Adventure-Ready Travel Guides for California & the American West
Hiking, coastal towns, road trips, and photography-led travel written from years on the trail.
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Latest Stories & Field Notes
Minta Travels is a photography-driven travel journal focused on hiking, coastal escapes, and road trips across California and the American West. Every guide is based on firsthand experience—from quiet winter trails to shoulder-season road trips designed to help you travel deeper, not faster.
- Pismo Beach Dunes: A Complete Guide to California’s Wildest Coastal Landscape
There are plenty of beautiful beaches along California’s Central Coast, but very few feel as raw, open, and unexpected as… - Yosemite Firefall 2026: Horsetail Fall Viewing & Photography Guide
Every February, Yosemite’s Horsetail Fall glows like lava. Planning to catch the Firefall in 2026? Here’s how to make the most of it. - Pismo Beach Pier: Classic Central Coast Views, Easy Walks & Sunset Magic
Discover everything you need to know about visiting Pismo Beach Pier, including what to see, where to park, and the best times of day and year to experience this iconic California landmark.
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Popular Guides
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Morro Bay State Park Ultimate Guide (By A Local) 2026
If you’re on the hunt for a slice of paradise along California’s Central Coast, Morro Bay State Park is calling your name.
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Kayaking Morro Bay | Unveiling the Best Spots on the Water
Kayaking Morro Bay feels as natural as taking a walk or riding a bike—it’s just part of daily life here.
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Best Morro Bay Restaurants | The Ultimate Guide (By A Local)
Morro Bay’s culinary landscape is a feast for the senses, with fresh seafood stealing the spotlight.
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Cambria Restaurants: 12 Best Places to Eat (Local Favorites)
Cambria might be a small coastal town, but its food scene is far from ordinary.
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Montana de Oro Tide Pools: A Tide Lover’s Guide to Exploring Nature
Montana de Oro tide pools, tucked along the rocky shores of the park, offer an intimate glimpse into the vibrant marine life that thrives along the California coast.
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Local’s Guide to Top 10 Montana de Oro Hikes
Montana de Oro State Park is one of my favorite parks in the California’s Central Coast for hiking.
Welcome to Minta Travels
Hi, I’m Basak — a travel writer and photographer based on California’s Central Coast.
For over a decade, I’ve explored California’s coastlines, forests, and deserts. Minta Travels is where I share photo-driven guides, detailed itineraries, and curated tips to help you discover unforgettable destinations across California and the American West.
From kayaking in Morro Bay to chasing fall colors in the Sierra or going off-grid in Utah, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
Start your next trip here, and don’t forget to subscribe for fresh guides and photo tips.
