“Dear LA, it’s not you, it’s me!! …Okay, well maybe sometimes it’s you.”
Don’t get us wrong, we love ourselves some Los Angeles, but sometimes we all need a little staycation away from the chaos. I know what you’re thinking... many of us find it hard to squeeze free time into our schedule, how can we fit in a vacation?! Well, no worries! There are plenty of close, Southern California getaway spots that require minimal travel arrangements and time! We’ve done the research for you, now sit down with a cup of our refreshing Blueberry Acai Tea and visualize yourself at one of the four spots we chose. We hope you love them as much as we do!
MAJOR MOUNTAIN VIBES
OJAI
Located just an hour and a half north of Los Angeles, Ojai is a small town hidden away in Ventura County set in the valley of a local mountain range, bordering the Los Padres National Forest. If you want to escape the city and become one with nature, this is the place for you. But, don’t worry, if you don’t like roughing it, Ojai is also known for its ultra hipster resorts and others spots that don’t require getting too down and dirty.
Our recommendations:
Feelin’ like come nature? Visit the Ojai Meadows Preserve for a scenic hike!
Feelin’ like some nurture? Have a stay at the Ojai Valley Spa & Inn or the Caravan Outpost!
DE-STRESSING DESERT VIBES
PALM SPRINGS
There’s more to Palm Springs than what meets the eye, but let’s face it, that’s what draws people in. Located in the Sonoran Desert, Palm Springs, a popular vacation spot for the resort-lover, is also widely known for its Mid-Century Modern architecture. Enjoy shopping in the Palm Canyon Drive shopping district, a golf at one many courses, or a spa day. If you’re feeling outdoorsy there are plenty of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails to explore, as well!
Our recommendations:
Go horseback riding and take in a view at Smoke Tree Stables.
Need some R&R? Relax in style the Avalon Hotel, Palm Springs!
CHILL COASTAL VIBES
SANTA BARBARA
The beautiful coastal community about 95 miles north of LA, Santa Barbara, is known for its Spanish style architecture, unique shopping and local wines. Enjoy a bike ride along the beach, take a hike in the hills, or check out some cool local spots! Immerse yourself in this community and you’ll feel like a SB local in no time.
Our recommendations:
Wind down with some wine at Grassini Family Vineyards.
Take a hike to an abandoned castle (Knapp’s Castle).
Hit all the day and night hot spots in Downtown Santa Barbara!
INTRIGUING ISLAND VIBES
CATALINA ISLAND
Catalina Island, or Santa Catalina Island, is an island village with two harbors, southwest of Los Angeles. A popular weekend getaway spot, Catalina Island makes great day trip, too! For such a small island, there’s so many different things to see from all angles. Take a helicopter ride, set up a campsite, or join an educational outdoor adventure club. The possibilities are endless.
Our recommendations:
Learn about island ecology, geology and history with a tour!
Take a tour or ride to and from the mainland with IEX Helicopters!
Become an islander for the weekend and reserve a campsite on the island.
While it’s difficult to find time, it’s important to make time for rest and relaxation every once in awhile. The hustle and bustle of the city will remain the same, but you can feel brand new after a vacation.
