It's a well-known statement that the West Coast is the Best Coast, but here are the real reasons why.
Weather
The weather in each of the three west coast states is all different, but you’re bound to find the weather that is most perfect for you – from the sunshine of southern California, to the cool air of the Washington coast, the west has it all.
People
There are some pretty amazing people on the west coast, like celebrities in Hollywood, or professional athletes from one of the twenty seven teams based in California, Oregon, and Washington. You could find a hipster in Portland or a surfer dude in San Diego; no matter where you go, there will be some crazy interesting people there.
Food
You haven’t had good Mexican food until you’ve tried it in San Diego. Maybe it’s the close proximity to Mexico, or maybe it’s just a talent that reached the area and never decided to branch out to the east coast. Of course we can’t forget the all famous In-N-Out Burger, with its extensive reputation for animal style fries and amazing burgers. Once you get up north to Seattle, hit up Ivars for the best seafood you’ll find.
Music
Some of the best artists have come from the west; so many so that it’d be impossible for there to not be one that you love. Cher and Katy Perry were each from California, Esperanza Spalding was from Oregon, while Washington was the birth place of Sir Mix-a-Lot and Kurt Cobain. The bay area is well known for its home to many major hip hop artists from the start of the careers and before. Plus, any good concert you every want to see is bound to get to Los Angeles’ Staples Center.
The Amusement Parks
This is a huge list, let’s be real. California alone has about any amusement park you could ask for. Starting from Legoland and Seaworld, you can go up the state to find Knott’s Berry Farm, Six Flag’s Magic Mountain, Universal Studios, Six Flag’s Discovery Kingdom, California’s Great America, and even the boardwalks like Belmont and Santa Cruz. Every one of these is sure to be an entire day of fun, and even greater memories.
Disneyland and California Adventure
Even though these are technically “amusement parks,” it’s also considered the happiest place on earth, so it’s only fair it has its own bullet point. Disneyland is absolutely incredible for kids of all ages, and even those nasty teenagers. They offer discounts for locals and military, making it extra accessible, while also being home to the famous Grad Nite. Grad Nite is a time when high schools seniors from the area come down to Disneyland and after a certain time, the park is closed down and seniors roam the land. One of the best experiences for me personally, but even cooler to know that in high school even my parents participated in this crucial rite of passage. You can’t come to the West and not take a trip here.
The Beaches
If you’re from the east coast and you think your “beaches” can even compare, you are sadly mistaken. Even Florida beaches aren’t better than Southern California beaches due to their incredible humidity that’ll leave you in a heat stroke. La Jolla to Mission Beach, the water is never too cold, and the weather is (mostly) perfect. One time I saw a seal next to me at mission beach. I cried but it’s cool, still an interesting memory.
The Destinations
More than just beaches and amusement parks, there are some places in the west that you have to see. Pike’s Place in Seattle is an incredible experience. Great people, and beautiful views. Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco smells like fish but you won’t find a better dinner anywhere else in the state. While in California, don’t forget to make a quick stop to a wine-tasting. Our grapes are better than yours.
The West Coast is always welcoming to tourists, except when you take California’s water or drive (traffic is already bad enough). There’s enough in this list to inspire a huge trip, and I definitely recommend it.
