California in Summer

After the winter rains end, the grass on California hillsides turns a golden color that intensifies in the late afternoon, giving credence to the theory that California's nickname "The Golden State" comes from the color of its hills. It's something that takes a little getting used to if you're from other parts of the country, but after living here a few years, I find the golden summer landscape one of the most appealing.

Nature

Summer is the time when California's agricultural abundance is most evident. Everywhere you travel, you'll find fields full of every imaginable crop. Caravans of produce-filled trucks swarm on the highways. the white ones almost overflowing with bright red tomatoes looking especially pretty.

During spring and summer, two to six nights after the full and new moons and right after high tide, thousands of small grunion fish come ashore on southern California beaches. In about 30 seconds, the female digs a small hole, lays her eggs and the male fertilizes them. The result is a summer evening fishy version of an X-Rated movie and thousands of people come to watch at beaches around San Diego and Los Angeles.

Driving

Highways are generally open in summer except for repairs and improvement projects. It's always wise to check a highway's status if you plan to travel on it. Two of California's most scenic highways are open only in the summer:

• Tioga Pass through Yosemite may open any time after April 15. This is the most direct route to the fascinating area east of the Sierras that includes the ghost town of Bodie and the world's oldest living things - the Bristlecone Pines.

• While Sequoia National Park is open year-round, the road into Kings Canyon opens in early summer. This is a spectacular drive into the heart of a glacier-carved canyon formed by the steepest river in the United States.

Special Events

Summer in California is the time for festivals and concerts. Almost every weekend, someone is celebrating an item of California agriculture, and outdoor theatre performances are one of the best things to do on a summer evening.

Fourth of July is the zenith of summer celebration. Locales from Lake Tahoe to San Diego set off pyrotechnic extravaganzas. Use our guide to find the one that best suits you.

In Los Angeles, the Hollywood Bowl summer concert series is unique in its ambience and beauty. Near San Jose, the intimate and historic Paul Masson Mountain Winery attracts big names and in San Francisco, the concerts are always free at San Francisco's Stern Grove.