Picnicking, stargazing, rock-climbing, and spelunking keep locals coming back to Pinnacles National Park again and again. There are 16,000 acres of mountainous wilderness to explore.
Yosemite National Park is among the most-visited national parks in America. Yosemite is known for its breathtaking waterfalls. There are over 750 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy hikes and guided tours to advanced ventures deep into the High Sierras.
Kings Canyon National Park protects ancient groves of sequoia trees, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and unique rock formations. Photographers and sightseers will enjoy impressive views of the Sierra Mountains and the towering sequoia. Hiking, horseback riding, and camping are the most popular activities in the park.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is California's oldest state park and is only 30 minutes from Soquel. Ancient coast redwoods and a rich variety of other plant and animal life are found in the park, with elevations ranging from sea level to 2,000 feet. Hiking trails bring you past waterfalls and other beautiful sights.
New Brighton State Beach is nearby and offers expansive shoreline views and easily accessible campgrounds, including over 100 sites for RVs. It became a state park in 1933 and is known for its great wildlife viewing opportunities. You can see a variety of birds alongside marine mammals such as dolphins, whales, and sea otters.
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is 10 minutes away from the center of Soquel, making it the perfect place to break from urban life and picnic or take a short hike. While there's no camping available at The Forest of Nisene Marks, the 30 miles of trails in this enchanting and heavily forested area can be enjoyed regardless of how long you stay.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is 40 minutes south of Soquel, in Monterey, California, and is one of the top landmarks in California. This famous, deeply educational aquarium employs some of the country's top marine biologists and offers visitors delightful exhibits and exciting marine life.
Head north to San Francisco and you'll find the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most famous and photographed landmarks in the world. It's a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
Less than 30 minutes away from Soquel is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The boardwalk is featured in classic films such as "Harold and Maude" and "The Lost Boys." This ocean-side amusement park offers thrilling rides and lovely views of the Pacific.
The Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday is right on the beach and perfect for a family affair. It has numerous playgrounds, a camp store, and a kitchen on site. The Mari Dunes RV Park is ideal for beachside campers wanting to bring their RVs and offers plenty of amenities, including laundry facilities and showers. From Santa Cruz Harbor RV Park, you'll find views of the marina just outside your window, and each site has sewer, electricity, and water hookups. There are many other great choices for campgrounds and RV parks near Monterey for more ideas and details.
How do I properly pack and store my belongings inside a camper van rental, and what storage options are available?
When renting a Class B motorhome from an RVshare owner, there are typically several storage options available for your belongings. You can utilize overhead storage compartments, under-bench storage, and even cabinets for heavier items. When packing your belongings, it's best to use soft-sided luggage or collapsible containers to save on space. Keep items secure while driving by using bungee cords or tension rods to prevent shifting during travel.
Can I drive a camper van rental in Soquel, CA without prior experience, and are there any special driving considerations I should know?
Driving a Class B motorhome rental is typically similar to driving a regular car, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to adjust your mirrors before setting off and be aware of the height and length of your vehicle. It's also advisable to take a test drive around the RVshare owner's neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the handling and braking of the vehicle before embarking on your trip.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the camper van rental during my rental period?
The owner of the RV is responsible for maintenance. Renters should keep the RV clean and handle with care to avoid any damages. You may need to empty the water tanks depending on your agreement with the RV owner.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a camper van motorhome rental in Soquel, CA?
It's important to know the height and weight restrictions of your camper van rental in order to avoid accidents or getting stuck in low clearance areas, especially when traveling on highways or bridges. It's also advisable to check local regulations regarding weight limits when driving on certain roads.
Can I park or store a Class B motorhome rental in a regular parking spot or garage in Soquel, CA, or are there specific requirements for parking and storage?
Parking a Class B motorhome rental in a regular spot or garage can be challenging due to the size of the vehicle. It's important to check local regulations and parking restrictions before setting off on your trip. RVshare owners may also provide guidance on where it is safe to park or store the vehicle.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class B motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Most Class B motorhomes are relatively fuel efficient, but it's important to be mindful of your driving habits in order to minimize fuel costs. Avoid idling the engine unnecessarily, accelerate smoothly, and avoid excessive speeding. It's also a good idea to plan your route before departing in order to avoid getting lost or taking unnecessary detours.
Are any particular features or amenities available in a camper van rental that may not be found in other RVs in Soquel, CA?
Features and amenities vary depending on the model of the Class B motorhome rental, but some popular options include a built-in microwave, refrigerator, and TV/DVD player. Some models may also include a shower and toilet, while others may not. Check the listing details on RVshare for all of the available amenities for each rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class B motorhome rental?
Each RVshare owner may have different instructions for using the kitchen and bathroom facilities in their Class B motorhome rental. In the bathroom, there may be a shower and/or toilet that needs to be hooked up to water and sewage sources. RVshare owners will typically provide instruction manuals or walkthroughs of the rental vehicle's features.
Should I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the camper van rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
While some Class B motorhome rentals may include entertainment equipment or appliances, such as a grill or music player, it's always a good idea to double-check with the RVshare owner about what amenities are included in the rental. If you have specific entertainment preferences, you may want to bring your own equipment or devices.
Are any specific campgrounds or RV parks in Soquel, CA particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Soquel, CA that are well-suited for Class B motorhome rentals. Some popular amenities include electrical hookups, dump stations for sewage, and picnic tables. It's important to research and reserve a spot in advance to ensure availability during your trip. RVshare owners may also have recommendations for great campsites or RV parks in the area.
