The Posh Beach Lover: Laguna Beach<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"Laguna](\"https:\/\/www.travelocity.com\/inspire\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/laguna-beach-1024x640.jpg\")
Laguna Beach<\/p><\/div>\n
Just an hour or so south of LA is the California \u201cRiviera,\u201d the highlight of which is Laguna Beach. Located in Orange County, this SoCal coastal town is charming and chic with high-end boutiques, five-star accommodations and plenty of gourmet restaurants. Sip champagne while watching the sunset at Studio<\/strong> restaurant, visit one of the many art galleries on Coast Highway or lounge poolside. Skip overcrowded Main Beach and head to Treasure Island Beach<\/strong>, a public beach at Montage Laguna Beach (see below).<\/p>\nSTAY: Montage Laguna Beach<\/strong>
\nFeel the ocean breeze from the balcony of a luxury guest room at Montage Laguna Beach<\/strong><\/a>. The property includes an Instagram-worthy pool, fine seaside dining, and an elegant indoor\/outdoor spa featuring coastal treatments.<\/p>\nDistance from Los Angeles: Approx. 45 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\nThe Mindful Hiker: Ojai<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"Ojai](\"https:\/\/www.travelocity.com\/inspire\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/ojai-valley-inn-1024x640.jpg\")
Photo courtesy of Ojai Valley Inn<\/p><\/div>\n
The spiritual-focused town of Ojai is bordered by Los Padres National Forest, which makes for great hiking. Situated just an hour inland from Ventura, Ojai is the perfect place to stop and calm your existential angst. Meditate on a rock in the middle of San Antonio Creek, listen to the call of the birds while hiking through the chaparral, browse for the perfect crystal in the New Age shops along Ojai Avenue<\/strong>, or dine on a farm-to-table vegan meal at a local eatery like AZU Restaurant and Ojai Valley Brewery<\/strong>.<\/p>\nSTAY: Ojai Valley Inn<\/strong>
\nAfter a day of exploring the serene outdoor environment in Ojai, treat yourself to a night (or two) of pampering at the AAA Five Diamond Ojai Valley Inn<\/strong><\/a>. Enjoy a meal at one of the eight on-property restaurants, take a dip in one of the three pools, enjoy a curated shopping experience at the boutiques, or experience one of the many resort activities such as beekeeping and honey tasting, soap making or macram\u00e9.<\/p>\nDistance from Los Angeles: Approx. 83 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\nThe Outdoor Adventurer: Lake Arrowhead<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"Lake](\"https:\/\/www.travelocity.com\/inspire\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/lake-arrowhead-1024x640.jpg\")
Lake Arrowhead<\/p><\/div>\n
Placid Lake Arrowhead is surrounded by the rugged San Bernardino Mountains, making it a naturalist\u2019s heaven. This quaint mountain town offers plenty of outdoor activities, from fishing and cycling to skiing and boating. Get in touch with Mother Nature whether hiking a mountain or paddling a kayak. Don\u2019t forget to pack your camera\u2014the flora and fauna are photo worthy\u2014and the fresh mountain air will be a welcome retreat from smog-laden LA.<\/p>\n
STAY: Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa<\/strong>
\nOnly an hour-and-a-half from LA, the Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa<\/strong><\/a> is a secluded luxury mountain retreat. Relax by a roaring fire pit, enjoy fine dining overlooking the lake, indulge in a pine-scented massage at the spa, or take a stroll along the private beach.<\/p>\nDistance from Los Angeles: Approx. 80 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\nThe City Slicker: San Diego<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"San](\"https:\/\/www.travelocity.com\/inspire\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/pacific-beach-1024x640.jpg\")
Pacific Beach<\/p><\/div>\n
Trade in LA sprawl for San Diego’s eclectic neighborhoods. From the hip Gaslamp Quarter to festive Little Italy and the beaches of Coronado, San Diego has it all. Climb the California Tower<\/strong> in Balboa Park, take a surfing lesson in Pacific Beach<\/strong>, go for an electric bike ride along Mission Bay<\/strong>, or eat your heart out (Kettner Exchange<\/strong> and Herb & Wood<\/strong> are our current faves). Whatever you\u2019re in the mood for, this city keeps you on your toes.<\/p>\nSTAY: Pendry San Diego<\/strong>
\nWith chic d\u00e9cor, great city views, a rooftop pool, six unique dining options and an exquisite spa, Pendry San Diego<\/strong><\/a> is the perfect home base from which to explore San Diego. Located in downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter, there is no shortage of walkable activities such as shopping, dining and nightlife.<\/p>\nDistance from Los Angeles: Approx. 120 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\nThe Wine Enthusiast: Temecula<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"Temucula](\"https:\/\/www.travelocity.com\/inspire\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Temecula-1024x640.jpg\")
Temucula<\/p><\/div>\n
Hop in your car and in less than two hours you\u2019ll be in the rolling hills of Temecula Valley Wine Country. What better way to spend a weekend? Take a stroll among the vineyards and sip full-bodied wine at a local vintner like Briar Rose Winery<\/strong> (which replicates Snow White’s cottage), pick up some snacks at the Farmer\u2019s Market<\/strong>, shop for artisan crafts in the Historic Old Town<\/strong>, and drink more wine. It doesn\u2019t get much better. Well, actually a horse-drawn carriage ride through a vineyard or a hot-air balloon ride could kick things up a notch. Visiting more than one winery? Jump on the Winery Hopper<\/strong>.<\/p>\nSTAY: Ponte Vineyard Inn<\/strong>
\nThe boutique Ponte Vineyard Inn<\/strong><\/a> offers vineyard views, wine tasting (of course!) at on-site Ponte Winery, a semi Olympic-sized pool, tours of the 300-acre ranch, and plenty of locally inspired, seasonal menu items at their restaurants. Whether you\u2019re looking for a romantic escape or a girls’ weekend away, this is the spot to relax and indulge. Want to check out some other wineries nearby? Stop by the Wiens Family Cellars or Avensole Winery.<\/p>\nDistance from Los Angeles: Approx. 85 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\nThe Environmentalist: Channel Islands<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"Channel](\"https:\/\/www.travelocity.com\/inspire\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/channel-islands-national-park-1024x640.jpg\")
Channel Islands<\/p><\/div>\n
The Channel Islands National Park, located off the coast of Ventura, offers a glimpse at unusual birds, sea life, and vegetation. Activities on the five islands range from kayaking or guided hikes to tide pooling or wildflower viewing. The boat ride to the closest islands, Anacapa<\/strong> and Santa Cruz<\/strong>, takes about an hour. Stop by the interpretive centers upon arrival for an orientation before heading out to explore. There are no shops, restaurants, electricity or transportation on the islands\u2026it\u2019s all about nature. Good time to take a break from your cell phone.<\/p>\nSTAY: Embassy Suites by Hilton Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort<\/strong>
\nThe Embassy Suites by<\/strong> Hilton Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort<\/strong><\/a> is an all-suite oceanfront resort located in Oxnard, not far from the Oxnard Harbor where you\u2019ll catch the boat to the Channel Islands. Before or after your island escapade enjoy high-end resort amenities including complimentary, cooked-to-order breakfast and evening wine and cheese reception, access to golf courses, a variety of treatments at the on-property spa, tennis and basketball courts, and heated pool.<\/p>\nDistance from Los Angeles: Approx. 60 miles<\/em> to Oxnard<\/strong><\/p>\nThe Dreamer: Santa Barbara<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"Santa](\"https:\/\/www.travelocity.com\/inspire\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/santa-barbara-1024x640.jpg\")
Santa Barbara<\/p><\/div>\n
Pinched between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, Spanish-tinged Santa Barbara offers activities such as wining and gallery hopping in the post-industrial Funk Zone (don’t miss Les Marchands<\/strong>), shopping and dining on State Street (check out Sama Sama Kitchen<\/strong>), surfing and standup paddleboarding, unreal sunsets at Butterfly Beach<\/strong> or taking in some history by visiting the Mission<\/strong>.<\/p>\nSTAY: The Upham Hotel<\/strong>
\nHailed as one of the oldest hotels in California, the Upham Hotel<\/strong><\/a> offers a rich history with contemporary amenities. Conveniently located near downtown, the classy and comfortable hotel offers custom d\u00e9cor in each of its 50 rooms, milk and cookies at bedtime, a beautiful garden setting and cottage or inn accommodations.<\/p>\nDistance from Los Angeles: Approx. 90 miles<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\nThe Stargazer: Joshua Tree National Park<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"Joshua](\"https:\/\/www.travelocity.com\/inspire\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Joshua-Tree-National-Park-1024x640.jpg\")
Joshua Tree National Park<\/p><\/div>\n
The picturesque desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park<\/strong> draws visitors to discover its hiking trails, geological formations, star-filled skies and rock-climbing opportunities. While wandering the desert pathways, keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, archeological petroglyphs, turkey vultures, coyotes and, of course, Joshua trees. While in the area, stop by the Integratron<\/strong> for a sound bath and La Copine<\/strong> for dinner, explore the canyon landscapes and wildlife at Big Morongo Canyon Preserve and look upward at Sky’s the Limit observatory and Nature Center.<\/p>\nSTAY: Pioneertown Motel<\/strong>
\nWhat says desert more than a rustic \u201cghost town?\u201d Pioneertown was once a set for 1940’s Western movies and the Pioneertown Motel<\/strong><\/a> served as accommodations for the actors. It has now been restored to a quaint and rustic one-of-a-kind motel with Western town facades. Have dinner and listen to live music at Pappy and Harriet\u2019s Pioneertown Palace where Sir Paul McCartney once played an impromptu show.<\/p>\nDistance from Los Angeles: Approx. 130 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\nThe Culture Vulture: Solvang<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Laguna Beach<\/p><\/div>\n
Just an hour or so south of LA is the California \u201cRiviera,\u201d the highlight of which is Laguna Beach. Located in Orange County, this SoCal coastal town is charming and chic with high-end boutiques, five-star accommodations and plenty of gourmet restaurants. Sip champagne while watching the sunset at Studio<\/strong> restaurant, visit one of the many art galleries on Coast Highway or lounge poolside. Skip overcrowded Main Beach and head to Treasure Island Beach<\/strong>, a public beach at Montage Laguna Beach (see below).<\/p>\n STAY: Montage Laguna Beach<\/strong> Distance from Los Angeles: Approx. 45 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Photo courtesy of Ojai Valley Inn<\/p><\/div>\n The spiritual-focused town of Ojai is bordered by Los Padres National Forest, which makes for great hiking. Situated just an hour inland from Ventura, Ojai is the perfect place to stop and calm your existential angst. Meditate on a rock in the middle of San Antonio Creek, listen to the call of the birds while hiking through the chaparral, browse for the perfect crystal in the New Age shops along Ojai Avenue<\/strong>, or dine on a farm-to-table vegan meal at a local eatery like AZU Restaurant and Ojai Valley Brewery<\/strong>.<\/p>\n STAY: Ojai Valley Inn<\/strong> Distance from Los Angeles: Approx. 83 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Lake Arrowhead<\/p><\/div>\n Placid Lake Arrowhead is surrounded by the rugged San Bernardino Mountains, making it a naturalist\u2019s heaven. This quaint mountain town offers plenty of outdoor activities, from fishing and cycling to skiing and boating. Get in touch with Mother Nature whether hiking a mountain or paddling a kayak. Don\u2019t forget to pack your camera\u2014the flora and fauna are photo worthy\u2014and the fresh mountain air will be a welcome retreat from smog-laden LA.<\/p>\n STAY: Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa<\/strong> Distance from Los Angeles: Approx. 80 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Pacific Beach<\/p><\/div>\n Trade in LA sprawl for San Diego’s eclectic neighborhoods. From the hip Gaslamp Quarter to festive Little Italy and the beaches of Coronado, San Diego has it all. Climb the California Tower<\/strong> in Balboa Park, take a surfing lesson in Pacific Beach<\/strong>, go for an electric bike ride along Mission Bay<\/strong>, or eat your heart out (Kettner Exchange<\/strong> and Herb & Wood<\/strong> are our current faves). Whatever you\u2019re in the mood for, this city keeps you on your toes.<\/p>\n STAY: Pendry San Diego<\/strong> Distance from Los Angeles: Approx. 120 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Temucula<\/p><\/div>\n Hop in your car and in less than two hours you\u2019ll be in the rolling hills of Temecula Valley Wine Country. What better way to spend a weekend? Take a stroll among the vineyards and sip full-bodied wine at a local vintner like Briar Rose Winery<\/strong> (which replicates Snow White’s cottage), pick up some snacks at the Farmer\u2019s Market<\/strong>, shop for artisan crafts in the Historic Old Town<\/strong>, and drink more wine. It doesn\u2019t get much better. Well, actually a horse-drawn carriage ride through a vineyard or a hot-air balloon ride could kick things up a notch. Visiting more than one winery? Jump on the Winery Hopper<\/strong>.<\/p>\n STAY: Ponte Vineyard Inn<\/strong> Distance from Los Angeles: Approx. 85 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Channel Islands<\/p><\/div>\n The Channel Islands National Park, located off the coast of Ventura, offers a glimpse at unusual birds, sea life, and vegetation. Activities on the five islands range from kayaking or guided hikes to tide pooling or wildflower viewing. The boat ride to the closest islands, Anacapa<\/strong> and Santa Cruz<\/strong>, takes about an hour. Stop by the interpretive centers upon arrival for an orientation before heading out to explore. There are no shops, restaurants, electricity or transportation on the islands\u2026it\u2019s all about nature. Good time to take a break from your cell phone.<\/p>\n STAY: Embassy Suites by Hilton Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort<\/strong> Distance from Los Angeles: Approx. 60 miles<\/em> to Oxnard<\/strong><\/p>\n Santa Barbara<\/p><\/div>\n Pinched between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, Spanish-tinged Santa Barbara offers activities such as wining and gallery hopping in the post-industrial Funk Zone (don’t miss Les Marchands<\/strong>), shopping and dining on State Street (check out Sama Sama Kitchen<\/strong>), surfing and standup paddleboarding, unreal sunsets at Butterfly Beach<\/strong> or taking in some history by visiting the Mission<\/strong>.<\/p>\n STAY: The Upham Hotel<\/strong> Distance from Los Angeles: Approx. 90 miles<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n Joshua Tree National Park<\/p><\/div>\n The picturesque desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park<\/strong> draws visitors to discover its hiking trails, geological formations, star-filled skies and rock-climbing opportunities. While wandering the desert pathways, keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, archeological petroglyphs, turkey vultures, coyotes and, of course, Joshua trees. While in the area, stop by the Integratron<\/strong> for a sound bath and La Copine<\/strong> for dinner, explore the canyon landscapes and wildlife at Big Morongo Canyon Preserve and look upward at Sky’s the Limit observatory and Nature Center.<\/p>\n STAY: Pioneertown Motel<\/strong> Distance from Los Angeles: Approx. 130 miles<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n
\nFeel the ocean breeze from the balcony of a luxury guest room at Montage Laguna Beach<\/strong><\/a>. The property includes an Instagram-worthy pool, fine seaside dining, and an elegant indoor\/outdoor spa featuring coastal treatments.<\/p>\nThe Mindful Hiker: Ojai<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\nAfter a day of exploring the serene outdoor environment in Ojai, treat yourself to a night (or two) of pampering at the AAA Five Diamond Ojai Valley Inn<\/strong><\/a>. Enjoy a meal at one of the eight on-property restaurants, take a dip in one of the three pools, enjoy a curated shopping experience at the boutiques, or experience one of the many resort activities such as beekeeping and honey tasting, soap making or macram\u00e9.<\/p>\nThe Outdoor Adventurer: Lake Arrowhead<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\nOnly an hour-and-a-half from LA, the Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa<\/strong><\/a> is a secluded luxury mountain retreat. Relax by a roaring fire pit, enjoy fine dining overlooking the lake, indulge in a pine-scented massage at the spa, or take a stroll along the private beach.<\/p>\nThe City Slicker: San Diego<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\nWith chic d\u00e9cor, great city views, a rooftop pool, six unique dining options and an exquisite spa, Pendry San Diego<\/strong><\/a> is the perfect home base from which to explore San Diego. Located in downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter, there is no shortage of walkable activities such as shopping, dining and nightlife.<\/p>\nThe Wine Enthusiast: Temecula<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\nThe boutique Ponte Vineyard Inn<\/strong><\/a> offers vineyard views, wine tasting (of course!) at on-site Ponte Winery, a semi Olympic-sized pool, tours of the 300-acre ranch, and plenty of locally inspired, seasonal menu items at their restaurants. Whether you\u2019re looking for a romantic escape or a girls’ weekend away, this is the spot to relax and indulge. Want to check out some other wineries nearby? Stop by the Wiens Family Cellars or Avensole Winery.<\/p>\nThe Environmentalist: Channel Islands<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\nThe Embassy Suites by<\/strong> Hilton Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort<\/strong><\/a> is an all-suite oceanfront resort located in Oxnard, not far from the Oxnard Harbor where you\u2019ll catch the boat to the Channel Islands. Before or after your island escapade enjoy high-end resort amenities including complimentary, cooked-to-order breakfast and evening wine and cheese reception, access to golf courses, a variety of treatments at the on-property spa, tennis and basketball courts, and heated pool.<\/p>\nThe Dreamer: Santa Barbara<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\nHailed as one of the oldest hotels in California, the Upham Hotel<\/strong><\/a> offers a rich history with contemporary amenities. Conveniently located near downtown, the classy and comfortable hotel offers custom d\u00e9cor in each of its 50 rooms, milk and cookies at bedtime, a beautiful garden setting and cottage or inn accommodations.<\/p>\nThe Stargazer: Joshua Tree National Park<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\nWhat says desert more than a rustic \u201cghost town?\u201d Pioneertown was once a set for 1940’s Western movies and the Pioneertown Motel<\/strong><\/a> served as accommodations for the actors. It has now been restored to a quaint and rustic one-of-a-kind motel with Western town facades. Have dinner and listen to live music at Pappy and Harriet\u2019s Pioneertown Palace where Sir Paul McCartney once played an impromptu show.<\/p>\nThe Culture Vulture: Solvang<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Solvang](\"https:\/\/www.travelocity.com\/inspire\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/solvang-1024x640.jpg\")