By Maryann Hammers

Dana Point

Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari offers dolphin-watching and whale-watching adventures aboard a high-speed, catamaran sailboat. “During the summer, our area has more blue whales — the largest known animal to have ever lived — than anywhere else in the world. We also have the greatest density of dolphins per square mile than anywhere else. We see mega-pods of dolphins that number in the thousands,” says spokesperson Denielle Conley. Active duty servicemembers and their family members receive a year-round 20-percent discount off the regular $59 adult/$39 child rates. (That means the rate for active military is $47.20 for adults and $31.20 for children.) Those under age 2 are free. Call (949) 488-2828 to reserve, and ask for your military discount while booking.

Hollister

Joshua Inn Bed & Breakfast is a 1902 Victorian mansion, 30 miles from Pinnacles National Park in central California. The five-room inn features an outdoor fireplace, a hot tub, great breakfasts, and afternoon wine tastings from local artisan wineries. Servicemembers get a 15-percent discount. For information or reservations, call (831) 265-7829 (and request your discount at the time of booking).

Hollywood

The Hilton Garden Inn offers a flat military rate of $133 a night — a savings of at least $27 off the regular price. The hotel is walking distance to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Hollywood Bowl and just one metro train stop to Universal Studios. Call (323) 876-8600.

Lake Arrowhead

Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa is less than two hours from Los Angeles’ hustle-bustle, but it feels worlds’ away, with classic campsite activities such as guided nature hikes through the forest and sunset story-telling sessions, complete with roasting marshmallows. The resort offers a military rate starting at $96 for a mountain view room and a rate of $188 for a lake view room. Call (909) 336-1511 for more information.

San Diego

Photo courtesy of Andaz San Diego.

Andaz San Diego offers a $139 government rate for servicemembers. (The regular price starts at just over $200.) The 159-room urban escape in the trendy Gaslamp Quarter boasts 46-inch flat panel televisions, complimentary welcome beverages, free wireless Internet, local phone calls, and a mini-bar with non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. The hotel is known for its active nightlife, including a wine bar and rooftop lounge with pool, cabanas, and skyline views. For more information, call (619) 849-1234.

Yosemite

Ski free at Yosemite National Park’sBadger Pass Ski Area. California’s first ski resort offers veterans and active duty servicemembers a free lift ticket, free equipment rental, and group lessons. Immediate family members also receive half-off lift tickets, equipment rentals, and group lessons. Show your military ID at the Badger Pass Activities Desk to receive this offer. For more information, call (801) 559-4949. For 24-hour ski conditions, call (209) 372-1000.