Best Weekend Getaways Near L.A.
If you are ready for a weekend away from the bright lights and busy-ness of Los Angeles, you are in luck. There are dozens of spectacular getaway locales within driving distance from the city. These are just five of our favorite spots for weekend trips near L.A.
A weekend trip to Palm Springs can immerse you in retro California vibes. Stay in one of the area’s quirky, colorful hotels like The Saguaro, making sure to spend time by the classic Palm Springs pool. Continue the kitch with a visit to Bootlegger Tiki’s 1950’s style bar. Finally visit the Lookout Lounge for a panoramic view of the city.
Historic Santa Barbara provides a more low-key weekend getaway. Take in some of the city’s Spanish influence with a tour and picnic at the Santa Barbara Mission. Do some whale watching from the Santa Barbara channel, and then wind down in the evening with some of the area’s finest wines. Be sure to stroll down State Street with its endless charming cafes & shops and numerous examples of inspired architecture.
Head to Big Bear Lake for a weekend immersed in nature. Go hiking in the San Bernardino Mountains, spend some quiet hours fishing the seven mile lake, or rent a canoe and pass the afternoon on the lake itself. Our personal favorite is horseback riding along the lake.
Ojai is full of hidden surprises for the weekend traveler. Take a leisurely stroll around Ojai Avenue to discover art galleries, boutiques, and even alfresco bookshops like Bart’s Books. Buy some fresh citrus from Friend’s Ranch or visit the area’s lush olive groves.
Instead of hopping in the car, maybe you would rather board a boat! Catalina Island is a 60 minute boat ride from the great Los Angeles area, and offers plenty to keep you entertained over the weekend. Take a zip-line eco tour of Descanso Beach, dine at some of the island’s amazing restaurants, and swim the crystal clear waters off the island’s beaches.
Take advantage of these wonderful getaway locations and enjoy everything Southern California has to offer. Which of these locales will be first on your list?
Ernie Carswell is one of the most accomplished and respected real estate agents in the industry today. With more than 25 years of experience in the business, Carswell’s extensive roster of satisfied clientele includes the likes of Fortune 500 CEOs, professional entertainers, top studio executives, leading attorneys, government officials, ambassadors, and foreign dignitaries.Carswell is one of the most admired names in luxury real estate and frequently receives accolades for his outstanding work in the press. He has been included in The Hollywood Reporter’s “Hollywood’s Top 25 Real Estate Agents” listing, in Variety’s feature on “Showbiz Real Estate Elite,” Billboard’s coverage of the “Top 15 Real Estate Agents Representing Musicians Today,” and was ranked in the top 100 Agents in the nation by the Wall Street Journal’s Real Trends.