Want to escape from Stanislaus County heat? See 6 cooler spots for spring break
Spring break is just around the corner.
According to the Stanislaus County of Education, spring vacation begins as early as Monday, March 23, for some students.
Others won’t be off until early April.
With temperatures climbing to record highs, you might be searching for a cooler place to unwind — or simply looking for ways to keep the kids entertained while school is out.
If you’re hoping to beat the heat, here are six cooler-weather destinations within a three-hour drive of the Modesto region worth checking out:
Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is expected to stay pleasantly cool this weekend, with high temperatures remaining below 75 degrees, according to the latest seven-day forecast.
The coastal getaway is less than a two-hour drive — about 97 miles — from Modesto.
Tripadvisor describes Half Moon Bay as “an idyllic enclave and truly the perfect place to spend some time away from the big city.”
Visitors can spend the day browsing local shops, relaxing along the beach or exploring one of the area’s many art galleries.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park offers a refreshing break from the record-breaking heat in Stanislaus County, with high temperatures forecast to stay below 70 degrees this weekend, according to the latest seven-day forecast.
Yosemite National Park is a two-hour drive from the Modesto region, Google Maps said.
“A year-round destination, Yosemite allows access to high-elevation hiking in the summer due to melted snow,” Tripadvisor said.
Some of the top destinations in Yosemite include Glacier Point, Tunnel View and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.
Monterey
The scenic Central Coast city of Monterey is about a two-hour drive — roughly 119 miles — from Modesto, according to Google Maps.
While the Modesto region heats up, Monterey is expected to stay much cooler this weekend, with temperatures hovering around 70 degrees, according to the National Weather Service.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Monterey, Tripadvisor said.
The travel site highlighted popular attractions, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which features more than 200 exhibits showcasing ocean wildlife.
Visitors can also explore the shops, galleries and scenic waterfront along Cannery Row.
South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe is less than a three-hour drive from Stanislaus County, according to Google Maps.
The Sierra Nevada destination is expected to see sunny skies this weekend, with high temperatures in the low 70s — a refreshing break from the valley heat.
Tripadvisor describes South Lake Tahoe as a place that blends “the spectacular beauty of a national park” with the amenities of a world-class resort.
Visitors can enjoy hiking scenic trails, relaxing on the lake’s many beaches or popping into shopping malls.
Pinecrest
Pinecrest is shaping up to be a cool weekend retreat, with high temperatures expected to stay below 80 degrees, according to the latest seven-day forecast.
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, the destination is less than a two-hour drive — or about 80 miles — from Modesto.
According to Tripadvisor, visitors can relax by the lake, hike scenic trails, rent a paddle boat or explore the surrounding forest.
Capitola
Capitola sits along the California coast near Santa Cruz.
Along with sunny skies, high temperatures are expected to stay below 80 degrees this weekend.
The seaside town is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from the Modesto region.
“An esplanade winds around village shops and bistros, while picture-ready views from the Capitola Wharf create a relaxing atmosphere,” Tripadvisor said.
Visitors can spend the day lounging on the sand, strolling through local shops or enjoying the town’s laid-back charm.
