrates its grand opening on Sept. 18, visitors will encounter a unique wine country getaway. Located only blocks away from The American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts, and the new Oxbow Public Market, the hotel is destined to become a focal point of Downtown Napa.

It will become a culinary destination thanks to Chef Ken Frank, who is moving his award-winning restaurant La Toque, named one of the "Best Restaurants in America" by The Wine Spectator, to The Westin Verasa, Napa.

Rates are subject to change and based on availability. This price will expire on Nov. 15, 2008. For reservations and information visit www.westin.com/verasanapa.