Bay Area happenings:
The 158th Scottish Games returns to the Tri-Valley this Labor Day weekend. The two-day event at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton celebrates Scottish heritage with live performances, unique vendors, archery demos, kids activities, living history displays, athletic competitions and animal exhibitions.
More than 55 wineries make up the Livermore Valley Wine Country and many will have special events and tastings this weekend.
Want the scoop on the best places in the East Bay for ice cream? Check out the Tri-Valley Ice Cream Trail, collect points after each visit and win prizes.
Take a day trip to Point Reyes National Seashore, featuring approximately 80 miles of shoreline, including dozens of miles of sandy beaches that visitors can explore.
Taste your way along the California Cheese Trail. Cheese Trail maps can be found at all the public cheese retail locations, including Cowgirl Creamery, Nicasio Valley Cheese Company and Marin French Cheese Company in Marin.
Southern California trips:
Roll at Santa Monica, a seasonal roller skating rink located in the heart of the beach community is now open through Oct. 14. The 4,800-square outdoor rink hosts the LA Skate Hunnies on the second Wednesday of each month for themed skating events and group skating lessons.
The Oceanside Museum of Art welcomes “Transformative Currents: Art and Action in the Pacific Ocean,” a new exhibit in partnership with the Getty Museum’s PST ART initiative. The exhibit examines the historical causes and ongoing effects of the cultural and environmental devastation of the Pacific Ocean with diverse media by 21 artists.
Head to a Bay Area beach:
Visit California recommends checking out the Marin Headlands, a tract of coastal land that is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. With knife-edge cliffs and steep, chaparral-covered slopes there is plenty to see and do. A drive along the meandering Conzelman Road will take visitors to the trailhead for Kirby Cove, one of the best places to photograph the Golden Gate Bridge,
While you’re in the headlands, tour the Marine Mammal Center to see injured seals and sea lions being cared for and then returned to the wild.
South of San Francisco lies the wild and rugged San Mateo coast, where dozens of beaches can be accessed on foot. Near downtown Half Moon Bay, a half-mile hike leads to the secluded cove at Cowell Ranch State Beach. When you’ve had your fill of salty air, head over to Main Street in Half Moon Bay and take your pick between fish-and-chips at Flying Fish Grill and bangers and brews at Sacrilege Brewing.
(*Information previously compiled by Visit California)
