If you are like me, you are watching your travel budget carefully, asking where you can go that’s interesting but affordable. I might suggest you consider a SoCal vacation. It’s got the beaches, theme parks, roller coasters, Hollywood and lots more.

The beautiful state of Hawaii should also be on the list, if you find a good deal on airfare. Although those warm beaches are hard to resist, there’s not as much variety in vacation options as California. The Southern California Vacation Guru has written about the differences between vacations in Southern California and Hawaii. In Southern California you don’t need to worry as much about underwater rocks; also, the humidity is generally lower and the sunshine less intimidating. The water temperature is higher in the Aloha state, but in the middle of summer, the cooler water can be more refreshing.

Of course, the vegetation in Hawaii is often magnificent and the local culture adds much to the experience. However, the California coastline, mountains and desert are quite beautiful as well, and the place is a melting pot of cultural diversity.

Southern California offers much more than great beaches. There are a half-dozen major theme parks to be visited. Knott’s Berry Farm and Magic Mountain offer some great roller coasters, among many other attractions. Both offer many coasters and other fun rides. Disneyland has a few attractions that would be considered thrill rides, but not nearly as many as those other two parks.

You won’t find many roller coasters in Hawaii, although surfing on the North Shore of Oahu in winter would qualify as a thrill ride. In terms of the budget, there may be great vacation specials to both destinations, but you can drive to California if airfare is too costly.

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