SEIZE THE DAY

Whether you decide to travel by land or sea, Southern California’s diverse ecosystems are awaiting to be explored.

Oceanic Adventures

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Catalina Express

Operating a large fleet of boats that make round trips daily from three mainland ports (Long Beach is the closest to Anaheim at about 25 miles away), Catalina Express is your best bet to visit the pristine city of Avalon. Book a bison-watching expedition or a zip line eco tour in the island’s interior; relax in a cabana at the Descanso Beach Club, or wander the Catalina Island Museum before your return trip boards. 320 Golden Shore, Long Beach, 800-613-1212; catalinaexpress.com

City Experiences by Hornblower™

With weekend jazz brunches, sunset cocktail hours, and four-course seated dinners, there is a cruise for every occasion. If you’re visiting during the holidays, you can float down Newport Bay in lights as part of the annual Christmas boat parade. The mainland port in Newport is about 25 miles from Anaheim. 2431 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach; 949-646-0155; cityexperiences.com

Cruise Newport Beach

Choose from two hour-long cruises that tour Newport Bay and the coastline in the early evening or at sunset. Cruises feature live Latin and Spanish music, complimentary chips and salsa, and drink specials. 400 Main St., Newport Beach; 949-673-1489; cruisenewportbeach.com

Dana Wharf

Jump aboard a charter that departs daily from Dana Point Harbor for whale-watching expeditions, sportfishing, and private boat excursions. The summer season sees 100-foot-long blue whales, while winter travelers are likely to spot a migrating gray whale. Sightings of dolphins, sea lions, seafaring birds, and the occasional shark are standard year-round. Fishing licenses should be purchased online prior to your trip.

34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point; 949-4965794; danawharf.com

Davey’s Locker

A SoCal institution since the 1940s, Davey’s Locker o ers daily, year-round whale watching, sportfishing, and deep-sea fishing cruises, with multiple options for half- or fullday trips. The company also provides rental gear and a knowledgeable crew to ensure a memorable voyage. 400 Main St., Newport Beach; 949-673-1434; daveyslocker.com

Desert Getaways

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Joshua Tree National Park

Depending on tra c, the roughly 110-mile drive takes two to three hours, but the otherworldly landscape is well worth it. Hike, climb, or boulder through more than 1,200 square miles of desert, dotted with native, spiky Joshua trees. The quaint town near the park entrance is the perfect pit stop for a meal before or after. Visitors Center: 6554 Park Blvd., Joshua Tree; 760-367-5500; nps. gov/jotr/index.htm

Palm Springs

An oasis for golf and 1950s Hollywood glamour in the Coachella Valley, this escape o ers world-class spa resorts and casinos, hot springs, and gorgeous hikes. Tour the city to see some of its best mid-century modern homes and buildings, ask for a dirty martini at one of Frank Sinatra’s famous hangouts, or simply lounge by a pool in the dry heat. visitpalmsprings.com