Travel Escapes: Dots and dashes
Each year, the Maritime Radio Historical Society remembers July 12, 1999 – the date the last Morse code transmission was sent. At Point Reyes National Seashore, former radio station KPH welcome visitors July 12 during its annual “Night of Nights,” returning to the air for a commemorative broadcast. Visitors can tour the former RCA coast station during the broadcast, between 3 p.m. and 11: 45 p.m. The station is located at 17400 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, on the road to the Pt. Reyes Lighthouse in Inverness. It’s part of a series of events held nationwide. Admission is free. You can also stop by the nearby Point Reyes Lighthouse. For more information: nps.gov/pore
Common folk
What: The Humboldt Folklife Society presents its weeklong 37th annual festival starting July 11. Festivities include performances by local musicians spanning a variety of folk-based genres. Finale is an all-day free festival July 18.
When: July 11-18
Where: Varied city locations, including a park, brewery and theater
Cost: Varies by venue
Information: humboldtfolklife.org
Towering trees
What: Spend a day among the redwoods as Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods celebrates its 30th anniversary. This family-friendly event will feature hands-on nature lessons, horse-drawn carriage rides, as well as entertainment and food. (Activities will be offered in both English and Spanish.)
When: Noon to 5 p.m. July 11
Where: Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, 17000 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville
Cost: Free admission; parking fees may apply
Information: stewardscr.org
Busy birds
What: Always wanted to give birding a try? Take a guided tour through Tilden Nature Area and learn more about our high-flying friends.
When: 10:30 a.m. to noon July 11
Where: Tilden Nature Area Environmental Education Center, Berkeley
Cost: Free
Information: ebparks.org
Down under(ground)
What: Head underground and travel back in time at the historic Hazel-Atlas Mine. The 1930s-era restored silica mine will hold an “open house,” inviting visitors to explore on self-guided tours. Participants must be age 7 or older.
When: Noon to 4:30 p.m, July 12
Where: Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, 5175 Somerville Road, Antioch
Cost: Free; $5 parking
Information: ebparks.org
Castle exploration
What: Preston Castle, a former reform school, offers tours for visitors interested in exploring the majestic property. Admission fees benefit the Preston Castle Foundation, which is restoring the site.
When: Tours depart every 15 to 30 minutes from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., July 9 and 11.
Where: see prestoncastle.com for detailed directions
Cost: $10, adults and $5, children; free for children under 5
Bee staff
This story was originally published July 3, 2015 at 5:01 PM with the headline "Travel Escapes: Dots and dashes."