Some people actually go away for Memorial Day weekend. Traditionally, my family has stayed home to attend picnics and the annual Memorial Day commemorative service held at Bellevue Cemetary in Ontario. Several of my family members are buried at that lovely old cemetary and my stepfather plays in the Chaffey Community Show Band during the services.

But if you're aching for a getaway on the first three-day-weekend of the warm season, why not consider San Diego? The Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego is offering a fabulous Memorial Day week special: book two nights and get the third free, or stay longer and receive every third night free. This offer is good for a stay between May 23-May 29 and get this: No extra charge for pets (usually $30 per day).

The Manchester Grand Hyatt is on the Gaslamp Quarter's waterfront, right next to Seaport Village. It offers family activities such as ping-pong, foosball, tennis, basketball, and a huge waterfront pool desk. (The VIPs from the Red Bull Air races watched last week's race through San Diego Bay from the Manchester Grand pool deck.)

Another perfect Memorial Day getaway is Catalina Island. You can go from port to port on the Catalina Express in just about an hour. Check out the Catalina Island visitor's website for specials on passage and accommodation packages.

The weekend after Memorial Day I'll be attending Catalina's Catalina Flying Fish Festival. This is a first time event, celebrating the legendary flying fish that migrate to the waters around Catalina through the summer months. These long, slender fish put on shows for viewers--particularly at night when a light is flashed on the water.

The festival opens on Thursday night with A Taste of Avalon and continues with all kinds of fun and family friendly activities throughout the weekend. You can go for just a day on the speedy Catalina Express or stay for the weekend. Check out the website for a complete schedule of activities and accommodation options.

Maybe you want to head up to the mountains? Summer season kicks off in North Lake Tahoe Memorial Day Weekend with the 2nd Annual Opening Day at the Lake. This four-day special event begins Friday, May 23 and is comprised of festivities along the West Shore. Travelers attending Opening Day at the Lake can get an event passport stamped to qualify for numerous prizes and gift certificates. A complete list of Opening Day activities is here, while lodging and travel tips can be found on the North Lake Tahoe visitor's site.

Do you have ideas or traditions for celebrating Memorial Day? Share them with us in the comment section below.

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