Big Sur, Waterfalls, Oakland
The first episode of California Now features a conversation with veteran travel host Samantha Brown, who traveled to Big Sur and Monterey Bay for her new PBS series, Samantha Brown’s Places to Love. Brown talks about the gorgeous views along Highway One and raves about the area’s iconic destinations but she also celebrates some of the hidden gems in the region and shares her insights about how to experience them.
Next, outdoor expert and author Ann Marie Brown offers essential advice on chasing waterfalls in the Golden State, including what to wear and where to go. Lastly, acclaimed chef Tanya Holland takes listeners on a tour of her restaurant, Brown Sugar Kitchen, and then shares her favorite places to see in the vibrant, diverse city of Oakland.
Guests
Samantha Brown, host of Samantha Brown’s Places to Love on PBS
Ann Marie Brown, author of California Waterfalls and many other books
Tanya Holland, Top Chef contestant, and Executive Chef of Brown Sugar Kitchen
Resources
Samantha Brown visited Monterey and Big Sur, situated along California’s Central Coast. Her stops included:
The Haute Enchilada, located in Moss Landing
Ann Marie Brown recommends the following California waterfalls:
Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America
McArthur-Burney Falls State Memorial Park
Tokopah Falls, an ideal option for families
Potem Creek Falls, a great place to find solitude
Rainbow Falls qualifies as the most unusual waterfall
Roaring River Falls is a wonderful wheelchair-accessible waterfall
And Alamere Falls is Ann Marie’s choice for the most romantic option
Tanya Holland shared some of her favorite places in Oakland and the East Bay:
San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge
Chez Panisse and Chez Panisse Cafe
About the Host
Soterios Johnson, formerly the local host of National Public Radio’s Morning Edition on radio station WNYC, moved from New York City to Davis, Calif., in 2016 and is just getting to know his surroundings. By combining his journalistic instincts with his personal curiosity, Johnson will use the California Now platform to develop a deeper understanding of his adopted home.