HBCOA 714.374.1524 • SENIOR CENTER IN CENTRAL PARK 714.536.5600 • HOAG HEALTH & WELLNESS PAVILION 714.374.1578 • TRANSPORTATION 714.374.1742
Travel, Trips, and Tours
HBCOA Travel Coordinator
Ellen HopeKearns, PhD
e.hopekearns@hbcoa.org
Special 2024 Travel, Trips, and Tours
The HBCOA offers exciting and enriching day trips to local So-Cal destinations and points of interest. The health, well-being, and enjoyment of the travel guests are our number one concern.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- All tours are developed and operated by Good Times Travel (California Seller of Travel #2018390-40), a local, licensed and reputable tour operator that has been in business for 30 years
- Onboard the newer, deluxe, fully-equipped motorcoaches is a Senior Center representative, professional driver and bottled water
- Price includes transportation, sightseeing, admission and meals as indicated
To Book a Trip
The Travel and Resource Room at the Senior Center is open for in-person booking appointments. Call the Travel and Resource Room at (714) 374-1572 to ensure that the room is open and operating before coming in to book, and to check the availability of the trips.
Trip registration is available Monday- Friday in the Travel and Resource Room at the Senior Center in Central Park. Unless otherwise noted trips depart from the Huntington Beach Central Library Theater parking lot on Goldenwest and Talbert next to the Central Library.
Single-Day Excursions
Lake Arrowhead Getaway
Narrated Lake Cruise & Lake Arrowhead Village
Thursday, June 27, 2024
Today we escape the heat and breathe in the fresh air in this breathtaking alpine wonderland (elevation 5,200’), known as the “Alps of Southern California.” Nestled in the majestic mountains of the San Bernardino National Forest, Lake Arrowhead is stunningly beautiful and offers a natural peacefulness that has lured people to these mountains for centuries. Enjoy time at leisure in the charming Lake Arrowhead Village for browsing and lunch on your own at the variety of eateries. Nestled amongst an evergreen forest along the Lake Arrowhead shoreline, the Village features an assortment of quaint specialty shops and outlet stores in the style of a Swiss chalet. This afternoon, we’ll enjoy a narrated cruise on Lake Arrowhead aboard the Lake Arrowhead Queen, a Louisiana-style paddle-wheeler. The serenity of Lake Arrowhead's lush forests and sparkling water provide a splendid backdrop as we sit back and enjoy up-close views of lakeside homes and learn about the region’s colorful history. This tour involves driving on mountain roads.
Price: $119; Non-Member Price $129 • Depart: 9:00 a.m.• Return: 6:30 p.m.
Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Spectacular
Starring Harry Connick Jr. & the Los Angeles Philharmonic
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Join us for one of southern California’s greatest July 4th traditions as fireworks illuminate the sky above the legendary Hollywood Bowl! This memorable evening under the stars will feature a thrilling headliner performance, patriotic music and a thrilling fireworks finale! The Los Angeles Philharmonic will perform a program of patriotic favorites such as John Philip Sousa’s rousing marches followed by a set by this year’s headliner, Harry Connick Jr. and his band! This versatile and multi-faceted entertainer that acts, composes and sings has sold over 30 million albums and achieved multi-platinum status while collecting three Grammy Awards, two Emmy Awards and a Tony nomination. Influenced by Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole, Harry’s swinging piano skills and velvety baritone voice helped bring New Orleans jazz, traditional pop and romantic ballads back into the mainstream with such hits as “It Had to Be You,” “The Way You Look Tonight,” and “Just the Way You Are.” Our bench seats (with backs and included seat cushion) are ideally situated in the center of the Bowl in the M & N sections within Promenade 3. Buy dinner at the Bowl or bring a picnic dinner (all items including wine bottles and glasses are permitted, however containers, baskets and coolers are limited to 15" wide, 15" high and 22" long and must be stored beneath your bench seat). This tour involves moderate walking.
Price: $136; Non-Member Price $146 • Depart: 4:00 pm. • Return: 11:30 p.m.
Anacapa Island Wildlife Cruise With Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center & Ventura Harbor Village
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
This fun and educational day provides the perfect way to discover Channel Islands National Park, a “treasure in the sea” that is close to the California mainland, yet worlds apart. Our exploration begins at the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center, featuring a display of marine aquatic life, exhibits focused on the unique character of each island and an observation tower offering one of the best views of Ventura Harbor, the coastline and the Channel Islands. Then, enjoy time at leisure in the picturesque Ventura Harbor Village to take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, browse the boutiques and art galleries and enjoy lunch on your own at a variety of casual waterfront eateries. This afternoon, we’ll embark on a 3 ½ hour narrated wildlife cruise through the waters of Santa Barbara Channel, Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and Channel Islands National Park. Just 12 miles from the California coast, Anacapa Island is the smallest and the closest of the Channel Islands. On this non-landing cruise, we’ll journey along the rugged shoreline and surrounding waters of Anacapa Island with views of the famous Arch Rock, the working lighthouse atop the island and a variety of wildlife. Channel Islands National Park and its ocean environment preserves and protects a wealth of natural and cultural resources. Isolation over thousands of years has created unique animals, plants, and archeological resources found nowhere else on Earth and helped preserve a place where visitors can experience coastal southern California as it once was. Our large passenger vessel features a restroom onboard and offers both indoor and outdoor seating on multiple decks. While traveling across the Santa Barbara Channel our journey may be highlighted by wildlife sightings including dolphins, sea lions and birds.
Member Price: $129; Non-member Price: $139 • Depart: 8:00 a.m. • Return: 8:00 p.m.
Gentle Giants, Dudes & Donuts Equestrian Therapy Center, Surf Museum & Craft Donuts With Included Barbecue-Style Lunch
Thursday, August 15, 2024
On this uplifting and unique new tour, we’ll travel to Oceanside and visit a therapeutic equestrian center to learn the heartwarming story behind its founding and impactful mission. Learn how these gentle giants and the therapeutic horseback riding they provide can make a profound difference in the lives of children with autism, Veterans battling PTSD and individuals with physical disabilities. See the healing bond between the animals and their handlers who together offer personalized support and solace to their riders. We’ll have an opportunity to meet the horses, participate in grooming and enjoy a barbecue-style lunch (barbeque pulled chicken, pork or vegetarian bean burger needed at time of booking) prepared at the ranch. This afternoon we’ll continue to downtown Oceanside and visit the California Surf Museum which chronicles the evolution of surfboards and wave-riding as well as California’s surf culture. Featuring a rare set of historical surfboards and amazing pieces of memorabilia spanning over more than 30 years, the museum is home to perhaps the world’s richest trove of surfing history. We top off a memorable day with an included doughnut from a craft doughnut and coffee shop famous for their fresh batches of original layered doughnuts featuring layers of buttery dough that is fried to be crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. This tour involves moderate walking.
Member Price: $129; Non-member Price: $139 • Depart: 8:30 a.m. • Return: 4:30 p.m.
Pageant of the Masters At Laguna Beach’s Festival of Arts
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
Enjoy an evening under the stars at this popular summer event acclaimed for its awe-inspiring theatrical celebration of tableaux vivants – “living pictures.” Celebrating its 92nd year, Pageant of the Masters is the crown jewel of Laguna Beach’s Festival of Arts and arguably one of the most unique productions in the world. You’ll be both amazed and enchanted by this theatrical masterpiece that features “art that lives and breathes” with live models coated in layers of body paint climbing into life-sized paintings and sculptures on the stage to recreate famous works of art. The “living artwork” becomes fully alive with sophisticated lighting, stage illusions, a full professional orchestra, live original narration, and multiple stages within the Irvine Bowl, a 2,600-seat outdoor amphitheater. The 2024 production, titled À La Mode: The Art of Fashion, will revisit some of history’s grandest spectacles and fashion trends, showcasing attire from royal courts to modern catwalks. Whether making an entrance or casting a spell, what people have worn through the ages has always been telling. Enjoy time at leisure prior to the show browsing the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show. Eat prior to departure, bring a picnic, or purchase food available on-site. Binoculars are recommended and available for rent on-site to help see detail on stage. Main tier-level seating.
Member Price: $129; Non-member Price: $139 • Depart: 6:00 p.m. • Return: 11:30 p.m.
Birds, Buddhas & Botanicals With Included Boxed Lunch & Ice Cream Treat
Thursday, September 5, 2024
This unique journey takes us to Carpinteria, the small seaside town south of Santa Barbara. We begin at Seaside Gardens, a 3-acre botanical wonderland where we’ll enjoy an included boxed lunch and time at leisure to explore 11 exquisite garden vignettes showcasing plants from around the world that thrive in this coastal climate. The locally-designed gardens include Asian, Australian, California native, Central/South American, grassland, Mediterranean, native wetland Bioswale, perennial/cottage, South African, succulent, and tropical themes. At the breathtaking Sacred Space, we’ll discover a sanctuary that was originally built in the late 1800’s as an early settler home. Home to several koi ponds, small waterfalls, statues and peaceful pavilions that act as meditation spaces, this sanctuary is filled beautiful treasures from all over the world and a boutique gift shop filled with beads, stones, books, teas, incense and more. This afternoon we’ll visit an exotic bird sanctuary that is home to over 50 stunning parrots. A guided tour will showcase this small but lush tropical garden that is a haven for unwanted and displaced companion parrots. Witnessing these majestic creatures converse amongst themselves creates an otherworldly experience! We’ll top off a memorable day with an included ice cream treat at a locals’ favorite. This tour involves moderate walking over uneven terrain.
Member Price: $129; Non-member Price $139 • Depart: 8:00 a.m. • Return: 7:30 p.m.
Solvang Danish Days
Saturday, September 21, 2024
Live like a Viking and escape to the Santa Ynez Valley for a total Danish immersion experience at the 87th annual Solvang Danish Days, California’s premier Danish heritage festival. This treasured celebration of Danish heritage, old-world customs and pageantry takes place in the heart of Solvang, the quaint “Danish Capital of America” which features old-world architectural styles and flower-lined streets to create a charming, walkable village. The fun-loving and boisterous Danish Days Parade features the Solvang Village Band atop the Carlsberg Beer Wagon, floats, equestrians, Village Dancers and more. The Elverhoj Museum of History & Art hosts Living History Days featuring artisans, craftspeople, storytellers and interactive activities. Visit the Old World Artisans Marketplace for demonstrations and artisanal hand-crafted items for sale including woodworking, papercutting, rosemaling, fabric art, jewelry, pottery, and Scandinavian arts & crafts. Listen to Denmark’s favorite author, Hans Christian Andersen, tell tales of his homeland. Visit the Viking Beer & Wine Garden to purchase your favorite adult beverage. We’ll have approximately 5 hours at leisure to attend the various festival events, browse the charming shops and boutiques that offer imported European wares and collectibles, and enjoy lunch on your own at the variety of restaurants. For a true taste of Danish culture, visit the authentic bakeries that offer delicious butter cookies, Danish rolls, aebleskivers, cream puffs and other traditional Danish pastries. Festival attractions and events subject to change. An additional departure point (enroute to the destination) may be added to guarantee this departure.
Member Price: $99; Non-member Price $109 • Depart: 8:00 a.m. • Return: 7:30 p.m.
HUNTINGTON BEACH COUNCIL ON AGING / SENIOR CENTER IN CENTRAL PARK
(714) 374-1572 - 18041 Goldenwest Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
SEATING
- Please let us know if you need special accommodations or if any mobility or assistive devices are utilized.
DEPARTURE/ RETURN INFORMATION
Huntington Beach Central Library (HBCL): 7111 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach, CA 92648
- Return times are approximate
RESERVING SPACE
- The only way to reserve space is in person at the Senior Center in Central Park at the Travel and Resource Room
- Payment may be made in person (cash, check, Visa, Mastercard or Discover)
- Make checks payable to HBCOA
CANCELLATIONS/REFUNDS
- There is 30 day notifcation deadline to receive a refund, and no refund allowed for cancellation within 30 days of a tour unless your space can be re-sold.
Travel, Trips & Tours Photo Gallery
Getty Villa and Gladstones Restaurant, June 6th, 2024
Fifty-three guests enjoyed lunch at Gladstones Restaurant in Malibu Beach. Entrée choices were befitting to the surf and turf venue and the seating window views were spectacular even with June gloom! The next stop was the Getty Villa, a spectacular indoor and outdoor museum. The museum is filled with Greek and Roman art, fountains, and aromatic gardens depicting the Villa dei Papiri in Naples, Italy which was buried by the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Some guests chose a docent led Garden Tour, an Architecture Tour, or decided to browse leisurely on our own.
Nethercutt & North Woods, May 25th, 2024
The bus arrived at the North Woods Inn restaurant located in San Gabriel, CA, where guests were greeted with a large exterior cabin like façade leading into a warm woodsy interior containing features such as stained glass, oil paintings, period lamps, and, of course, a huge stuffed bear, followed by a leisurely lunch.
And later the group enjoyed the docent-led tour of the Nethercutt Collection/Museum established in 1956 by J.B. Nethercutt, the co-founder of Merle Norman Cosmetics. Guests were led through five floors containing various collections including rebuilt classic cars, which had won the annual prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance “Best of Show” awards, early 20th century hood ornaments, antique furniture, and rare musical instruments.
A Whale-y Fun Day on May 9th, 2024
The group travelled by bus to San Pedro and the 22nd St. Landing Seafood Grill & Bar and enjoyed a three-course lunch. After the meal, they continued to Long Beach Harbor and boarded a custom-built, state-of-the-art, high-speed catamaran for a three-hour whale watching cruise in the stunning stretch of water off the southern California coast. Much to their delight, they encountered about a dozen fin whales, the second largest whale, breaching the waters, spouting and diving, a pod of 50+ dolphins surrounding the boat, jumping and chasing alongside, several California sea lions, and a variety of sea birds.
Art Masters & Mariachis Tour on April 26th, 2024
Curt, a Los Angeles Guide, joined the bus in Huntington Beach and led the group on a tour through the Art and Culture area of Los Angeles (LA.). He provided interesting L.A facts and history as the bus traveled from there to the Broad Museum. There, the group learned about the Andy Warhol, Roy Liechtenstein, and other artist works that are on display at The Broad. The evening ended at the popular Casa Sanchez restaurant for dinner and Mariachi entertainment. It was an excellent show, and a few birthdays in the group were recognized.
Descanso Gardens Norton Simon Museum tour on April 11, 2024
The Descanso Gardens tour included a delightful one-hour docent- led tour throughout their rose garden, redwood forest, and breathtaking Japanese garden. After the tour, the bus headed for the next stop the Norton Simon Museum, where they viewed the museum’s features of over 100 pieces by Edgar Degas and other works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Gaugin.
Irish tour on March 16, 2024
Travelers celebrated St. Patrick’s Day at the Almonsor Court in Alhambra. They enjoyed the Colorful Songs Revue cast performance, a traditional Irish meal of corned beef and cabbage, and a program of Irish singing and stories about life and times in Ireland.
Warner Brothers Tour February 29, 2024
The Warner Brothers Studio tour experience was expansive and included many displays, a video history of the Studios, a tram backstage tour, costumes, and other interactive experiences. The group was delighted to enter an empty sound stage to learn about films/TV shows that were filmed there.
Donna, Diana & Diamond February 13th, 2024
On a chilly morning, guests boarded the bus to Palm Springs for a stop at Hadley Fruit Orchards, where they purchased some goodies and enjoyed a date shake. The bus then drove to the Palm Springs Camelot Theatre/Cultural Center for the musical tribute to Diana Ross, Donna Summers, and Neal Diamond. A good time was had by all!
Wheel of Fortune Live on January 25th, 2024
A group of excited seniors enjoyed lunch and shopping at the Original Farmers Market prior to going to the Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, where they sat in the studio audience watching 3 episodes of the Wheel of Fortune being taped and the behind-the-scenes action that goes into taping a game show.
135th Rose Parade Tour on January 1, 2024.
Upon arrival at the 135th Tournament of Roses Parade grounds, fifty passengers were enthralled watching a spectacular fly-over by the Air Force B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber. Once seated, the constant stream of stunning displays did not disappoint as the “Celebrating a World of Music” focused parade began with inspiring music from the Marine Corps marching band followed shortly by an endless array of remarkable floats. A good time was had by all.
Griffith Obserbatory including Planetarium Show
On a rainy November day, a small group enjoyed the bus ride to Los Angeles and sights in LA. The first stop was at Philippe The Original where the group enjoyed a delicious French dipped sandwich, which was followed by many planetary activities at the renowned Griffith Observatory. Regardless of the rainy weather this was a great tour, including the Planetarium Show!
Farmers Market, Monastery of Angles and LA’s Art District
A small group boarded the bus headed for the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles. Curt, a professional LA tour guide, joined the group and shared plenty of anecdotes and back stories about each tasting in the heart of the Market. The guests also enjoyed more tastings at the hidden Monastery of Angels and in downtown Los Angeles, before the final stop at LA’s Art District. A delicious day indeed.
USC Campus, Dodger's Stadium and Philippe’s Restaurant
This tour began at the USC campus, where the step-on-guide, Curt Tucker joined the group. Curt talked about the life and legacy of Jackie Robinson and his history playing football for UCLA. The next stop was at Dodger Stadium for a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium. Curt shared the history of how the Dodgers moved from Brooklyn to LA and the property for the stadium was acquired. The group enjoyed a tour of the renovated centerfield plaza, pavilions, and other restricted areas including the Vin Scully Press Box, a visit to the field where to sit in the Dodger dugout, and lunch at Philippe’s Restaurant.
Streets of Hollywood:East West Recording Studio, Mel's Diner and Grammy Museum
Twenty-two passengers welcomed Good Times’ professional tour guide Jasmin, a former actress before boarding the bus ride to Los Angeles. Riding through the streets of Hollywood, Jasmin shared stories about her Hollywood experiences. First stop was at the East West Recording Studios on Sunset Blvd where guests enjoyed a guided tour through various recording studios learning history and the famous music stars who had recorded there. Back on the bus Jasmin shared more stories and historical events in Hollywood’s history on route to a lunch stop at Mel’s Diner and a self-guided tour at the Grammy Museum.
Salk Institute for Biological Studies, Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial and the Birch Aquarium
The Salk and Sea tour began in San Diego with a visit to the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, then a visit to the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial featuring veterans plaques from the Revolutionary War up to the current War on Terror, followed by a final stop at the Birch Aquarium. This tour was a very interesting, enlightening, and learning opportunity.
Del Mar Thoroughbred Track and Clubhouse
Thirty-eight passengers set off for the iconic Del Mar Thoroughbred Club to enjoy an exciting day at the races. The group enjoyed a motorcoach ride south along the coast to the racetrack admiring views of the Pacific Ocean along the route. Upon arrival, guests made their way to the Clubhouse section and soon bets were placed and many winners emerged-experienced and beginners alike.
Pisa Italy Tour, St. Peter's Italian Catholic Church and the Forest Lawn Memorial Park
On July 20th, 46 guests were excited and engaged throughout the Pisa Italy tour with professional local guide Curt Tucker. This tour highlighted the Italian-inspired treasures around Los Angeles and emphasized the incredible influence that Italian culture has had on the city’s architecture, fashion, art, food, and cinema. Venues visited included St. Peter’s Italian Catholic Church, lunch at the San Antonio Winery’s Restaurant, the Italian American Museum, and St. Andrew’s Church. At Forest Lawn Memorial Park, guests were enthralled seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s stained-glass masterpiece The Last Supper, and Michelangelo’s most famous sculptures. This was a very unique excursion enjoyed by one and all.
Broad Museum, Angels Flight Railway and the Grand Central Market
Fifty-six seniors traveled to downtown Los Angeles for an adventure. They enjoyed browsing around the Broad Museum’s contemporary art collection, riding on the Angels Flight Railway, having lunch at the legendary Grand Central Market, and exploring the vast collections of books, records, and art at the eccentric Last Bookstore.
Reagan Library and Museum
On June 17, seniors were given five hours of leisure time at the Reagan Library and Museum to enjoy lunch, browse the permanent exhibits including the torn down Berlin Wall, the Air Force One Pavilion, and pay respects at the Reagan’s final resting place, among other library holdings. The group also had a unique opportunity to browse the traveling exhibit, “Auschwitz: Not Long Ago. Not far away”, making its only appearance on the West Coast.
Coronado Island and the Hotel Del Coronado
A group of seniors spent a lovely day including leisure time for lunch and shopping on Coronado Island. They visited the Coronado Museum of History and then enjoyed a guided tour at the legendary Hotel Del Coronado. On the bus ride home, the group was treated to the DVD movie “Some Like It Hot”, which included some scenes filmed at the Hotel Del.
A good time was had by all!
Foursquare Heritage Center, Angelus Temple, Biltmore Hotel, Los Angeles Central Library and the LA City Hall
Los Angeles during “L.A.’s Roaring 20s” tour guests were regaled with plenty of intriguing stories April 20th. Tour Guide Curt expertly guided the tour bus driver through downtown Los Angeles, with visits to the Foursquare Heritage Center, Angelus Temple, and parsonage founded by renowned evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson.
Moving on to lunch at the historic Biltmore Hotel, guests marveled at its elaborate painted and carved ceilings. The next stop after passing iconic Los Angeles neighborhood landmarks were visits to the Los Angeles Central Library and City Hall. Ending with a flourish, the Roaring 20s time-travel escapade wrapped up with a stop at historic Philippe’s, known for its French Dip sandwich.
A perfect ending to a story-filled day.
Wildlife Learning Conservation Center, Reyes Winery and theLoaf Japanese Bakery & Cafe
On Friday, May 19 a group of seniors set out for an adventurous Mystery Tour. The Tour leaders kept the group guessing about three destinations included in this tour until the bus pulled up at each venue, including the Wildlife Learning and Conservation Center in Sylmar, Reyes Winery on Main in Santa Clarita, and the nearby Loaf Japanese Bakery & Cafe.This was an excursion full of surprises and mystery.
Paseo Nuevo's Shopping Center and International Orchid Show
During a raining and chilly day on March 10th, a group of 40 seniors boarded the bus in Huntington Beach headed to Santa Barbara. Despite the bad weather, guests enjoyed leisure time to shop at Paseo Nuevo’s outdoor shopping center and have lunch before viewing the world’s most exotic flowers at the 75th annual International Orchid Show.
Frank Lloyd Wright's Hollyhock House
On the cold and rainy February 24th morning, seniors boarded the bus in Huntington Beach bound to Los Angeles for a visit at the historic Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House. During a tour of the facilty, guests gained important information from docents about the architectural details of the beautiful Hollyhock House.
Rose Parade 134th in Pasadena
On the chilly January 2nd morning, seniors sat in the grandstand watching in awe the majesty of the 134th Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena.
