Los Angeles is the city of dreams. Dreamers from all over the world travel here for the warm weather, the iconic scenery, and the chance to find some of that old Hollywood magic we all grew up watching in the movies. But the glitz and grind of Tinseltown can be overwhelming at times. So, a weekend trip to the countryside is just what you need to get a quick breather and clear your mind. Our handpicked list of weekend getaways from Los Angeles is perfect for your next trip. Even better, they’re all just a few hours drive from the City of Angels.
Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Spa & Golf Club, Carlsbad
Escape to the warmth and sunshine of the Carlsbad coast at Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. Indulge in coastal-chic guest rooms with panoramic views of the foothills, the lagoon, or the Pacific Ocean. Spend the day on the world-class golf course or tennis courts, and then cool down at the pool deck before indulging in a lavish spa treatment at their signature 15,000-square-foot oasis at sundown.
L’Horizon Resort & Spa, Palm Springs
Go back in time to the golden age of luxury at the L’Horizon Resort & Spa in Palm Springs. This adults-only resort offers true exclusivity and intimate comfort just minutes from downtown Palm Springs. Shop, dine, golf, hike, and lounge to your hearts’ content during your stay. Retire inside the peaceful private bungalows surrounded by 3 acres of manicured desert grounds and dramatic mountain backdrop frames.
The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows, Palm Springs
Like the L’Horizon, The Colony Palms is another Steve Hermann-designed property. This adults-only hotel is perfect for a romantic weekend getaway. Wake up recharged in any of the 57 luxe guest rooms and bungalows. Sink your teeth into classic Californian fare that has been re-imagined at The Colony Club. Later, you can take pleasure in an assortment of holistic spa treatments that will transform your spirit and fully complete your stay.
La Serena Villas, Palm Springs
Feeling a little spontaneous? Drive down to La Serena Villas in Palm Springs this weekend. Built in 1933, this hotel has that old country vibe and all the modern amenities of a 5-star hotel. Lounge, dine, drink, pamper, or even get married — with the stunning San Jacinto Mountains as your backdrop. La Serena is strictly ‘21 & Over’ with only two guests allowed per villa.
Holiday House Palm Springs
It’s easy to mistake Holiday House Palm Springs as your typical 5-star luxury hotel in Palm Springs. But once you enter the premises you will discover that it is not like the rest. In addition to luxurious dining options, it also offers an eclectic interior design featuring mid-century inspired elements with a whimsical edge. It’s like staying in an art + history museum set in a beautiful oasis.
San Luis Creek Lodge, San Luis Obispo
Not to be outdone, San Luis Creek Lodge combines contemporary farmhouse inspiration and Central Coast bohemian flair. The guest spaces boast plush amenities and custom furnishing by top LA-based artists and designers. Sleep in or soak in the surrounding area and community – San Luis Obispo is known for its fine dining, wine tasting, and the emerging tech and art scene.
Rosewood Miramar Beach, Santa Barbara
Located on the American Riviera, one of Southern California’s most exclusive coastlines, Rosewood Miramar Beach in Santa Barbara is a welcoming escape from the everyday bustle. It offers fine dining, fun activities, and fantastic spa services that will keep you busy all day. At the end of a long day, let the Pacific lull you to sleep in guest rooms that are airy, bright, and ultra-comfortable.
The Lodge at Torrey Pines, La Jolla
Down at La Jolla, The Lodge at Torrey Pines offers a luxury cabin appeal plus AAA Five Diamond world-class dining, a full-service spa, and unprecedented service. Fill your days with yoga classes, guided hiking tours, bike riding, golf, and beach time. Or simply unwind and recharge inside the elegant guest rooms and order some room service. The choice is entirely yours.
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, Southern California
Surrender your stress and rediscover your zen at Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas. This stunning seaside sanctuary is just steps from the beach and the delights of Encinitas. Chase your bliss: be it a day at the beach, open-air biplane tours around San Diego, lounging by the poolside, or relaxing in your spacious room with spectacular lagoon or ocean views.
Montage Laguna Beach
Remember the show Laguna Beach? This is your chance to make the luxury life of Lauren Conrad your reality at the Montage Laguna Beach Hotel. This beachfront sanctuary features two outdoor pool decks, a 20,000 square-foot spa, and three signature restaurants with spectacular views of the California coast. Go on adventures, laze around, or fall in love. Do everything you want under the sun.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
If you had to choose between a farm or the beach, which one would you pick? The Ranch makes the decision easier by combining the best of both worlds. Start your day with a hike then get brunch at Lost Pier Café. Enjoy the beach for a while, then drop by Sycamore Spa before dinner at The Harvest. Cap the night with live entertainment at The Porch. Then repeat.
Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano
Discover the history of San Juan at the luxurious Inn at the Mission Hotel. Get a crash course in centuries-old traditions and hospitality in between cooling off in the sparkling pool, getting a massage at the spa, and sampling the local flavors at their restaurants. Retreat inside hacienda-style accommodations filled with sleek features and superb amenities.
The Landsby, Solvang
Dubbed as the most innovative hotel in Santa Ynez Valley, The Landsby offers a central downtown location that is only a short stroll to delightful Danish bakeries. The hotel features a contemporary design with a hint of Scandinavian aesthetic that feels warm and inviting. There are 51 beautifully remodelled rooms to choose from. And dining means feasting on Danish cuisine and cocktails courtesy of Chef Beto Huizar.
The Surfrider Malibu
With a name like ‘The Surfrider’, guests will come expecting nothing short of an exciting stay. No worries, this 20-bedroom beachfront haven delivers the goods. Live your best California life with world-class waves, fresh food, and a roof deck to end all roof decks. Wherever you might be from, this ultimate beach house will make you feel like a complete and utter local.
Rancho Valencia, San Diego
This Spanish Colonial Hacienda in the heart of Rancho Santa Fe guarantees an absolutely exceptional experience with world-renowned dining, wellness, fitness, and recreational options. Hop aboard a sailboat, visit the wine country on a private helicopter, or simply take a picnic to the gorgeous beaches of North San Diego County. The possibilities are endless at the Resort and Spa Rancho Valencia.
Fairmont Grand Del Mar, San Diego
Take pleasure in the wide-open spaces, award-winning facilities, and five-star rated services of the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Located near the coast of Northern San Diego, the hotel has easy access to popular destinations like the La Jolla Sea Caves. Wherever your adventure takes you, at the end of the day you can relax in elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites with spectacular views of Southern California.
Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore, Santa Barbara
Last on our list is the legendary Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore. This 22-acre resort has been the hideaway for Hollywood’s elite since the 1930s. Once you’ve managed to recover from awe and astonishment, go for a stroll along Butterfly Beach or lounge poolside at Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club. You can also visit their award-winning spa and then enjoy refreshments at the Ty Lounge.
The City of Angels is a magical place where dreams can come true, but these best weekend getaways from Los Angeles have shown that the life we want is somewhere just a few hours outside the city.
Image credit: Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Spa & Golf Club
