WHAT’S NEW IN CALIFORNIA

SUMMER 2018

Visit California Unveils

New Media Center
Visit California is pleased to
present this newsletter describing Visit California’s newly revamped online family fun, luxury, arts and entertainment, or
new developments taking place media center media.visitcalifornia.com outdoor adventure—and the site will serve themed
throughout the Golden State. Please
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note that dates listed are subject to
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also available online on our media site Media or travel trade professionals visiting profiles; statewide facts and figures; regional profiles
listed below. Simply look for What’s
the site can choose their location to get for each of California’s 12 distinct tourism regions; a
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and region. markets (U.S. will be the default): Australia, and the “What’s New in California” newsletter.
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Consumer Website:
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MEDIA CONTACT: KRISTEN BONILLA, VISIT CALIFORNIA,
www.visitcalifornia.com The homepage displays the latest featured (916) 319-5421, KBONILLA@VISITCALIFORNIA.COM,
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
© 2018 Visit California content and also provides the option to
PUBLIC CONTACT: VISIT CALIFORNIA, (916) 444-4429,
customize content based on interest—culinary, INFO@VISITCALIFORNIA.COM, WWW.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM

IN THIS ISSUE
Accommodations.............................................. 2 Family Fun.........................................................14 Technology & Tours..........................................17

Culinary............................................................... 7 Outdoor Recreation.........................................16 Wellness.............................................................19

Arts & Entertainment.......................................12 Shopping............................................................16 Milestones..........................................................19

2 VISIT CALIFORNIA
STATEWIDE
California Now Podcast
Available in iTunes
Exploring what makes the Golden State
one of the world’s top travel destinations,
Visit California’s new podcast, California
Now, launched in May with three episodes
available to download on iTunes.
Hosted by Soterios Johnson, an award-
winning journalist and former host—of
14 years—of WNYC’s Morning Edition, the
California Now Podcast features conversations
connecting audiences with some of the
state’s most intriguing people and places.
Season one will feature 12 episodes total,
with each episode showcasing three guests,
including world-renowned travel experts
like Samantha Brown, Patricia Schultz and
Pauline Frommer, as well as local experts like
Tanya Holland, Executive Chef of Brown
Sugar Kitchen in Oakland and Jon Bonne,
author of The New California Wine.
The California Now podcast invites listeners
to visit California and uncover parts of
the state they may not be familiar with,
covering every region and travel niche,
from family and outdoor adventure to
culinary and luxury. Each episode features
show notes that provide easy access to
related content on www.visitcalifornia.com,
allowing listeners to take a deeper dive and
make their California dream a reality.
Download in iTunes now:
http://bit.ly/CANowPodcast.
MEDIA CONTACT: KRISTEN BONILLA, VISIT CALIFORNIA,
(916) 319-5421, KBONILLA@VISITCALIFORNIA.COM,
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: VISIT CALIFORNIA,
(916) 444-4429, INFO@VISITCALIFORNIA.COM,
WWW.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
WHAT’S NEW IN CALIFORNIA SUMMER 2018
New Series: Adventures
in Kidifornia
This May, Visit California launched a new
original “edutainment” series—one part
education and one part entertainment—shining
a spotlight on California family experiences
that provide both fun and enrichment.
Using a unique blend of live action footage and
2D animation, the series follows parents and
children as they engage in discovery throughout
California. Fun facts appear on the screen
throughout the videos, encouraging a mindset
of curiosity and an eagerness to explore.
Two episodes were released for the pilot season,
each shot in sunny San Diego—a location
known for family fun—and bring viewers along
to Cabrillo National Monument and the USS
Midway Museum.​A third episode in the pilot
series featuring SeaWorld is coming soon.
The new series lives on Dream365TV
alongside Visit California’s other original
series like Jonny Moseley’s Wildest
Dreams and California Dream Eater.
Watch: www.visitcalifornia.com/dream365tv
MEDIA CONTACT: KRISTEN BONILLA, VISIT CALIFORNIA,
(916) 319-5421, KBONILLA@VISITCALIFORNIA.COM,
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: VISIT CALIFORNIA, (916) 444-4429,
INFO@VISITCALIFORNIA.COM, WWW.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
Visit California Taps
Leading Digital Influencers
for Insights and Trends
In efforts to continuously enhance Visit
California’s influencer marketing strategy,
the organization created a Digital Influencer
Advisory Board, comprised of leading
North American digital influencers who
are skilled in creating the most innovative
digital content across the culinary, luxury,
adventure travel and lifestyle segments.
As a destination marketing organization,
Visit California prides itself on being an
industry champion in digital marketing. The
Digital Influencer Advisory Board was created
to uphold this standard, by collaborating
with its members to refine best practices for
working with influencers, set benchmarks for
tracking ROI with influencer marketing, and
create long-term partnerships with leading
travel and lifestyle digital influencers.
The eight members represent a diverse range
of expertise and strengths across major social
platforms including Instagram, Facebook,
YouTube, Twitter and blogs. Members include:
Damon Dominique and Joanna Franco,
“Shut Up and Go Travel;” Dave Bouskill and
Debra Corbeil ,The Planet D; Jessica Hirsch,
@CheatDayEats; Scott Eddy, @MrScottEddy;
Stephanie Buelna, TravelBreak; and
Steven Kenniff, Must Do Travels.
The Digital Advisory Board formally
commenced in November 2017, with a
meeting in Sacramento, California. Since
then, the advisory board has participated in
Visit California’s crisis response and several
content partnerships. The second formal
meeting of the advisory board took place
on April 25 in Santa Barbara, California.
MEDIA CONTACT: KRISTEN BONILLA, VISIT CALIFORNIA,
(916) 319-5421, KBONILLA@VISITCALIFORNIA.COM,
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: VISIT CALIFORNIA, (916) 444-4429,
INFO@VISITCALIFORNIA.COM, WWW.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
ACCOMMODATIONS
BEVERLY HILLS
Beverly Hills Hotels
Get a Makeover
Two Beverly Hills hotels recently debuted a
stylish new look, just in time for summer. The
Peninsula Beverly Hills just completed a four-
month-long redesign in early March, including
195 updated guest rooms—38 of which are
suites and 17 are private villas. The redesign
included refreshing furnishings such as window
dressings and bed canopies along with in-room
technology such as interactive digital bedside
tablets that control room temperature, lighting
and access to a variety of hotel services. The
Beverly Hilton recently launched its new outdoor

space, The Gardens, comprising of two distinct
settings: the alfresco Wilshire Garden and the
connecting Secret Garden. The spaces boast
stunning elements including a lush, green lawn,
living succulent walls and a waterfall feature.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: LAUREN LYNCH,
BEVERLY HILLS CONFERENCE & VISITORS BUREAU,
(310) 248-1015 EXT. 204, LYNCH@LOVEBEVERLYHILLS.COM,
WWW.LOVEBEVERLYHILLS.COM
BURBANK
AC Hotel to Premiere
Soon in Burbank
The upcoming AC Hotel in Burbank will take
a couple of years to complete, but will be worth
the wait. Opening in 2020, this 196-room,
six-story hotel across the street from the newly
renovated Burbank Town Center will feature a
3,800-square-foot restaurant space, street-level
public courtyard, pool and rooftop observation
deck. Inspired by classic European design, the
AC Hotel will boast a new lifestyle concept
for Burbank, with accommodations geared
toward the millennial traveler working in the
media, entertainment and hi-tech industries.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: ROBIN FAULK, VISIT
BURBANK, (818) 693-6478, ROBINFAULK@ATT.NET,
WWW.VISITBURBANK.COM
WHAT’S NEW CREDITS AND CONTACTS
PUBLICATION CREDITS
What’s New is produced and distributed by
Visit California. Visit California is a not-for-
profit, 501(C)(6) corporation formed in 1998
to work jointly with the State of California’s
Division of Tourism to implement the annual
Marketing Plan, which promotes California as
a travel destination.
State Of California
Edmund G. Brown Jr., Governor
Visit California
Caroline Beteta, Chief Executive Officer
© 2018 Visit California
CARLSBAD
Sheraton/Westin Carlsbad
Opening this Summer
Capitalizing on the dual-brand hotel brand
concept trend, the Westin Carlsbad Resort
& Spa aims to open its doors at the Westin/
Sheraton Carlsbad campus in July 2018. Both
hotels plan to offer a truly elevated room
experience, as well as incomparable views of
the Pacific Ocean and rolling green hills, and
access to amenities offered at both properties.
The Westin’s resort design will feature custom-
designed furniture, lighting, luxurious carpeting
and LVT flooring in all guestrooms, as well as
the Westin Heavenly bed. The Westin’s signature
pool will be the heart of the resort and will
overlook the Carlsbad foothills. The Sheraton
Carlsbad Resort & Spa, currently open, will
soon introduce a new pool with a waterslide,
sand entry pool, family activity center adjacent
to the pool area, and fire pits to complete the
iconic coastal California experience. Guests
can recharge with a massage at Sheraton’s
Ocean Pearl Spa or refuel at TWENTY/20,
the signature Carlsbad restaurant.
MEDIA CONTACT: LAUREN WEIL, WAGSTAFF WORLDWIDE,
(323) 871-1151, LWEIL@WAGSTAFFWORLDWIDE.COM,
WWW.VISITCARLSBAD.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: SAM ROSS, VISIT CARLSBAD,
(760) 434-6093, INFO@VISITCARLSBAD.COM,
WWW.VISITCARLSBAD.COM
CONSUMER CONTACTS
Consumers can receive free California
travel planning information by visiting
www.visitcalifornia.com or by writing to:
Visit California
555 Capitol Mall, Ste 1100
Sacramento, CA 95814
Tel: (916) 444‑4429
Fax: (916) 444‑0410
E-mail: info@visitcalifornia.com
Residents of the United States and Canada
can also receive travel planning information
by calling 1-(800) 862‑2543. International
travelers need to dial (916) 444‑4429.
3
CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
PlumpJack Group
Reveals New Getaway
in Carmel-by-the-Sea
San Francisco-based PlumpJack Group just
unveiled The Getaway—a transformation
of the former Carmel Village Inn in the
picturesque seaside village of Carmel-by-the-
Sea. PlumpJack aims to inspire visitors to the
new boutique inn with its youthful, energetic
look and vibe. The Getaway, a sister property
to The Hideaway in Carmel-by-the-Sea, offers
34 updated guestrooms with new Denver Co.
mattresses, earth toned tiling, bright coloring,
and a refreshed lobby and exterior landscaping.
MEDIA CONTACT: JESSICA KEENER, MONTEREY COUNTY
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU, (831) 657-6413,
MEDIA@SEEMONTEREY.COM, WWW.SEEMONTEREY.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: PLUMPJACK GROUP, PLUMPJACK GROUP,
(415) 346-5712, INFO@PLUMPJACK.COM,
WWW.THEGETAWAYCARMEL.COM
GROVELAND
Historic Hotel Near
Yosemite National
Park Gets a Facelift
The Groveland Hotel, one of Tuolumne County’s
oldest buildings, now boasts a fresh new look
that merges the best of the past and present.
The original building, constructed of adobe in
MEDIA CONTACTS
media.visitcalifornia.com
Ryan Becker
Vice President of Communications
(916) 319‑5403 | rbecker@visitcalifornia.com
Angie Pappas
Director of Communications
(916) 233-0255 | apappas@visitcalifornia.com
Kristen Bonilla
Domestic Public Relations Manager
(916) 319‑5421 | kbonilla@visitcalifornia.com
Lindsey Guinn
International Public Relations Manager
(916) 233‑0303 | lguinn@visitcalifornia.com
Molly Okumura
Media Relations Coordinator
What’s New in California Editor
(916) 233‑0277 | mokumura@visitcalifornia.com
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
4 VISIT CALIFORNIA
1849, has seen few alterations throughout its
history. Proprietors Doug and Jenn Edwards,
who also own Hotel Charlotte, purchased The
Groveland to preserve its historic charm while
providing modern comforts. The overhaul
included deep carpeting, fresh paint, recessed
lighting, double-paned windows for better
insulation and interesting artwork, along
with new beds, linens and comforters. The
exterior now sports a refreshed appearance,
painted a warm shade that emulates its core
adobe structure. A new stately fence creates
a sanctuary for relaxing and enjoying a good
book, glass of wine or refreshing beer.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: KATIE KIRKLAND,
TUOLUMNE COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU, (209) 533-4420,
KATIE@GOTUOLUMNE.COM, WWW.VISITTUOLUMNE.COM
HALF MOON BAY
Best Western Hotel-
Cameron’s Inn Opens
This July
Opening on July 20, visitors will have a new
place to stay at the 46-room Best Western
Hotel-Cameron’s Inn, adjacent to fun and
family friendly English-style Cameron’s
Pub. Located in an ideal location, the hotel
is perfect for a relaxing getaway with easy
access to the beach and nature trails. Guests
will enjoy hotel amenities including a full
complimentary hot breakfast, exercise room,
business center, guest laundry room, and a
24-hour front desk equipped to direct guests
to their excursions throughout Half Moon
Bay. The hotel is conveniently located nearby
a variety of restaurants, shops, and key
area attractions that will keep hotel guests
busy and entertained during their stay.
MEDIA CONTACT: DAVID ROMERO, BEST WESTERN
PLUS CAMERON’S INN, (650) 372-5151 EXT. 103,
DAVID@STAYCAL.COM, WWW.CAMERONSINN.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: BEST WESTERN PLUS CAMERON’S
INN, (650) 713-5151, INFO@CAMERONSINN.COM,
WWW.CAMERONSINN.COM
HALF MOON BAY
The Ritz-Carlton, Half
Moon Bay Unveils New
Meeting and Event Space
Overlooking the grand vistas of Northern
California’s coastline, The Ritz-Carlton, Half
Moon Bay has opened two brand-new meeting
WHAT’S NEW IN CALIFORNIA SUMMER 2018
spaces—“Pescadero” and “Moss Beach”—in
addition to the complete renovation of its
existing event facilities. The new Pescadero room
is 1,691 square feet of board-room style space
and can accommodate 30-210 guests. While
the Moss Beach venue, located on the second
level, is 675 square feet with a capacity of 24-50
guests. The new modern classic design, inspired
by the dramatic Pacific Ocean and beaches of the
Northern California coast, incorporates shades
of the ocean, setting suns, and shapes of sea plant
life. Wall coverings in hues of silver and gray,
which are adorned with sconces reminiscent of
earth elements, are illuminated by the stunning
gilded chandeliers. The combined expansion of
meeting space and renovation brings the iconic
luxury resort’s meeting spaces to 35,000 square
feet, the most of any luxury Bay Area resort.
MEDIA CONTACT: SHELLY AUYEUNG,
THE RITZ-CARLTON, HALF MOON BAY,
(650) 712-7007, SHELLY.AUYEUNG@RITZCARLTON.COM,
WWW.RITZCARLTON.COM/EN/HOTELS/CALIFORNIA/
HALF-MOON-BAY
PUBLIC CONTACT: THE RITZ-CARLTON,
HALF MOON BAY, (650) 712-7000,
RC-HALFMOONBAYLEADS@RITZCARLTON.COM,
WWW.RITZCARLTON.COM/EN/HOTELS/CALIFORNIA/
HALF-MOON-BAY
KENWOOD
Kenwood Inn & Spa
Reopens Following
Wine Country Fires
Sonoma Valley’s Kenwood Inn & Spa—closed
since last October’s wine country wildfires—
just reopened. Although the iconic Valley of
the Moon property did not burn, it did suffer
damage from smoke and high winds. Restoration
of the 29-room property included cleaning
and repairing plaster, replacing and refreshing
some furnishings and décor, reimagining some
interior spaces, and renovating landscaping.
Other improvements, such as the addition of
locker rooms in the spa, should be completed
by this summer. Designed with serenity in
mind, the Mediterranean-style inn features
Italian furnishings and fireplaces, and sits on
more than 2 1/2 peaceful acres, surrounded
by vineyards, orchards and ancient oaks.
MEDIA CONTACT: SHARON ROONEY, FOUR SISTERS
INNS, (707) 838-1637, SHARON@FOURSISTERS.COM,
WWW.FOURSISTERS.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: SCARLETT GRAHAM, KENWOOD
INN & SPA, A FOUR SISTERS INN, (800) 353-6966,
KENWOODINN@FOURSISTERS.COM,
WWW.KENWOODINN.COM
LAGUNA BEACH
Hotel Joaquin Opening
in Laguna Beach
A new boutique hotel is taking over the old
digs of what used to be the Motor Inn with a
complete facelift and renovation from the inside
out. Located at 985 North Coast Highway, the
hotel’s Facebook page describes the essence of
the new hotel. “By the Mexican Land Grant of
Rancho San Joaquin, which encompassed much
of present-day Orange County, the concept
of Hotel Joaquin was born—a boutique hotel
in Laguna Beach that embraces the land’s
Spanish heritage while marrying California’s
rich coastline.” Its upscale sister hotel located
in Palm Springs, Korakia Pensione, was named
“One of the ‘Sexiest Hotels in America,’”
according to Forbes Traveler 2008 and New
York Times 2009. Coming summer 2018.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: LANA JOHNSON, VISIT LAGUNA
BEACH, (949) 212-1499, LANAJOHNSON@ME.COM,
WWW.VISITLAGUNABEACH.COM
LAKEHEAD
Floating Palace Sails
into Shasta Marina at
Packers Bay
A new generation of luxury houseboats will
sail into Shasta Marina at Packers Bay this
summer. “The Sumerset” model houseboats,
65-feet-long, offer spectacular quarters on the
lake paired with state-of-the-art technology.
The reverse floor plan puts the kitchen
and salon at the rear, giving the living area
a panoramic lake view. All boats feature
complete furnishings and include four private
staterooms, one semi-private stateroom and a
helm room, in addition to two full bathrooms
with showers. Other favorite features include
a gas fireplace and an entertainment center
with satellite TV, DVD, CD and iPod
capability. Fully equipped kitchens boast
stainless steel appliances, including an electric
fridge, cooktop range with oven, toaster,
coffee maker, microwave, dishwasher and
blender. The upper deck features an eight-
person hot tub, sun deck and swim slide.
MEDIA CONTACT: LISA MAY, SHASTA-CASCADE
WONDERLAND ASSOCIATION, (530) 917-4140,
LISA@SHASTACASCADE.ORG,
WWW.SHASTACASCADE.ORG
PUBLIC CONTACT: CINDY HARKRADER, SHASTA
MARINA, (530) 238-2284, CINDY@SHASTALAKE.NET,
WWW.SHASTALAKE.NET

LOS ANGELES
New Hotels Opening
in Los Angeles
Several hotels are slated to open or reopen in
Los Angeles in 2018. In January 2018, Sydell
Group opened the Los Angeles outpost of
New York’s NoMad Hotel. The NoMad is
redeveloped out of Downtown’s Giannini
Place, which was built in 1923. The 12-story
hotel has 241 rooms and suites as well as a
rooftop pool. L.A. is the first city where three
Sydell Group brands are represented. Proper
Hospitality, the new brand headed by former
Viceroy Hotels chief Brad Korzen, is slated
to debut their first Los Angeles hotel (joining
their residential project, Hollywood Proper
Residences) with Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel
located at the site of the former Case Hotel. The
13-story property, which was built in 1924, will
have 148 rooms and has plans to open in fall
2018. The 60,000-square-foot Godfrey Hotel,
located in Hollywood, will be a high-end
boutique property that addresses the lifestyle
of the contemporary jet-setting professional.
The hotel will feature amenities that will allow
travelers to conduct business both locally and
remotely, while enjoying the unique room and
food experiences that the Godfrey brand has
become known for in Chicago and Boston.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: DENISE LENGYELTOTI,
DISCOVER LOS ANGELES, (213) 236-2357,
DLENGYELTOTI@LATOURISM.ORG,
WWW.DISCOVERLOSANGELES.COM
MORRO BAY
New Inn at Morro Bay
Debuts Refreshed
Public Spaces
The Inn at Morro Bay, overlooking the bay,
Morro Rock and Pacific Ocean, now offers
refreshed public spaces for private reflection
and group enjoyment. Located on 4,000 acres
in beautiful Morro Bay State Park near
wineries, antique shops, wildlife preserves and
centuries-old missions, the Inn just renovated
the 4,860-square-foot Bay View Deck with
a natural shale stone tile, featuring romantic
views for weddings or special events for up
to 250 people. The updated area, part of
the property’s 10,000 square feet of indoor
and outdoor flexible event space, also offers
on-site catering, beverage and bar services,
audio visual equipment, and more. The Inn
will soon unveil another newly renovated
meeting space, the 1,120-square-foot Cayucos
Room, which will hold up to 60 people.
MEDIA CONTACT: SUSAN HARTZLER,
MENTAL MARKETING, (818) 585-8641,
SHARTZLER@MENTALMARKETING.COM,
WWW.MENTALMARKETING.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: JENNIFER LITTLE, MORRO BAY
TOURISM, (805) 225-1570, JLITTLE@MORROBAYCA.ORG,
WWW.MORROBAY.ORG
NAPA
Wine-Centric Vista Collina
Resort “Ferments” Napa
Valley’s Hotel Scene
This summer the new Vista Collina resort aims
to shake up the Napa Valley hotel and wine
scenes—in a good way. Nestled amongst the
rolling hills of Napa, Vista Collina will raise
the bar on offering a complete wine country
experience by offering a tasting Village;
a locally-sourced, artisanal market; and a
spacious community lawn for picnics, play
and private concerts. The Village curates the
best of Napa with nine tasting rooms featuring
renowned boutique wineries, as well as the
Fivetown Grocery, a Food & Wine Center with
seminars and an expansive 16,000-square-
foot event lawn with a rotating calendar of
events. The resort will also provide expansive
meeting space, pet-friendly amenities and a
complimentary shuttle to downtown Napa.
MEDIA CONTACT: ANDREW BRADLEY, VISTA
COLLINA RESORT | THE MERITAGE RESORT AND SPA,
(707) 251-1942, ABRADLEY@MERITAGERESORT.COM,
WWW.VISTACOLLINARESORT.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: VISTA COLLINA RESORT TEAM,
VISTA COLLINA RESORT, (707) 251-3060,
INFO@VISTACOLLINARESORT.COM,
WWW.VISTACOLLINARESORT.COM
OAKLAND
Claremont Club & Spa
Updates Meeting Space
Claremont Club & Spa is scheduled to
complete the refresh of its 20,000 square
feet of meeting space this summer, including
two versatile ballrooms and all mezzanine-
level meeting rooms, several of which offer
expansive Bay views. The project includes
5
updated carpets, wall coverings, furniture and
décor, as well as new meeting room names
that pay homage to the East Bay and the
neighborhood Claremont has called home
for over 100 years. An exciting mural of
Oakland’s skyline, painted by a local artist,
will also debut as part of the property’s ongoing
renovations since rebranding in 2015.
MEDIA CONTACT: FRANCES WONG, VISIT OAKLAND,
(510) 208-0561, FRANCES@VISITOAKLAND.COM,
WWW.VISITOAKLAND.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: VISITOR INFORMATION, VISIT
OAKLAND, (510) 839-9000, INFO@VISITOAKLAND.COM,
WWW.VISITOAKLAND.COM
SAN DIEGO
Luxury Brand
InterContinental San Diego
Returns this Summer
The luxury brand InterContinental San Diego
will open this summer after a 30-year absence.
The second of two hotels debuting on the
former Lane Field baseball park—the original
home of the Pacific Coast League Padres—
the new construction property will feature
400 rooms and suites, a two-story Del Frisco’s
Double Eagle Steakhouse, nearly 33,000 square
feet of street-level restaurants and shops, and
a 686-space subterranean parking garage. The
hotel’s meeting space of 35,000 square feet
includes both indoor and outdoor venues with
two ballrooms (12,000 and 4,500 square feet).
The adjoining 50,000-square-foot Lane Field
park will be available for private events. Guests
can enjoy views of the bay on the 8,000-square-
foot fourth-floor pool deck, which includes
an area open to the public, as well as a sky
bar and outdoor terrace on the 19th floor.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: SARAH WEINBERG-SCALO,
SAN DIEGO TOURISM AUTHORITY, (619) 557-2838,
SWEINBERG@SANDIEGO.ORG, WWW.SANDIEGO.ORG
SAN DIEGO
Paradise Point Resort &
Spa Completes Renovation
Paradise Point Resort & Spa, one of San
Diego’s quintessential waterfront properties,
will complete a comprehensive property
renovation to all 462 rooms by May 2018.
Located on Mission Bay, guests can enjoy
reimagined accommodations, including
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
6 VISIT CALIFORNIA
updated bungalow-style guest rooms with
new luxurious California coastal décor such
as seaside-inspired headboards, contemporary
furnishings, nautical artwork and eco-friendly
lighting. The rooms boast fully remodeled
marble bathrooms complete with blue
bohemian floor tiles and luxurious walk-in
showers. In addition to newly renovated
San Diego accommodations, guests can enjoy
the Spa at Paradise Point; signature restaurant
Tidal; multiple pools; and resort activities
including beach bonfires with s’mores, sailing
lessons, mini-golf, bike rentals and more.
MEDIA CONTACT: CHANDLER TAYLOR,
J PUBLIC RELATIONS, (219) 255-7069,
PARADISEPOINT@JPUBLICRELATIONS.COM,
WWW.DESTINATIONHOTELS.COM/PARADISE-POINT
PUBLIC CONTACT: CASEY SPECHT, PARADISE
POINT RESORT & SPA, (858) 240-4913,
CSPECHT@DESTINATIONHOTELS.COM,
WWW.DESTINATIONHOTELS.COM/PARADISE-POINT
SAN FRANCISCO
Lodge at The Presidio
This summer the new Lodge at the Presidio will
open as the closest lodging in San Francisco to
the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Located in the
heart of the Presidio, San Francisco’s national
park, the Lodge is scheduled to open in June
and will provide unparalleled views of the
bridge, the Presidio’s lush 300-acre forest, the
San Francisco Bay and the city skyline. Housed
in a former U.S. Army barracks dating back to
1895, the rehabilitated lodge will exemplify the
highest standards of sustainability. Guests will
enjoy a courtyard garden with a fire pit, a front
porch with rocking chairs, and a dining room
lounge featuring complimentary breakfast and
evening wine and cheese receptions. Concierge
service will assist guests 24 hours daily to help
active travelers discover the national park. The
Lodge’s central location will offer easy access to
the amenities of the park and downtown San
Francisco, serving as the starting point for both
natural and urban adventures.
MEDIA CONTACT: KELLY CHAMBERLIN,
CHAMBERLIN PUBLIC RELATIONS, (415) 336-4332,
KELLY@CHAMBERLINPR.COM, WWW.CHAMBERLINPR.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: TERRY HANEY, LODGE AT THE PRESIDIO,
(415) 926-8223, THANEY@INNATTHEPRESIDIO.COM,
WWW.LODGEATTHEPRESIDIO.COM
WHAT’S NEW IN CALIFORNIA SUMMER 2018
SAN FRANCISCO
Four Seasons Hotel
San Francisco Wraps Up
$20 Million Dollar Remodel
The Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco aims
to usher in a new standard of luxury with the
recent debut of its 277 renovated guest rooms
and suites. The cornerstone of the makeover’s
final phase, the remodel includes updates to
46 suites, including two Presidential Suites. To
create eye-catching décor, the hotel partnered
with New York-based Meyer Davis, who
took inspiration from the organic forms and
unique materials of the Bay Area and paired
them with a streamlined and contemporary
approach. Located on floors six through 17 of
the 42-story building, the rooms feature shades
of blue with cool steel tones that complement
the brass and gold accents to create a modern
oasis above the vibrant city. The rooms
give a nod to California Modernism with
their tailored finishes and flooring choices,
playful furnishings, interesting art displays,
graphic carpets, veined marble touches,
textured fabrics and rich walnut materials.
MEDIA CONTACT: MEG PAYNOR, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL
SAN FRANCISCO, (206) 913-3848, MEG@PAYNORPR.COM,
WWW.PRESS.FOURSEASONS.COM/SANFRANCISCO
PUBLIC CONTACT: AUSTIN PHILLIPS, FOUR SEASONS
HOTEL SAN FRANCISCO, (415) 633-3000,
AUSTIN.PHILLIPS@FOURSEASONS.COM,
WWW.FOURSEASONS.COM/SANFRANCISCO
SAN FRANCISCO
Stanford Court Revamps
Rooms and Public Spaces
The Stanford Court just debuted seven
newly revamped guest rooms, marking the
completion of its multimillion-dollar update
designed for the modern traveler in the digital
age. The cutting-edge Nob Hill property now
boasts property-wide upgrades, including a
redesigned lobby, public space, restaurant
and bar, in addition to a high-tech 24-hour
fitness center. Owners of the 400-room
hotel partnered with EDG design to create
an edgy, yet inviting aesthetic featuring a
happy blend of comfort, classic and cool.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: ASHLEY HAMIK,
BREAD & BUTTER PR, (707) 849-0212,
ASHLEY@BREADANDBUTTERPR.COM,
WWW.STANFORDCOURT.COM
SAN FRANCISCO
Westin St. Francis
Completes $45 Million
Renovation
The Westin St. Francis has completed its largest
renovation ever undertaken of the historic
1904 Landmark Building, which is comprised
of 618 guestrooms and four Specialty Suites
on 12 floors. The new design by Dallas-based
Forest Perkins is inspired by San Francisco’s
moniker as “The Paris of the West” and is
reminiscent of a lovely spring day in Paris. The
sophisticated color scheme of Parisian blue,
goldenrod yellow, and peony pink throughout
the guestrooms complements the original
crystal chandeliers, crown molding, and high
ceilings from the early 1900s. The iconic
Westin St. Francis is located in the heart of San
Francisco’s Union Square, making it an ideal
home base for travelers exploring the nearby
shops, restaurants and cultural attractions.
MEDIA CONTACT: KELLY CHAMBERLIN,
CHAMBERLIN PUBLIC RELATIONS, (415) 336-4332,
KELLY@CHAMBERLINPR.COM, WWW.CHAMBERLINPR.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: GENA EGELSTON, WESTIN ST.
FRANCIS, (415) 774-0118, GENA.EGELSTON@WESTIN.COM,
WWW.WESTINSTFRANCIS.COM
SANTA BARBARA
Hilton Santa Barbara
Beachfront Resort
Now Open
The iconic Fess Parker hotel in Santa Barbara
completed a massive renovation and rebranding
in April 2018. The resort was reintroduced
as the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront
Resort, complete with a full refurbishment
of all guest rooms, lobby, public areas, two
ballrooms and extensive meeting spaces. While
the hotel received a new name to match its
new look, the guarantee that Fess Parker’s
legacy will live on will remain unchanged.
MEDIA CONTACT: DANIELLE HERBST,
BALLANTINES PR, (310) 454-3080,
DANIELLE.HERBST@BALLANTINESPR.COM,
WWW.BALLANTINESPR.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: CLAUDIA SCHOU,
HILTON SANTA BARBARA BEACHFRONT RESORT,
(805) 884-8522, CLAUDIA.SCHOU@HILTON.COM,
WWW.FESSPARKERSANTABARBARAHOTEL.COM

SONOMA
Historic MacArthur
Place Hotel Launches
Major Renovation
MacArthur Place Hotel & Spa will soon
launch a comprehensive makeover set for
completion by early 2019. The 160-year-
old inn—recently acquired by real estate
and hospitality investment company IMH
Financial Corporation—served originally as a
prestigious vineyard and working ranch, and
now aims to become a five-star boutique hotel.
The property will still feature its stunning
Victorian architecture, set amidst intimate
gardens and meandering pathways, as well
as an upgraded reception area and three new
culinary concepts in partnership with one of
America’s leading chefs and hospitality groups.
Guests will also enjoy luxurious guest rooms
and suites, as well as a new spa and pool area.
The project is scheduled to begin this fall.
MEDIA CONTACT: CHANDLER TAYLOR,
J PUBLIC RELATIONS, (619) 255-7069,
MACARTHURPLACE@JPUBLICRELATIONS.COM,
WWW.JPUBLICRELATIONS.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: JUSTIN BAIN,
MACARTHUR PLACE, (800) 722-1866,
MACARTHURPLACE@JPUBLICRELATIONS.COM,
WWW.MACARTHURPLACE.COM
WEST HOLLYWOOD
West Hollywood Premieres
Hip New Hotel Options
West Hollywood—one of L.A.’s hangouts
for the hip—will dial up the cool factor this
year with new hotel options. Le Montrose
Suite Hotel will reveal its rebrand this
summer to Montrose West Hollywood,
alongside a renovation that aims to bring an
“upscale urban vibe” to the hotel and a nod
to the music industry, past and present. This
complete renovation to the rooms, meeting
space, exterior and dining options includes
eclectic furniture, lighting and art pieces
that provide a memorable, distinctive design
with residential scale. The Chamberlain West
Hollywood’s complete redesign and signature
“New American” restaurant also comes online
this summer, with a new look reflective of
old Hollywood glamour that is created to
offer the perfect retreat for A-listers. The new
lobby and suites will feature monochromatic
tones, curated art pieces, and luxe velvet and
leather furniture. Over the course of 2018,
The Jeremy West Hollywood will transform
into the 1 West Hollywood, becoming the
fourth property in the award-winning eco-
conscious luxury sustainable brand created
by Starwood Capital. By the end of 2018,
1 West Hollywood—which remains open
throughout the update—will join sister hotels
in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Miami Beach.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: JACQUELINE CENTENO,
VISIT WEST HOLLYWOOD, (310) 289-2525,
JACKIE@VISITWESTHOLLYWOOD.COM,
WWW.VISITWESTHOLLYWOOD.COM
CULINARY
ALAMEDA
Admiral Maltings
Brews Up New Pub
Admiral Maltings, California’s first small
batch barley floor-malting facility to open
since Prohibition, recently debuted a pub
at their 20,000-square-foot facility, which
harkens back to the days when malt houses
sourced local barley for regional breweries
and distilleries. The Rake, an on-site pub
overlooking the malt production, lets beer
aficionados watch the malting process
while enjoying beers made from the malt
produced on-site. The Rake serves 20 beers
on draft and two cask-conditioned ales,
all accompanied with rustic, comfort-
driven pub food. While enjoying the fare,
guests can take in the historic building’s
original Douglas Fir timber ceiling beams
and bar made from local railway tracks
from the Transcontinental Railroad.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: JESSE P. CUTLER, JP CUTLER
MEDIA, (510) 338-0881, JESSE@JPCUTLERMEDIA.COM,
HTTP://ADMIRALMALTINGS.COM
7
BENICIA
Bella Siena Restaurant
Debuts in Benicia
Bella Siena, an Italian-American eatery with
Napa Valley roots, will open in Benicia this
summer. Located in the historic Tannery
Building near the foot of First Street, the
fine dining restaurant, bar and patio offer
a spectacular view of the scenic Carquinez
Strait. Owner Yilmaz Kurt, who worked for
15 years in his family’s Napa Valley restaurant,
teamed up with his co-owner wife, Liz Kurt,
to open their own restaurant. The spacious
eatery focuses on carefully prepared, locally
sourced food and great service. The seasonal
menu merges classic Italian and innovative
Californian cuisine, including fresh salads,
savory pastas, hearty meat and seafood
entrees, and inventive daily specials. The
establishment also features a full bar, 35 tables
inside and 20 tables on the large patio.
MEDIA CONTACT: JACK WOLF, WOLF COMMUNICATIONS,
(707) 575-4415, JACK@PRWOLF.COM, WWW.PRWOLF.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: LIZ KURT, BELLA SIENA,
(707) 373-8027, LIZZY.KURT@YAHOO.COM,
WWW.BELLASIENARESTAURANT.COM
BURBANK
Castaway Restaurant
Now Open in Burbank
Castaway, an exciting new 12,500-square-foot
restaurant and special event property perched
atop a hill in the heart of Burbank, opened in
early May. With an award-winning team of
chefs, designers and hospitality veterans leading
the charge, every aspect of the restaurant is
set to be new, bold and stunning. With an
emphasis on sourcing the best ingredients
from the world’s most skilled farmers and
suppliers, the culinary team at Castaway has
created a seasonally-inspired, steak-forward
menu offering interesting cuts of meat, a
raw bar, vegetable-centric sides and build-
it-yourself charcuterie boards. At the helm
is Chef Perry Pollaci, whose previous stints
include the seminal Patina Restaurant Group-
owned Walt Disney Concert Hall as well as
The Royce at the iconic Langham Huntington
Hotel in Pasadena. Chef Pollaci will be
found nightly at the highly coveted Chef’s
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
8 VISIT CALIFORNIA
Table, a 10-top set up that can accommodate
groups small and large in a community
table style and gives diners a behind-the-
scenes glimpse into the Castaway world.
MEDIA CONTACT: ROBIN FAULK, VISIT BURBANK,
(818) 693-6478, ROBINFAULK@ATT.NET,
WWW.VISITBURBANK.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: CASTAWAY BURBANK,
(818) 848-6691, CASTAWAYBURBANK@SRCMAIL.COM,
WWW.CASTAWAYBURBANK.COM
CALISTOGA
New Lovina Restaurant
Inspired by Local Pioneer
Inspired by local pioneers, the Lovina
restaurant just opened in the former Calistoga
Kitchen space. Located on land that once
featured the home of Lovina Graves Cyrus and
John Cyrus, Calistoga pioneers who survived
the infamous Donner Pass in 1846, the eatery
serves chef-driven, seasonal Californian
cuisine. The owners, a group of friends who
formed the 28 Bullets, LLC, heard tales of
Lovina’s life during a visit to the Sharpsteen
museum. According to local lore, John Cyrus’
dogs cornered the “Huge Bear of Calistoga,”
a.k.a. Hog Killer, who climbed up a walnut
tree. Since the men were too heavy to climb
the outer limbs of the tree, Lovina climbed
and shot the bear 28 times before it fell from
the tree. Upon descending, she was rumored
to say, “It would take more than 28 bullets to
take me down.” The restaurant’s owners toast
the legend with the name of their partnership,
drawing upon the area’s rustic roots to offer a
warm, casual atmosphere without pretension.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: KAITLIN JONES, 28 BULLETS,
LLC, (707) 942-6500, KAITLIN@CALISTOGAKITCHEN.COM,
WWW.LOVINACALISTOGA.COM
CARLSBAD
Windmill Food Hall
Coming Soon to Carlsbad
Carlsbad’s iconic and historic windmill
building will transform this summer into
a food hall complete with 11 restaurant
concepts, a full bar and activities for the whole
family. The latest brainchild from Carlsbad
restaurant entrepreneur James Markham,
who developed national chains like Pieology,
Project Pie and MOD Pizza, Windmill Food
WHAT’S NEW IN CALIFORNIA SUMMER 2018
Hall boasts 12,000 square feet of space which
will include his own concepts, like all-day
breakfast eatery Crackheads, as well as up-
and-coming, locally-born restaurants that
Markham wants to help transition up from
farmers markets and food trucks. To keep
the venue family-oriented, the food hall will
offer children’s games like Skee-Ball, a vintage
Pac-Man video game, Ping-Pong, Jenga,
and other hands-on games and play items.
MEDIA CONTACT: LAUREN WEIL,
WAGSTAFF WORLDWIDE, (323) 871-1151,
LWEIL@WAGSTAFFWORLDWIDE.COM,
WWW.VISITCARLSBAD.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: SAM ROSS, VISIT CARLSBAD,
(760) 434-6093, INFO@VISITCARLSBAD.COM,
WWW.VISITCARLSBAD.COM
GILROY
New Beer Businesses
Brewing in Downtown
Gilroy
Gilroy, long known as the “Garlic Capital of
the World,” will soon become a haven for beer
lovers. Downtown Gilroy, already home to
charming antique stores, historic restaurants,
and of course, garlic shops—will soon feature
new breweries on tap. Bartenders Union
opened in late 2017, followed by Golden State
Brew & Grill in early 2018. Two more, the
Promised Land Brewing Company and Lonely
Oak Brew Pub and Pizzeria, will open this
summer. This bounty of new beer options,
combined with several renowned and authentic
Mexican restaurants, give visitors new reasons
to visit the famous agricultural region.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: JANE HOWARD,
GILROY WELCOME CENTER, (408) 842-6436,
DIRECTOR@GILROYWELCOMECENTER.ORG,
WWW.VISITGILROY.COM
HALF MOON BAY
Grab a Pastry and a Coffee
at the New Bar Press
Opened at the end of January, Dan Spangler
and Julia Paige established Bar Press to
provide customers a convenient access to a
fresh meal. With bright orange walls and
places to sit, the vibe of the family-owned
eatery is warm and friendly. Owning three
other food establishments, the Bar Press
combines best of both worlds with fresh
pastries, salads, and sandwiches that are all in
a grab-and-go setting. At the end of the day,
guests can wander next door to Barterra for
a glass of wine and snack on charcuterie and
cheese from the Bar Press to pair on the side.
MEDIA CONTACT: KATIE MCHUGH OR DAN SPANGLER,
(650) 560-8802, WWW.VISITHALFMOONBAY.ORG/CONTACT,
WWW.VISITHALFMOONBAY.ORG
PUBLIC CONTACT: VISIT HALF MOON BAY COASTSIDE,
(650) 726-8380, WWW.VISITHALFMOONBAY.ORG/CONTACT,
WWW.VISITHALFMOONBAY.ORG
HALF MOON BAY
New Wine Tasting Shop
in Half Moon Bay
As a newly established wine tasting shop,
Vinoteca provides delicious, curated wines
from around the world—mostly from small
family-owned wineries, and each with their
own story to tell. The owners of Vinoteca have
a passion for wine and travel that can help their
customers find the perfect wine to drink that
night or for any special occasion. Vinoteca offers
space to host an event that allows seating for
20-25 people (can arrange for more upon
request) and serves wine, cheese, hors
d’oeuvres, or heartier meals for guests.
MEDIA CONTACT: LARIZA CUTLER, VINOTECA,
(650) 560-8954, VINOTECAHMB@GMAIL.COM,
WWW.VINOTECAHMB.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: VINOTECA, (650) 560-8954,
VINOTECAHMB@GMAIL.COM, WWW.VINOTECAHMB.COM
HEALDSBURG
Duke’s Common Debuts in
Downtown Healdsburg
Duke’s Common recently opened in downtown
Healdsburg, offering a menu inspired by global
street food. A collaboration of chef Shane
McAnelly of The Brass Rabbit and Chalkboard
restaurants with the team at Duke’s Spirited
Cocktails, Duke’s Common serves a mix of
snacks, skewers and sandwiches to provide
affordable, fast, creative and satisfying food
that can be enjoyed in its cheerful commissary
or on the go. The drinks menu, which includes
craft cocktails, wine and beer, is a nod to its
neighbor Duke’s Spirited Cocktails—a local
watering hole known for its craft cocktails,
and featuring locally made spirits, beer and
wine, plus a few international brands.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: DUKE’S COMMONS
TEAM, DUKE’S COMMONS, (707) 431-1105,
CHEERS@DUKESCOMMON.COM,
WWW.DUKESCOMMON.COM

LAGUNA BEACH
Pleasure Distillery
Debuting in Laguna Beach
A new hangout with an old-school Laguna
Beach vibe is on its way and should be ready to
roll this summer, after it’s distilled just right.
Pleasure Distillery has found its new home in
North Laguna. It is located in a cottage at 481
North Coast Highway, that is so old that if
carded, would show a birthday dating back more
than 100 years. The space will offer visitors a
lounge with a tasting room in a speakeasy vibe.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: LANA JOHNSON, VISIT LAGUNA
BEACH, (949) 212-1499, LANAJOHNSON@ME.COM,
WWW.VISITLAGUNABEACH.COM
LAGUNA BEACH
Laguna Beach Beer
Company Opening Soon
Brent Reynard and Mike Lombardo have had
their beer recipes produced by several different
breweries on a contract basis over the past two
years—with their most recent partners being a
brewery in Orange County and one in Redding,
Calif.—before their purchase of a facility in
Rancho Santa Margarita. But in May of 2018,
the native sons are coming home. Laguna
Beach Beer Co. (LBBC) is opening a tasting
room, restaurant and brewing facility in the city
that bears the brand’s name. Unlike the more
industrial dwellings of other Orange County
breweries, the brewery will take advantage of
its spacious location in Laguna Canyon, and
offer both indoor and outdoor seating, with a
wood-fired oven as a focal point in the kitchen.
The carefully constructed menu will offer a
variety of items including specialty pizzas and
other light fare developed by Laguna native
chef Peter O’Keefe, featuring local ingredients
and showcasing the complexity of the beers.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: LANA JOHNSON, VISIT LAGUNA
BEACH, (949) 212-1499, LANAJOHNSON@ME.COM,
WWW.VISITLAGUNABEACH.COM
MORRO BAY
Morro Bay Welcomes
Goddess Goods Cafe
Goddess Goods just opened in Morro Bay,
serving organic, fresh-pressed juice, smoothies,
espresso, vegetarian/vegan food and more.
Inspired by the owner’s vision of a local
goddess who’d arrive on a surfboard rather
than a half shell, the café aims to provide
healthy “offerings”—greens, berries and nut
butters—blended to perfection. The owners,
using as many local and organic ingredients
as possible, offer creative items such as Berry
Quinoa Salad, the Green Goddess Sandwich,
a Sun-Dried Almond Burger, Kale Mary and
Beets Me juices, along with fun smoothies
such as Just Peachy and Jolly Green Giant.
MEDIA CONTACT: SUSAN HARTZLER, MENTAL MARKETING,
(818) 585-8641, SHARTZLER@MENTALMARKETING.COM,
WWW.MENTALMARKETING.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: JENNIFER LITTLE, VISIT MORRO BAY,
(805) 225-1570, JLITTLE@MORROBAYCA.GOV,
WWW.MORROBAY.ORG
NAPA
Bouchaine Vineyards
Opening New Tasting
Room
Bouchaine Vineyards, the oldest continuously
operating winery in the Carneros District,
will soon offer a new tasting facility for
visitors. Excitement is building for the new
5,000-square-foot tasting facility with an
expected completion this summer 2018. This
stunning elliptical glass structure will also
include a private events space, a professional
kitchen, offices and an expansive terrace
overlooking the Bouchaine gardens, San
Pablo Bay and San Francisco beyond.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: MONTY SANDER, FULLER
& SANDER COMMUNICATIONS, (707) 253-8503,
MONTY@FULLERANDSANDER.COM,
WWW.BOUCHAINE.COM
OAKHURST
New Vegan Restaurant
Opens Near Yosemite
National Park
The Love Café, Madera County’s first vegan
restaurant, recently opened on Highway 41
in Oakhurst, just south of Yosemite National
Park. Inspired in part by the town’s Love
Ranger and Yoga Bear mural, the café serves
hearty vegan food, along with the traditional
salads. Guests can order plant-based “Pulled
Pork” sandwiches and “Biscuits with
Sausage Gravy.” The restaurant sources 98
percent of its ingredients from local, organic
farms, and uses biodegradable straws and
containers. To be as green as possible, the
owners have created one of the first “zero
9
waste” restaurants in California, composting
and recycling 100 percent of its trash.
MEDIA CONTACT: RHONDA SALISBURY,
VISIT YOSEMITE | MADERA COUNTY, (559) 683-4636,
RHONDA@YOSEMITETHISYEAR.COM,
WWW.YOSEMITETHISYEAR.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: TRICIA LOUISE TRACY, LOVE CAFÉ,
(559) 642-5683, LOVECAFEOAKHURST@GMAIL.COM,
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/LOVECAFEOAKHURST
PENNGROVE
New Farm-to-Table
Eatery Sprouts Up
in Sonoma County
Wind & Rye Kitchen recently took root in
central Sonoma County, offering farm-to-table
fare and cooking classes. Owners Laci and
Travis Sandoval created the eatery, located on
a private farm in Penngrove, with the belief
that few things are more intimate than food,
and that sharing a meal together nourishes the
body and feeds the soul. Serving locally sourced,
seasonally based dishes, the restaurant also
creates custom wedding cakes placed on one-of-
a-kind handmade glass cake stands. To inspire
collaboration and intimacy with the food, the
owners recently hosted programs such as a Date
Night Cooking Class for Two, Charcuterie and
Sausage Making, Nourishing Stocks and Bone
Broths, Nourishing the Family, Fermentation
Series—Kimchi, Cooking with Mushrooms,
and Fish Butchery and Cooking Techniques.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: WIND & RYE KITCHEN
TEAM, WIND & RYE KITCHEN, (510) 459-2709,
LACI@WINDANDRYE.COM, WWW.WINDANDRYE.COM
PISMO BEACH
Giuseppe’s Cucina Italiana
Reopens After Fire
Giuseppe’s Cucina Italiana, a Pismo Beach
staple since 1988 that was destroyed by a fire
in 2016, reopened in March 2018. Owner
Giuseppe DiFronzo rebuilt the landmark
eatery, which still serves up dishes inspired by
his fresh and locally grown DiFronzo Farms
produce. The farm, nestled on 12 acres of fertile
Edna Valley soil, grows everything from figs,
olives and San Marzano tomatoes, to squash,
Hachiya persimmons, Meyer lemons and
five grape varietals that produce Giuseppe’s
own DiFronzo Vineyard brand wines.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: KRISTIN HUEBNER,
PISMO BEACH CONFERENCE & VISITORS BUREAU,
(805) 773-7034, KHUEBNER@PISMOBEACH.ORG,
WWW.CLASSICCALIFORNIA.COM
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
10 VISIT CALIFORNIA
SACRAMENTO
Alaro Craft Brewery
Opening in Sacramento
Alaro Craft Brewery is projected to open its
doors in the heart of Midtown in late May, in
the space previously held by the iconic Rubicon
Brewing Co. The new owners Ray and Annette
Ballestero bring over 30 years of home brewing
experience and are excited to introduce Alaro
Craft Brewery to the Sacramento Craft Beer
community. The name “Alaro” is derived
from the surname Ballestero, dating back to
medieval Spain when one Ramon Ballester
was lord of the castle of Alaro. The craft
brewery will offer a handful of creative food
pairings with just a touch of Spanish flair. The
entire team will bring simple and flavorful
new ideas that include working with small
farmers and producers to get the best local
and organic ingredients possible. In addition
to an interesting selection of seasonal releases,
IPAs, pale ales, stouts and pilsners, Alaro will
offer a selection of Spanish wine and Sangria
along with other house-made beverages.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: WENDY RUSSELL,
ALARO BREWING COMPANY, (916) 798-9009,
WENDY@ALAROBREWING.COM,
WWW.ALAROBREWING.COM
SAN LUIS OBISPO
Central Coast
Brewing Co. Expands
Central Coast Brewing Co., a local crafter
of small-batch beers, just opened its second,
larger location in San Luis Obispo. The new
space features a bar, a tasting and growler
refill area for its one-of-a-kind ales and lagers,
and a patio. The expansion makes room for
a full barrel program, with cognac and rum
barrel-aged beers that could include offerings
like a Caribbean-inspired Rumrunner stout.
It also allows the team to brew a lot more
of their award-winning beers, which guests
can pair with pub food, including fresh pies
from the pizza oven as well as sliders, chicken
chili verde tacos, parmesan fries and salads.
MEDIA CONTACT: MOLLY KERN, SAN LUIS OBISPO
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, (805) 786-2763,
MOLLY@SLOCHAMBER.ORG,
WWW.SANLUISOBISPOVACATIONS.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: DUSTY COLYER-WORTH, SAN LUIS
OBISPO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE—VISITOR CENTER,
(805) 781-2777, VISITORCENTER@SLOCHAMBER.ORG,
WWW.SANLUISOBISPOVACATIONS.COM
WHAT’S NEW IN CALIFORNIA SUMMER 2018
SAN LUIS OBISPO
Central Coast Meat
Market Eatery Opens
The Central Coast Meat Market recently opened
in Pismo Beach, providing a family friendly
dining destination for carnivores looking for
Texas-style barbecue with a local twist. The
restaurant, born from the owners’ passion for
Texas style barbecue, features oak smoke flavor
infused into briskets, hot links, pulled pork,
turkey and ribs. These premium, ethically
raised meats can be savored alone or placed
on a salad or sandwich. The eatery uses locally
sourced vegetables where possible and offers
scratch-made sides such as Pit Beans, Picnic
Potato, Cabbage Slaw and Mac ‘N Cheese.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: KRISTIN HUEBNER,
PISMO BEACH CONFERENCE & VISITORS BUREAU,
(805) 773-7034, KHUEBNER@PISMOBEACH.ORG,
WWW.CLASSICCALIFORNIA.COM
SANTA BARBARA
New Night Lizard
Brewing Co. Champions
the Environment
Santa Barbara’s booming craft brew scene
introduces the newest kid on the block this
summer: Night Lizard Brewing Company,
a family project inspired by a passion for the
outdoors and great beer. In addition to focusing
on serving tasty brews, its ethos is all about
giving back to the community and protecting
the environment. The owners named each
brew after a local endangered species—from
the Bush Mallow Honey Blonde, named after
a Channel Islands flower, to the Torrey pine-
inspired Torreyana IPA. They also showcase
labels created by local artists. The team donates
10 percent of all proceeds to conservation
efforts along California’s Central Coast.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: KARNA HUGHES,
VISIT SANTA BARBARA, (805) 966-9222,
KARNA@SANTABARBARACA.COM,
WWW.SANTABARBARACA.COM
SANTA CRUZ
New Venue Toasts Local
History with Cemetery-
Themed Cocktail
Abbott Square Market, a creative new venue
combining artisan food, craft beer and
cocktails, entertainment, and family-friendly
activities, just debuted in downtown Santa
Cruz. Supported by the Santa Cruz Museum
of Art & History (MAH), the establishment
connects the present and the past with a
creative cocktail that pays homage to the
nearby Evergreen Cemetery, where early
pioneers, Civil War veterans, and Chinese
immigrants were laid to rest. Pairing well
with the forested hillsides, historic gravesites
and heritage trees, the Front & Cooper bar
at Abbott Square now features the Evergreen
Cocktail program. Created by mixologist Kate
Gerwin, the menu features creatively named
libations using local ingredients—including
Mutari chocolate. Part of the proceeds
from each of these “spirited” beverages
benefits the revitalization of the cemetery.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: CHRISTINA GLYNN,
VISIT SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, (831) 427-4405,
CGLYNN@SANTACRUZ.ORG, WWW.VISITSANTACRUZ.ORG
SANTA MONICA
The Gables Restaurant
Opens Downtown
The Gables, Santa Monica’s newest all-
day neighborhood restaurant, just debuted
downtown on Wilshire between Third and
Fourth Streets. The Gables emphasizes a
market-driven menu, with freshly baked
goods prepared on-site. The name pays
homage to the original Gables in Santa
Monica, which was the seaside city’s first
beach club that opened in 1926. The Gables
“2.0” team includes consulting chef and
former Superba and Beacon veteran Vicki
Fan Matsusaka, Daniel Boulud’s former
restaurant group manager Juan Ramirez, and
first-time restaurant owner Kevin Lazan.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: LAUREN SALISBURY,
SANTA MONICA TRAVEL & TOURISM, (310) 319-6263,
LSALISBURY@SANTAMONICA.COM,
WWW.SANTAMONICA.COM
SANTA MONICA
Little Prince Pops
Up on Main Street
Little Prince, Santa Monica’s new weekend-
only brunch pop-up, just debuted on Main
Street. Chef Ari Taymor, formerly of Alma
at the Standard, lets his phenomenal brunch
skills shine at this standalone concept for
weekend revelers. Serving elevated breakfast
favorites with a modern twist, the menu

includes soft scrambled eggs, smoked
salmon hash, chia seed pudding with sorrel,
and Taymor’s buzzed-about patty melt.
Open Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m.
to 4 p.m., Little Prince also serves all-day
cocktails and a selection of natural wines.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: LAUREN SALISBURY,
SANTA MONICA TRAVEL & TOURISM, (310) 319-6263,
LSALISBURY@SANTAMONICA.COM,
WWW.SANTAMONICA.COM
SANTA MONICA
Mel’s Drive-In Premiers
in Santa Monica
Santa Monica welcomed California diner-
inspired Mel’s Drive-In this spring. The
owners opened the space in the former 1959
Penguin coffee house, restoring the location on
Lincoln Boulevard to its Googie building glory,
including the iconic penguin sign. Guests
will find 24/7 service amidst classic 1950s
Americana ambiance including high ceilings,
huge windows and sparkling terrazzo floors.
The new Mel’s features a wide array of burgers,
sandwiches, hot plates, salads, breakfast and
desserts along with a juice bar, craft beers on
tap, and phone charging stations at every table.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: LAUREN SALISBURY,
SANTA MONICA TRAVEL & TOURISM, (310) 319-6263,
LSALISBURY@SANTAMONICA.COM,
WWW.SANTAMONICA.COM
SANTA MONICA
Sweet Rose
Creamery Expands
Santa Monica’s celebrated, home-grown Sweet
Rose Creamery opened a sixth location on
March 14, 2018 along Main Street—home to
a variety of boutique restaurants and shops.
Families, visitors and friends can stroll over
from the beach, pier or nearby Sunday Farmers’
Market to enjoy Sweet Rose’s classic and
seasonal scoops, sundaes, milkshakes and more.
At 650 square feet, this cozy, neighborhood ice
cream parlor features a rustic simplicity, with
reclaimed wood walls with black chalkboards
announcing new monthly flavors. Sweet
Rose Creamery, one of the few small-batch
ice cream shops that truly makes everything
from scratch right down to its dairy base,
crafts their frozen desserts daily using organic
dairy products and farmers market produce.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: LAUREN SALISBURY,
SANTA MONICA TRAVEL & TOURISM, (310) 319-6263,
LSALISBURY@SANTAMONICA.COM,
WWW.SANTAMONICA.COM
SANTA ROSA
Farm to Fork Restaurant
Takes Root in Santa Rosa
Perch + Plow recently debuted in downtown
Santa Rosa, serving farm-to-table international
small plates and classic cocktails with a
modern twist. Overlooking Santa Rosa’s
historic, recently remodeled downtown
square, Perch + Plow features an intriguing
variety of small bites, including Roasted
Brussel Sprouts, Charred Cauliflower, Crispy
Pork Belly, Grilled Octopus, Fish Stew and
Buttermilk Fried Calamari. Large plates
include a house burger; a steak, turkey or
fried chicken sandwich; and seared halibut.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: PERCH + PLOW TEAM,
PERCH + PLOW, (707) 541-6896,
INFO@PERCHANDPLOW.COM,
WWW.PERCHANDPLOW.COM
SONOMA
Jean Edwards Cellars
Now Pouring in Sonoma
Jean Edwards Cellars just unveiled its Sonoma
tasting room, pouring highly rated wines from
some of northern California’s most notable
vineyards. Located on Vine Alley, just off
the historic downtown plaza in the town of
Sonoma, the tasting room offers Cabernet
Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc,
Chardonnay and Cuvee blends. Founded
in 2004, Jean Edwards Cellars was selected
by Wine Spectator Magazine as “one of
twenty new cabernet producers to watch.”
MEDIA CONTACT: SALES OFFICE,
JEAN EDWARDS CELLARS, (973) 402-8524,
WINE@JEANEADWARDSCELLARS.COM,
WWW.JEANEDWARDSCELLARS.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: TASTING ROOM,
JEAN EDWARDS CELLARS, (707) 935-5952,
TASTINGROOM@JEANEDWARDSCELLARS.COM,
WWW.JEANEDWARDSCELLARS.COM
SONOMA
Cochon Wine Tasting Bar
Opens Downtown
Cochon Tasting Bar recently debuted near
Sonoma’s historic downtown Plaza, offering
wines by the flight or glass. Cochon, named
after the French word for hog, crafts small
production California Rhone wines that are
raised exclusively in larger, uniquely shaped
11
French oak barrels known as hogsheads. This
creates rounder, softer textured, and more
elegant wines for guests to enjoy. Cochon Wine
and Odisea Wine Company, a partnership
between longtime wine industry friends
Adam Webb and Mike Kuenz, focus on
wines from the Northern Iberian Peninsula
and Southern France’s Rhone Valley.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: TASTING ROOM MANAGER,
COCHON TASTING BAR, (707) 934-8157,
BIGVINO@ODISEAWINECO.COM,
WWW.COCHONWINES.COM
SONOMA
New Superfood Bar
Launches in Sonoma
Superfood bar El Huerto of Sonoma recently
opened, emphasizing healthy food based on
the belief that everyone should treat their
body like a temple. The family-run superfood
bar strives to serve clean and simple local
food, including a variety of “glow bowls,”
such as the Acai Bowl (acai, banana, mango
and coconut water topped with seasonal
fruit, shredded coconut, and house granola)
and the Sunrise Bowl (mango, banana,
avocado, dates, lemon and almond milk,
topped with granola, strawberries, shredded
coconut and banana). The menu also includes
toasts like the Protein Toast (almond butter,
banana, chocolate chunks and chia seeds)
and the Avocado Toast (Avocado, cotija
cheese, lime and optional cayenne pepper),
as well as a variety of fresh pressed juices.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: EL HUERTO TEAM,
EL HUERTO OF SONOMA, (415) 225-6976,
ELHUERTOHEALTHYSNACKS@GMAIL.COM,
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ELHUERTOOFSONOMA
WINDSOR
Grand Cru Custom
Crush Facility Adds
Tasting Rooms
The Grand Cru Custom Crush facility in
Windsor just debuted new, elegantly appointed
tasting rooms on-site, where guests can sample
wines from a specific winery or try the varied
“Vintner’s Selection” experience. Grand Cru
Custom Crush, a co-op wine production
business that provides winemaking services to
independent winemakers and small producers,
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
12 VISIT CALIFORNIA
offers a variety of small tanks, crush equipment,
barrel rooms and tasting facilities. The Vintner’s
Selection tasting includes a variety of wines
from the dozen boutique winemakers who use
the Grand Cru facilities. Guests looking for
a more immersive experience can take tours
of the state-of-the-art production facility.
MEDIA CONTACT: GRAND CRU CUSTOM CRUSH
TEAM, GRAND CRU CUSTOM CRUSH, (707) 687-0909,
HOSPITALITY@GRANDCRUCUSTOMCRUSH.COM,
WWW.GRANDCRUCUSTOMCRUSH.COM
WINDSOR
New Beer Café
Brews in Windsor
Barley & Bine Beer Café just launched onto
central Sonoma County’s craft brew scene.
Featuring 38 taps, Barley & Bine offers a
rotating lineup of craft beer, including limited
and hard-to-find brews in a variety of styles
and flavors. They also serve cider, and three to
four wine options. The seasonally changing
menu features fresh, local ingredients in items
like grilled sandwiches, flatbread pizzas, a
cheese plate and nachos. The family-friendly
café includes games and a patio for relaxing.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: JEFF REITZ AND LINDSAY
OSBORNE, BARLEY & BINE BEER CAFÉ, (707) 657-7774,
INFO@BARLEYBINEBEERCAFE.COM,
WWW.BARLEYBINEBEERCAFE.COM
WINDSOR
New Dessert Café
Sweetens Windsor’s
Culinary Offerings
Flavor Fiesta just opened in Windsor,
serving primarily Mexican desserts as
well as other international sweet treats,
including American, Asian and other Latin
American delights. Serving the best Boba
tea, coffee and ice cream in the area, the
new café also offers aqua fresca, shaved ice,
milk tea, donuts, mangonada, raspados,
fresh juice, protein smoothies and more.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: MANAGER, FLAVOR FIESTA,
(707) 517-0096, FLAVORFIESTA1123@GMAIL.COM,
WWW.WINDSORBOBA.COM
WHAT’S NEW IN CALIFORNIA SUMMER 2018
ARTS &
ENTERTAINMENT
LANCASTER
Lancaster Welcomes the
Summer Concert Series
The City of Lancaster—located in Los Angeles
County—will offer the Summer Concert Series
again beginning in June 2018. Held on the BeX
Bandstand stage, this series offers visitors the
chance to experience remarkable headliners and
many talented bands performing throughout
the summer on Thursday evenings, beginning
through mid-September. The Summer Concert
Series is held in conjunction with the BLVD
Market, which allows the audience to shop and
eat while they are entertained by crowd favorites.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: ANGELA CLAYBORNE,
DESTINATION LANCASTER, (661) 723-6074,
ACLAYBORNE@CITYOFLANCASTERCA.ORG,
WWW.CITYOFLANCASTERCA.ORG
OAKLAND
Oakland Marriott City
Center Unveils Mural
Oakland Marriott City Center continues its
commitment to the community with its latest
mural installment on the hotel’s exterior walls.
This newest mural, part of Visit Oakland’s
Public Mural Grant Program, celebrates the
many layers that embody the city of Oakland:
diversity, passion, entrepreneurs, culture, and
locals with pride. Developed in partnership
with Dragon School, which trains adults and
kids to create murals to make the community
more interesting and diverse through art,
the “Year of the Dog” mural was developed
under the tutelage of guest artist The Kal
while he worked on an adjacent wall.
MEDIA CONTACT: GERALDINE DAGEN,
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL, (954) 655-9554,
GERALDINE.DAGEN@MARRIOTT.COM,
WWW.MARRIOTT.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: JEFF MARTIN, OAKLAND
MARRIOTT CITY CENTER, (510) 466-6485,
JEFFREY.E.MARTIN@MARRIOTT.COM,
WWW.MARRIOTT.COM/OAKDT
PALM SPRINGS
Agua Caliente Cultural
Center Breaks Ground
The new Agua Caliente Cultural Center,
scheduled to break ground May 11 in Palm
Springs, will feature a cultural museum, spa
and bathhouse that celebrates the history of
the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indian
Tribe’s ancient hot mineral spring. Design
for the center, which will also include a
gathering plaza, gardens and an Oasis Trail,
drew inspiration from traditions such as
basket weaving and pottery making as well
as elements found in nature around Palm
Springs and the California desert. The spa
includes 40,000 square feet of space to enjoy
the healing waters, which are estimated to be
over 12,000 years old and contain a mineral
make-up not found anywhere else in the world.
The center sits on the corner of Tahquitz
Canyon Way and Indian Canyon Drive.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: RANDY GARNER,
VISIT PALM SPRINGS, (503) 490-5757,
RGARNER@VISITPALMSPRINGS.COM,
WWW.VISITPALMSPRINGS.COM
SACRAMENTO
Sacramento’s New DOCO
Continues to Grow
Redevelopment is happening throughout
Sacramento, and nowhere is this more
apparent than in the Downtown Commons,
nicknamed DOCO. This 3-acre plaza featuring
cinemas, innovative restaurants including
the new Punchbowl Social and Sacramento
favorite Estelle’s Patisserie, boutiques, the
new 250-room Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, and
a place for people to enjoy outdoor concerts,
markets and activities. DOCO is adjacent to
Sacramento’s new Golden 1 Center arena, and
new eateries and stores continue to open.
MEDIA CONTACT: HEIDI BALDWIN DOAK, CANDRPR.COM,
(310) 664-8838, HEIDI@CANDRPR.COM,
WWW.DOCOSACRAMENTO.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: KARI MISKIT, VISIT SACRAMENTO,
(916) 808-1422, KMISKIT@CITYOFSACRAMENTO.ORG,
WWW.VISITSACRAMENTO.COM

SAN DIEGO
New Man of War
Exhibit Drops Anchor
at Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum of San Diego, home
to one of the world’s finest collections of
historic vessels—from steam to submarine—
will open its latest exhibit, “Man-of-War:
Adventures Aboard a Fighting Ship,” on
May 25, 2018. Staged aboard His Majesty’s
sixth-rate British Royal Navy frigate, HMS
Surprise, the new exhibit transports visitors
back in time 200 years to the wooden world
of the fighting sailing ship. This interactive
exhibit encourages visitors of all ages to learn
what it was like to live as a cabin boy, marine,
sailor, midshipman, surgeon and captain on
a “man-of-war” from the age of sail. The new
exhibit, included with general admission, also
lets guests walk the length of her gun deck,
sit in the captain’s cabin, visit the surgeon’s
berth and stand at the helm, as well as see
and hear the sights and sounds of dramatic
battles at sea, with Surprise’s fearsome guns.
The exhibit runs through the end of 2018.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: THERESA SMULLEN, MARITIME
MUSEUM OF SAN DIEGO, (619) 234-9153 EXT. 123,
TSMULLEN@SDMARITIME.ORG, WWW.SDMARITIME.ORG
SAN DIEGO
Avocado-Inspired
Pop-Up Museum Bears
Fruit in San Diego
As California Avocado season peaks this
summer, San Diego will host an immersive
pop-up museum experience celebrating
one of everyone’s favorite fruits. Created by
Boom Unlimited, a creative agency founded
by sisters Anne Buehner & Mary Carr,
The CADO goes beyond guacamole and
examines the many facets of local California
Avocados—from their history to nutritional
benefits—by way of large-scale, room-sized
interactive art installations that encourage
social sharing. San Diego County cultivates
40 percent of all avocados grown in California,
making it the nation’s leading producer. The
CADO, sponsored by the California Avocado
Commission, aims to delight all five senses
as ticket holders make their way through a
structure, creatively constructed entirely out
of shipping containers, fully reimagined to
tell the story of the famous fruit from seed to
skin. Popping-up for a limited three-month
engagement from June to August 2018,
The CADO tickets are on sale now.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: SARAH WEINBERG-SCALO,
SAN DIEGO TOURISM AUTHORITY, (619) 557-2838,
SWEINBERG@SANDIEGO.ORG, WWW.SANDIEGO.ORG
SAN DIEGO
Wind & Water
Exhibit Sails into
Maritime Museum
“Wind & Water: Sailing in San Diego”
exhibit recently cruised into the Maritime
Museum, home to one of the world’s finest
collections of historic vessels, from sail to steam
to submarine. This rare new photographic
collection from friends Bobby Grieser and
Mark Albertazzi includes historic, classic
and wooden yachts racing and sailing in San
Diego. The exhibit encompasses an impressive
body of work to amaze and inspire visitors
about sailing in San Diego Bay, from the
America’s Cup to historic Museum vessels
and traditional wooden boats that sailed for
recreation on the waterfront. The exhibit,
included with general admission, can be found
in the Star of India Hold Gallery, the world’s
oldest active sailing ship and one of 10 historic
vessels guests can explore at the museum.
The show runs through the end of 2018.
MEDIA CONTACT: THERESA SMULLEN,
MARITIME MUSEUM OF SAN DIEGO, (619) 234-9153,
TSMULLEN@SDMARITIME.ORG, WWW.SDMARITIME.ORG
PUBLIC CONTACT: GENER AUSTRIA,
MARITIME MUSEUM OF SAN DIEGO, (619) 234-9153,
GAUSTRIA@SDMARITIME.ORG, WWW.SDMARITIME.ORG
SANTA BARBARA
Santa Barbara Museum
of Natural History
Announces Renovation
The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural
History, which celebrated its centennial in
2016, recently launched a series of exciting
renovations. Starting with landscape and
pathway improvements, the project will include
updates to existing educational exhibits—
including enhancements to its Mammal Hall
13
and Bird Hall (anticipated to re-open June
2). A new Santa Barbara Gallery exhibit will
also open to showcase science and nature
in the region. Butterfly Pavilion, slated
to open in July, will feature a permanent
exhibit filled with hundreds of vibrant free-
flying butterflies. Outdoor education and
exploration will take place in the museum’s
upgraded Backyard and Nature Clubhouse.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: KARNA HUGHES,
VISIT SANTA BARBARA, (805) 966-9222,
KARNA@SANTABARBARACA.COM,
WWW.SANTABARBARACA.COM
SANTA CRUZ
Santa Cruz Welcomes
New Whale-Themed
Public Art Installation
A brand-new art installation outside of the
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Exploration Center pays homage to this 276-
mile federally protected marine area. The
new sculpture, a collaboration between the
Exploration Center, the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration, and local artist
Robert Seals, features a dynamic formation
of five metal humpback whales. Dusting the
sheet steel material of the whales in a blue
powder coating, Seals designed the finish to
reflect the sun in such a way that the whales
appear to be covered in water droplets. In
addition to his artistry, Seals achieved success
with his revolutionary portable stainless-steel
container, the Kleen Kanteen. The Monterey
Bay National Marine Sanctuary stretches
from Marin to Cambria in San Luis Obispo
County, and is the country’s second largest
marine sanctuary. Those inspired to enter the
Exploration Center, featuring free admission,
will find interactive exhibits and displays.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: CHRISTINA GLYNN,
VISIT SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, (831) 427-4405,
CGLYNN@SANTACRUZ.ORG,
WWW.VISITSANTACRUZ.ORG
SANTA ROSA
SOFA Art District Unveils
Blasted Art Gallery
The Blasted Art Gallery, the newest venue
for inventive art in the vibrant SOFA (South
A Street Art District) in Santa Rosa, features
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
14 VISIT CALIFORNIA
the work of local artists and owners Bill Shelley
and Chris Beards. Shelley, a mixed-media
artist, founded and directed FrontBurner Art
Gallery in Windsor for two years. Mixed-media
sculptor Beards created the first Blasted pop-
up art gallery for SOFA’s 2015 Winter Blast
festival and co-hosted a second pop-up show
in 2016. SOFA, the neighborhood where
South A Street meets Sebastopol Avenue in
downtown Santa Rosa, includes approximately
30 artist studios, the largest concentration
of studios in Sonoma County, as well as
several galleries and other businesses.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: BILL SHELLEY AND
CHRIS BEARDS, BLASTED ART GALLERY,
(707) 888-1026, BLASTEDARTGALLERY@GMAIL.COM,
WWW.BLASTEDARTGALLERY.COM
SARATOGA
Public Tea Demonstrations
Return to Hakone Estate
and Gardens
Hakone Estate and Gardens, one of the oldest
Japanese gardens in the U.S., recently brought
back the Public Tea Ceremony program series,
which runs every third Sunday each month
through Nov. 18, 2018. Cost is $7 plus the
price of admission and includes a one-hour
authentic ceremony taught by a Japanese Tea
Master in traditional garb (seatings at noon,
1 p.m. or 2 p.m.). Conducted in the Cultural
Exchange Center and designed in the fashion
of an authentic Kyoto tea merchant’s shop,
the demonstration features the Omotesenke
style of tea preparation and serving, one of the
traditional methods used in Japan for centuries.
Tickets can be purchased at the Gift Shop on
the day of the demonstration. Hakone also
offers a wide variety of docent-led tours and
educational classes, from Zen meditation,
karate and Tai Chi to watercolor painting.
MEDIA CONTACT: JEANNE SULLIVAN, SULLIVANSAYS,
(650) 215-8156, JEANNE@SULLIVANSAYS.COM,
WWW.SULLIVANSAYS.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: GIFT SHOP, HAKONE ESTATE AND
GARDENS, (408) 741-4994, GIFTSHOP@HAKONE.COM,
WWW.HAKONE.COM
WHAT’S NEW IN CALIFORNIA SUMMER 2018
FAMILY FUN
ANAHEIM
First-Ever Pixar
Fest Comes to the
Disneyland Resort
Pixar Fest, the biggest Pixar celebration
ever to come to Disney Parks, brings guests
together to celebrate friendship and beyond.
During this limited time event running
April 13–Sept. 3, stories from Pixar Animation
Studios will come to life in new ways with
characters and experiences from films such
as Disney Pixar’s “Toy Story,” “Monsters,
Inc.,” “Finding Nemo” and “Up.” Guests will
join the fun as they experience “Together
Forever—A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular,” a
new fireworks show; the return of “Paint the
Night” parade—moving to Disney California
Park with fresh new Pixar surprises; the return
of “Pixar Play Parade” performing for the first
time at Disneyland Park, and even more Pixar
characters. Adding to the celebration are new
décor, atmosphere entertainment, creatively
themed food and beverage, and merchandise.
MEDIA CONTACT: KELSEY LYNCH, DISNEYLAND RESORT,
(714) 781-4500, KELSEY.M.LYNCH@DISNEY.COM,
WWW.DISNEYLAND.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: WALT DISNEY TRAVEL
COMPANY, DISNEYLAND RESORT, (714) 520-5050,
HTTPS://DISNEYLAND.DISNEY.GO.COM/HELP/EMAIL,
WWW.DISNEYLAND.COM
ANAHEIM
Pixar Pier Opens
June 23, 2018 at Disney
California Adventure Park
The wonderful worlds of Pixar will get a
new home at Disney California Adventure
Park when Pixar Pier opens June 23, 2018,
transforming the area that is now Paradise
Pier with the thrilling, new Incredicoaster,
four new imaginative neighborhoods,
and the new Lamplight Lounge, plus
exciting entertainment, themed food and
beverage, and merchandise. Guests will
experience Pixar stories and characters
in incredible new ways on this seaside
waterfront at the Disneyland Resort.
MEDIA CONTACT: KELSEY LYNCH, DISNEYLAND
RESORT, (714) 781-4500, KELSEY.M.LYNCH@DISNEY.COM,
WWW.DISNEYLAND.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: WALT DISNEY TRAVEL
COMPANY, DISNEYLAND RESORT, (714) 520-5050,
HTTPS://DISNEYLAND.DISNEY.GO.COM/HELP/EMAIL,
WWW.DISNEYLAND.COM
ANAHEIM
Disneyland Resort
Reimagines Downtown
Disney District in 2018
The Downtown Disney District at the
Disneyland Resort is continuing its
ambitious, promenade-wide transformation
in 2018. Multiple new venues and significant
refurbishments to marquee dining and retail
locations will be completed throughout the
year while Downtown Disney remains open
to guests. The result will be a fresh, one-of-a-
kind Disney experience, immersing guests by
day and night in the greatest mix of family-
friendly dining, shopping and entertainment.
A few new additions to Downtown Disney
include Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire by
ILMxLAB and The VOID, Splitsville Luxury
Lanes and Disney Home. Additional exciting
experiences slated to open in 2018 include
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer, Ballast Point
and a reimagined World of Disney store.
MEDIA CONTACT: KELSEY LYNCH, DISNEYLAND RESORT,
(714) 781-4500, KELSEY.M.LYNCH@DISNEY.COM,
WWW.DISNEYLAND.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: WALT DISNEY TRAVEL
COMPANY, DISNEYLAND RESORT, (714) 520-5050,
HTTPS://DISNEYLAND.DISNEY.GO.COM/HELP/EMAIL,
WWW.DISNEYLAND.COM
CARLSBAD
Two New Exhibits
Splashes into LEGOLAND’s
SEA LIFE Aquarium
SEA LIFE® Aquarium at LEGOLAND
opened two new exhibits in March: “Sea at
Night” and “Shark Mission.” Both exhibits
allow guests to learn about marine life in a
fun and interactive way. Sea at Night invites

guests to jump, leap and “splash” into
simulated bioluminescent waves that react to
their footsteps. The reaction created by the
guests’ movements demonstrates the effect
of a glowing tide, like ones often seen along
the Pacific coastline. Shark Mission lets kids
come face to fin with six different species of
sharks and rays on three giant touch screens.
Young explorers can learn about anatomy,
conservation and other cool facts through
engaging activities and games. Guests can
also hold a shark’s tooth, learn about shark
skin and eggs, and step into a shark cage.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: SARAH WEINBERG-SCALO,
SAN DIEGO TOURISM AUTHORITY, (619) 557-2838,
SWEINBERG@SANDIEGO.ORG, WWW.SANDIEGO.ORG
CONCORD
Six Flags Hurricane
Harbor Blows into
Concord
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor—formerly
known as Waterworld Concord—opened
for the season on May 5 with the debut of an
exciting new attraction. Northern California’s
biggest and most thrilling waterpark unveiled
Slashwater Island, a colossal water play
area featuring more than 100 interactive
sprayers, water jets and geysers. As part
of the rebrand, the park also underwent
extensive theming and upgrades throughout
the 30-acre property, including a bold, new
entrance and newly renovated dining areas.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: HANNAH BROWN, SIX FLAGS
THEME PARK, (925) 609-1364, HBROWN@SFTP.COM,
WWW.SIXFLAGS.COM
GILROY
Bigger Slides for
Bigger Kids Debut
at Gilroy Gardens
The popular Water Oasis play area at Gilroy
Gardens Family Theme Park will double in
size this summer, with bigger slides for bigger
kids—and bigger smiles for everyone! The
expansion includes four new larger water slides
designed for older children, a giant tipping
bucket that splashes more than 300 gallons
of water, and over 90 additional spray jets
and other water play features. The expanded
Water Oasis also includes more family
cabanas, seating and shade umbrellas so that
everyone can have fun in (or out of) the sun.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: JANE HOWARD,
GILROY WELCOME CENTER, (408) 842-6436,
DIRECTOR@GILROYWELCOMECENTER.ORG,
WWW.VISITGILROY.COM
OAKLAND
Oakland Zoo’s New
California Trail Exhibit
Opens in July
Oakland Zoo invites visitors to embark on its
new California Trail this July 2018 featuring
an exciting exhibit that helps them explore
the Golden State’s natural past, present and
future. While the California Trail gondola,
visitor’s center and The Landing Café parts
of the expansion already opened, the animal
exhibits and the rest of the trail debut early
this summer. Open daily, The Landing Café
offers chef-inspired cuisine—from hand-tossed
pizzas and artisan burgers to gourmet salads—
paired with breathtaking views. When the
remaining exhibit opens, visitors can spy on a
variety of animals along their trek, including
the American Bison, American Black Bear,
Bald Eagle, California Condor, Gray Wolf,
Grizzly Bear, Jaguar and Mountain Lion.
MEDIA CONTACT: ALLIE NEAL, VISIT OAKLAND,
(510) 208-0529, ALLIE@VISITOAKLAND.COM,
WWW.VISITOAKLAND.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: VISITOR INFORMATION, VISIT
OAKLAND, (510) 839-9000, INFO@VISITOAKLAND.COM,
WWW.VISITOAKLAND.COM
SAN DIEGO
New Walkabout Australia
Coming Soon to San Diego
Zoo Safari Park
This summer “Walkabout Australia” debuts at
the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, transporting
visitors to the Land Down Under, where
they can come face-to-face with some of the
most mysterious animals on Earth. The new
walkthrough exhibit teems with kangaroos
hopping around, grasslands with wombats
frolicking, and forests filled with kookaburras
and cassowaries scurrying about. In addition
to entertaining families, the exhibit aims to
inspire a passion for wildlife and conservation,
encouraging kids and adults to save
endangered species like the tree kangaroo.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: SARAH WEINBERG-SCALO,
SAN DIEGO TOURISM AUTHORITY, (619) 557-2838,
SWEINBERG@SANDIEGO.ORG, WWW.SANDIEGO.ORG
15
SAN DIEGO
San Diego Zoo
Announces New
$69 Million Children’s Zoo
The San Diego Zoo recently revealed the details
of its most ambitious project to-date, a new
$69 million children’s zoo named after Denny
Sanford, a local philanthropist who donated
$30 million to the endeavor—the largest single
gift in the zoo’s history. The zoo management
expects the current children’s zoo to close in
January 2019 for the groundbreaking, with
construction completion slated for spring
2021. Although the current children’s zoo was
advanced for its time when it opened in 1957,
the new Sanford Children’s Zoo will feature
a reimagined 2.3-acre space offering greater
opportunities to discover the natural world
through play. Its redesign aims to help children
develop empathy for wildlife, including more
than 100 species and four ecosystems. In each
region, children will learn about the animals
and their environments in ways that awaken
their senses and inspire creativity, exploration
and understanding of nature through play.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: SARAH WEINBERG-SCALO,
SAN DIEGO TOURISM AUTHORITY, (619) 557-2838,
SWEINBERG@SANDIEGO.ORG, WWW.SANDIEGO.ORG
UNIVERSAL CITY
Universal Studios Unveils
New Kung Fu Panda
Attraction
Universal Studios Hollywood sets the stage this
summer for the debut of the new DreamWorks
Theatre’s premier attraction, “Kung Fu Panda:
The Emperor’s Quest.” Inspired by the global
blockbuster franchise, the attraction launches
June 15 and takes guests on a thrilling journey
that fuses captivating storytelling with state-
of-the-art visual effects. Created and produced
by DreamWorks Animation and Universal
Creative, “Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s
Quest” recounts a story where dragon warrior
Po embarks on a perilous mission to deliver the
rare and precious Liquid of Limitless Power
to the Palace. He enlists guests to join him
on the exciting adventure, filled with raging
rapids, river pirates, awesome magic and
Kung Fu. With cutting-edge technology at
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
16 VISIT CALIFORNIA
the forefront of the multi-sensory attraction,
“Kung Fu Panda: The Emperor’s Quest” will
introduce the first-ever integration of interior
projection mapping designed to engulf guests
in 180 degrees of immersive adventure.
MEDIA CONTACT: ANASTASIA LEE, UNIVERSAL
STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD, (818) 622-9504,
ANASTASIA.LEE@NBCUNI.COM,
WWW.UNIVERSALSTUDIOSHOLLYWOOD.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: GUEST SERVICES, UNIVERSAL
STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD, (800) 864-8377, EMAIL FORM:
WWW.UNIVERSALSTUDIOSHOLLYWOOD.COM/CONTACT-US,
WWW.UNIVERSALSTUDIOSHOLLYWOOD.COM
OUTDOOR
RECREATION
BIG SUR
Highway 1 at Big Sur’s
Mud Creek to Reopen
by end of September
Highway 1, the best-known scenic drive in
Monterey County and one of the top scenic
drives in the world, made news last year when a
large landslide at Mud Creek forced its closure.
This shutdown in southern Big Sur area meant
that road trippers were unable to complete this
bucket list drive in its entirety, from Monterey
to San Luis Obispo County. By the end of
September, this iconic road trip can be fully
experienced when that portion of Highway 1
reopens, allowing drivers to meander along the
longest and most scenic stretch of undeveloped
coastline in the contiguous United States.
MEDIA CONTACT: JESSICA KEENER, MONTEREY COUNTY
CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU, (831) 657-6413,
MEDIA@SEEMONTEREY.COM, WWW.SEEMONTEREY.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: VISITORS CENTER, MONTEREY
COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU,
(888) 221-1010, INFO@SEEMONTEREY.COM,
WWW.SEEMONTEREY.COM
WHAT’S NEW IN CALIFORNIA SUMMER 2018
CATALINA ISLAND
Explore New Adventures
on Catalina Island
Catalina is a happening place. More than one
million people visited last year, splashing in the
bay, zip-lining down mountains and raising
toasts to fun times on the island. This year’s
visitors will find new tours and activities to
help them enjoy California’s favorite getaway.
From Escape Rooms, a new Catalina Aerial
Adventure ropes course, renovated hiking trails
along the Trans-Catalina Trail, backcountry
concierge service and the new Harbor
Sands at Two Harbors, with a new sandy
beach, plush palapas, lounge chairs, a group
gathering space, food and beverage service
on the beach and a small business center.
MEDIA CONTACT: KAREN, MCAULEY,
RELEVANCE PR, (818) 541-7724,
KAREN@RELEVANCEPUBLICRELATIONS.COM,
HTTP://RELEVANCEPUBLICRELATIONS.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: KAREN MCAULEY,
RELEVANCE PR, (818) 541-7724,
KAREN@RELEVANCEPUBLICRELATIONS.COM,
WWW.CATALINAEXPRESS.COM
KENWOOD
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
Reopens After Wildfires
On the road to recovery after October’s
wildfires, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park in
eastern Sonoma County recently reopened
its campsites, picnic tables and trails in
April. Although a few fire scars may linger,
green carpets of grass and tender shoots
already cover the park, and wildflowers are
expected to be spectacular this year. To reach
this milestone, volunteers repaired wooden
bridges, walkways, retaining walls and other
damaged infrastructure. The Robert Ferguson
Observatory, located inside Sugarloaf,
once again hosts monthly star parties.
MEDIA CONTACT: JOHN RONEY, SUGARLOAF
RIDGE STATE PARK, (707) 833-5712,
JOHN@SONOMAECOLOGYCENTER.ORG,
WWW.SUGARLOAFPARK.ORG
PUBLIC CONTACT: VISITOR INFORMATION,
SUGARLOAF RIDGE STATE PARK, (707) 833-5712,
JOHN@SONOMAECOLOGYCENTER.ORG,
WWW.SUGARLOAFPARK.ORG
SHOPPING
CONCORD
New Veranda Mall
Opens in Concord
The East San Francisco Bay’s newest shopping
venture, The Veranda, just opened in Concord.
Built by CenterCal Properties, LLC, the
375,000-square-foot retail center features a
newly reimagined mix of open air shopping
and dining, gourmet grocery, Whole Foods
365, a luxury movie theatre and other
contemporary experiences. Guests can take in
authentic mission revival-style architecture,
lush landscaping and water features as they
shop, dine or attend a variety of special events.
Every third Sunday each month, guests can
join “The Cafe-Petrol Automotive Gathering”
from 8-10 a.m., featuring a display of exotic,
specialty, classic, fun or unique cars. The
Whole Foods 365 includes in-store eateries
Next Level Burger, an Oregon-based vegan
burger chain, and Urban Remedy, a Bay Area-
based purveyor of plant-based packaged meals,
juices and snacks. Later this year, Skate away
the Holidays will offer a fun ice skating rink.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: ASHTON SIMMONS,
CENTERCAL PROPERTIES, (925) 393-1116,
ASIMMONS@CENTERCAL.COM,
WWW.SHOPTHEVERANDA.COM
MORRO BAY
Morro Bay Oyster
Company Unveils
Interactive Retail Store
The Morro Bay Oyster Company, long a
renowned source of fresh Pacific Gold Oysters
for local restaurants, will soon open and sell
directly to the public in a brick-and-mortar
store. By this summer, visitors can enjoy hand-
harvested fresh oysters at an interactive retail
space at 1287 Embarcadero. The building
also houses a state-of-the-art wet storage
facility for holding oysters ready to sell. Oyster

lovers will be able to shop right on the water
and shuck their own oysters overlooking the
ocean and the Morro Bay Rock. Guests can
take advantage of oyster knives and gloves,
as well as limited seating outside on picnic
tables. In the future, the Morro Bay Oyster
Company will add an educational component,
inviting groups to tour the new facility.
MEDIA CONTACT: SUSAN HARTZLER,
MENTAL MARKETING, (818) 585-8641,
SHARTZLER@MENTALMARKETING.COM,
WWW.MENTALMARKETING.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: JENNIFER LITTLE, MORRO BAY,
(805) 225-1570, JLITTLE@MORROBAYCA.GOV,
WWW.MORROBAY.ORG
SONOMA
Abbot’s Passage Supply
Co. Debuts in Sonoma
Shoppers looking for an authentic local
experience can check out the new Abbot’s
Passage Supply Co. in downtown Sonoma.
Located in a transformed historic barn, the
store offers clothing, home décor, adventure
gear, curiosities, maker workshops and a tasting
salon with wines from the Abbot’s Passage
project. Named for an abbot from Mount La
Salle Christian Brothers who, according to local
legend, trekked weekly from Napa to Sonoma
on an ancient Native American footpath, the
Abbot’s Passage project offers a collection
of small-lot, co-fermented field blends from
Sonoma vineyards. Guests can enjoy a walk-
in tasting experience or make reservations
for an in-depth private tasting in the lofted
salon. Monthly maker workshops cover a wide
variety of topics, including recent programs
such as Hampui Medicine Hats, Obsidian
Arrowhead Carving, Lock Picking, and
Perfume with Loreto Remsing of L’Aromatica.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: KATIE BUNDSCHU,
ABBOT’S PASSAGE SUPPLY CO., (707) 939-3017,
EXPERIENCE@ABBOTSPASSAGE.COM,
WWW.ABBOTSPASSAGE.COM
TECHNOLOGY &
TOURS
New Mighway RV Platform
Rolls Out in California
Mighway, an innovative Airbnb-style peer-to-
peer platform that connects RV owners with
travelers, just launched in California and will
soon roll out across the U.S. Owned by TH2,
a new joint venture between Tourism Holdings
Limited (thl), the world’s largest RV rental
and sales operator, and Thor Industries—
manufacturers of the renowned Airstream and
Jayco RV brands—Mighway aims to provide
protection and service others can’t. While other
RV-sharing platforms serve more as booking
engines, Mighway offers full emergency road
service, $1 million in liability coverage and can
often find a replacement vehicle if needed. They
also provide a price match guarantee, so renters
get more value for their money. For owners
who want to rent out their RV when they
are not traveling, Mighway offers the unique
opportunity to manage the rental process for
them, from client relations and maintenance
to emergency repairs and discounted storage.
MEDIA CONTACT: JEANNE SULLIVAN, SULLIVANSAYS,
(650) 215-8156, JEANNE@SULLIVANSAYS.COM,
WWW.SULLIVANSAYS.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: CUSTOMER SERVICE, MIGHWAY,
(844) 462-9510, SUPPORT@MIGHWAY.COM,
WWW.MIGHWAY.COM
EUREKA
New Direct Flight Between
Eureka and LAX
Starting June 7, United Airlines will begin
nonstop service between Los Angeles and
Eureka. The service will be on a 50-seat CRJ
regional jet and will start with one morning
flight per day. It will depart LAX at 8:05 a.m.
and arrive at ACV at 9:55 a.m. It will then
depart ACV at 10:25 a.m. and arrive at
LAX at 12:15 p.m. Officially known as the
17
California Redwood Coast—Humboldt
County Airport, ACV is well situated to
explore the region, being 25 miles south
of Redwood National Park and 15 miles
north of the Victorian seaport of Eureka.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: RICHARD STENGER,
EUREKA-HUMBOLDT VISITORS BUREAU, (404) 443-5097,
RICHARD@VISITREDWOODS.COM,
WWW.VISITREDWOODS.COM
GEYSERVILLE
Explore Lake Sonoma
by Horseback with New
Ranger Tour
This summer, visitors can join a U.S. Army
Corps Park Ranger for a rare horseback tour
at The Ranch at Lake Sonoma. The new
“Interpretive Ride with a Ranger” program
helps guests explore the 17,000-acre park,
taking in gorgeous lakeside views as the
ranger points out the flora and fauna and
explains the history and purpose of Lake
Sonoma. Since 2016, The Ranch at Lake
Sonoma Horseback Riding offers a variety
of scenic guided horseback tours for riders
of all levels of experience. The trails overlook
the Dry Creek Valley, Lake Sonoma,
and the rugged Rockpile wine region—
located just 15 minutes from downtown
Healdsburg in northern Sonoma County.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: NIKKI BAXES, THE RANCH AT
LAKE SONOMA HORSEBACK RIDING, (707) 494-4449,
THERANCHATLAKESONOMA@OUTLOOK.COM,
WWW.THERANCHATLAKESONOMA.COM
MENDOCINO COUNTY
Visit Mendocino County
Launches New Website
and Brand
Visit Mendocino County is thrilled to
announce its new brand and website launch,
both of which are focused on attracting
Millennials and Gen-Xers to our destination.
Mendocino County is the place where everyone
can experience a #MendoMoment… whether
it’s hugging a tree deep in the redwood
forest, kayaking along Big River, lighting a
campfire on the beach or just unplugging
and relaxing with a glass of world-class wine!
Working with our partners at TheorySF,
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
18 VISIT CALIFORNIA

Visit Mendocino County delved into what
our audience is looking for in a destination:
experiential adventure with a touch of whimsy
and nostalgia. And with this in mind, we
arrived at the perfect representation of our new
brand: an old-fashioned hotel key fob with
the inscription “Find Your Happy.” Come
and find your happy in Mendocino County!
Check out www.visitmendocino.com.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: ALISON DE GRASSI,
MENDOCINO COUNTY TOURISM COMMISSION,
(707) 508-6752, ALISON@VISITMENDOCINO.COM,
WWW.VISITMENDOCINO.COM
NORTH LAKE TAHOE
The addition of the kayaks is particularly
exciting, with each kayak glowing in a
variety of different colors and equipped
with lighting technology that enables the
passenger to see up to 20 feet into the water
below. Additionally, the Crystal Kayaks
each feature wireless waterproof speakers,
a waterproof phone case, high-quality
“dry bags,” goggles and snorkels, mount at
front of kayak for GoPro, safety equipment
needed to protect guests, and much more.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: JESSICA PAULETTO, THE ABBI
AGENCY, (775) 323-2977, JESSICA@THEABBIAGENCY.COM,
WWW.WILDSOCIETYLT.COM
State Historical Landmark, the Castro Adobe
offers visitors a glimpse of life in the 1800s.
Featuring a rancho cocina—a Mexican
kitchen and a rarity in California—and an
expansive fandango room upstairs, the house
sits at the crest of a hill offering glimpses of
Monterey Bay. Visitors can enjoy the home’s
beautiful yard, which includes clusters of
cacti, a small orchard blossoming with
apple, persimmon and walnut trees, and a
peaceful garden dotted with magnificent
old cork trees. Visitors can learn to rope,
make tortillas in the cocina, and enjoy
speakers, music and family-friendly events.

Tahoe Adventure Company SAN DIEGO MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: CHRISTINA GLYNN,

VISIT SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, (831) 427-4405,

Debuts New Guided Tours New Hop On & Off CGLYNN@SANTACRUZ.ORG, WWW.VISITSANTACRUZ.ORG

When Cheryl Strayed published the book
“Wild,” documenting her memoirs along the
Pacific Crest Trail, it ignited outdoor folks
to also consider multi-day backpacking tours
for self-discovery. Ancient pilgrimages and
survival missions are available throughout
the peaks and valleys of North Lake Tahoe’s
diverse trail systems. The iconic Tahoe Rim
Trail meets the Pacific Crest Trail near Tahoe
City. Join Tahoe Adventure Company (TAC)
this summer for guided backpacking tours,
from 2- to 8-day excursions. Or enjoy a TAC’s
new spring mountain bike program for daily
mountain bike tours at Tahoe Cross-Country
in Tahoe City. Excursions follow trail system
along high alpine lakes, old growth conifers
and colorful wildflowers at 8,000–10,000
feet in elevation. Northstar California
transforms from ski resort to mountain
biking mecca in the spring/summer months.
Guests can experience the exceptional Bike
Park with access to countless downhill trails
accessible by the Gondola and Chair Lifts.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: JESSICA PAULETTO, THE ABBI
Bus Tour Launches TRI-VALLEY
in San Diego
Self-Guided Bike Tours
The Hopper™, a new premier double-decker bus
Roll Out in Tri-Valley
tour and attraction service, launched in April
Visit Tri-Valley, in partnership with My
in San Diego, providing guests an opportunity
City Bikes, just rolled out a set of self-
to learn about and explore San Diego’s best
guided bicycle tours to help visitors access
sights and hop on or off for further discovery.
the region’s best local attractions on two
The Hopper buses stop at six locations: Old
wheels. The Danville tour features a 13-mile
Town, Little Italy, Balboa Park, Gaslamp
ride to Danville, Blackhawk and the Iron
Quarter, Seaport Village and Embarcadero.
Horse Trail, including optional stops at local
The Hopper Plus package features access to
museums, farm-to-table restaurants and
attractions like Hornblower harbor cruises,
historical sites. Cyclers taking the Livermore
the USS Midway Museum, Flagship ferry
Valley Wine Country tour can pedal across
service to Coronado, the Maritime Museum
a 27-mile route that starts and finishes in
and more. In addition to the pleasure of letting
Downtown Livermore, including attractions
others do the driving, guests can enjoy premier
such as renowned vineyards, recreational and
amenities such as climate control, concessions,
scenic areas, and popular eateries. Riders can
on-board restrooms, 4-G Wi-Fi, electric
explore history, exceptional shopping, global
outlets and underneath storage.
cuisine and picturesque outdoor spaces on the
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: SARAH WEINBERG-SCALO,
Pleasanton/Dublin tour, an 18-mile route that
SAN DIEGO TOURISM AUTHORITY, (619) 557-2838,
SWEINBERG@SANDIEGO.ORG, WWW.SANDIEGO.ORG starts and finishes in downtown Pleasanton.
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: ROBIN FAHR,
SANTA CRUZ VISIT TRI-VALLEY, (925) 215-4711,

Castro Adobe State

AGENCY, (775) 323-2977, JESSICA@THEABBIAGENCY.COM, ROBIN@VISITTRIVALLEY.COM,
HTTP://TAHOEADVENTURECOMPANY.COM WWW.VISITTRIVALLEY.COM

Historic Park Now Open

NORTH LAKE TAHOE
Wild Society Debuts
New Light-up Kayaks
In time for the summer season, Wild Society
has debuted new light-up kayaks for night
tours, along with clear-bottom kayaks, sunset
picnic tours, yoga and paddle boarding.
for Free Monthly Tours
For the first time in 168 years, visitors can
take a free tour of the original home of Juan
Jose Castro, a Mexican rancher who settled in
the Watsonville area. Listed on the National
Register of Historic Places listings in Santa
Cruz County, and designated as a California

WHAT’S NEW IN CALIFORNIA SUMMER 2018


WELLNESS
SANTA ROSA
Rock-Climbing Star to
Open $6 Million Attraction
Santa Rosa native Kevin Jorgeson—who
captured the world’s attention in 2015 when
he conquered the free climb of Yosemite
National Park’s Dawn Wall at El Capitan, once
considered impossible—recently announced
plans for a facility to help visitors reach new
heights. By early 2019, Jorgeson will open
Session Climbing, a rock climbing gym
which celebrates his passion for the sport
and aims to inspire others to excel. The
$6 million new build will include a community
event space, yoga rooms and climbing walls
that ascend to 47 feet. The on-site café,
inspired by Jorgeson’s nights spent by a
campfire with friends after a long climbing
day, will be a focal point for the gym.
MEDIA CONTACT: SARAH DANIEL, MCCUE
MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS, (213) 545-7446,
SARAH@MCCUECOMMUNICATIONS.COM,
WWW.MCCUECOMMUNICATIONS.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: BRAD CALKINS, VISIT SANTA ROSA,
(707) 524-2116, BRADC@VISITSANTAROSA.COM,
WWW.VISITSANTAROSA.COM
MIL ESTONES
RUSSIAN RIVER
Russian River
Celebrates 100 Years
Johnson’s Beach on the western end of Sonoma
County’s famous Russian River celebrates its
100th anniversary this summer. Ernie and
Gertie Johnson founded Johnson’s Kamp in
19
1918, for guests taking the train up from San TAHOE CITY
Francisco to escape the fog, adding the lodge Tahoe City Golf
building and rustic cabins to accommodate
growth in the 1920s. To mark the milestone
Course Turns 100
this summer, Johnson’s Beach, owned by the The Tahoe City Golf Course (TCGC) tees
Moore-Poirier family, will offer anniversary up for a year of celebrations and promotions
activities, including the Centennial Celebration as it turns 100. The course, designed by
music festival on June 9 (headliners Goo female pro-golfer, “Queenie Mae Dunn”
Goo Dolls and Shaggy), Russian River Blues in 1918, will celebrate with a 1918 rate—
Festival on June 10 (headliners Robert Cray, 50 cents for nine holes—from May 11–13.
Eric Burdon and Taj Mahal), and Russian The Kick-off Event on June 8 will feature
River Jazz Fest from Sept. 8-9 (headliners a historical presentation by local Mark
TBA). Throughout the summer guests can McGlaughlin, plus a tutorial of throw-back
enjoy lodging, tent camping, and rentals of equipment, such as the Hickory Stick,
boats, umbrellas and other beach essentials. which demonstrates how hard it was to
golf a century ago. TCGC will host the
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: DAN POIRIER, JOHNSON’S
BEACH, (415) 265-1930, DANPOIRIER@YAHOO.COM, Community Golf Tourney on June 9, and
WWW.JOHNSONSBEACH.COM
a Kids & Family Clinic on August 19,
taught by pro golfer Annika Sorenstam.
SANTA ROSA
Promotions include Queenie May Dunn
Santa Rosa Marks Days on Tuesdays (excluding July 3),
150th Anniversary where ladies play nine holes for $19.18, and
Throwback Thursdays (excluding July 5)
In the wake of last year’s wine country
where guests play nine holes for $19.18.
wildfires, Santa Rosa celebrates its rebound this
MEDIA/PUBLIC CONTACT: JESSICA PAULETTO,
year with a series of Sesquicentennial events—
THE ABBI AGENCY, (775) 323-2977,
culminating with a town party in September— JESSICA@THEABBIAGENCY.COM,
WWW.GOLFTAHOECITY.COM
and new business openings. 150th Anniversary
events include the Luther Burbank Rose Parade
and Festival on May 18, building on the theme
“Together We Rose,” acknowledging the post-
fire revival moment in the city’s history. The
Official Sesquicentennial Celebration takes
place Sept. 8 and includes local bites, live
music, historical displays, children’s activities
and burying a new time capsule. The city’s
business openings reflect the community’s
recovery, including new accommodations such
as The Astro Motel, and a variety of eateries.
New or rebuilt restaurants include Gerard’s
Paella, Jade Room Wine Bar + Oysterette,
Perch + Plow, The Parish Café, Miracle Plum,
Chicago Style Pizza with a Twist, Beer Baron,
Sweet T’s and 2 Tread Brewing Company.
MEDIA CONTACT: MARCELLA THOMPKINS,
MCCUE COMMUNICATIONS, (213) 985-1011,
MARCELLA@MCCUECOMMUNICATIONS.COM,
WWW.VISITSANTAROSA.COM
PUBLIC CONTACT: INFORMATION DESK,
CITY OF SANTA ROSA, (707) 577-8674,
EMAIL FORM: WWW.VISITSANTAROSA.COM/CONTACT,
WWW.VISITSANTAROSA.COM
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
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U.S. Postage

PAID
Permit No. 1434
Sacramento, CA

FSC_Labels_LNBW
VISIT CALIFORNIA
555 Capitol Mall, Suite 1100
Landscape / Negative
Sacramento, / BlackUSA
CA 95814 & White (LNBW)

visitcalifornia.com
media.visitcalifornia.com

S FSC_100_LNBW.EPS
S FSC_100_LNBW.JPG
Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXX
FSC_100_LNBW.TIF

PS FSC_MS_1_LNBW.EPS
PG FSC_MS_1_LNBW.JPG
IF FSC_MS_1_LNBW.TIF
Do you have a name or address change?
Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXX

Just email changes to us at communications@visitcalifornia.com.

Please include your current mailing information with any
necessary corrections.

PS FSC_MS_2_LNBW.EPS
PG XX% FSC_MS_2_LNBW.JPG
IF Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXX
FSC_MS_2_LNBW.TIF

PS FSC_MS_3_LNBW.EPS
PG FSC_MS_3_LNBW.JPG
IF Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXX
FSC_MS_3_LNBW.TIF

PS FSC_MS_4_LNBW.EPS
PG FSC_MS_4_LNBW.JPG
IF FSC_MS_4_LNBW.TIF
Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXX

PS FSC_MS_5_LNBW.EPS
PG XX% FSC_MS_5_LNBW.JPG
IF Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXX
FSC_MS_5_LNBW.TIF

PS FSC_RE_1_LNBW.EPS
PG FSC_RE_1_LNBW.JPG
F Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXX
FSC_RE_1_LNBW.TIF

VISITCALIFORNIA.COM
MEDIA.VISITCALIFORNIA.COM