Plan Your Next Weekend Getaway on The West Coast

Let’s face it, finding time off from work and life’s hustle and bustle for a week-long vacation is a part-time position in itself. #WeekendTrip and #DayTrip have surged 22 percent and 100 percent, respectively, on social media over the last 90 days, and we curated a few destinations on the West Coast where travelers can maximize time away.

Santa Barbara, California

A two-hour drive from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is the perfect getaway for the spontaneous traveler. Spend your time wine tasting at local vineyards and tasting rooms, kayak along the coast or set sail on a sunset cruise from the harbor. Travelers can easily turn their quick visit into a spontaneous stay with hotels offering third-night-free deals.

Carmel by the Sea, California

Carmel by the Sea serves as an ideal basecamp for a road trip along California’s Central Coast (now that Highway 1 is reopen). Visitors can take advantage of the breathtaking nature views, local marine life and in-town shopping.

Palm Springs + Joshua Tree, California

If you’re a desert road trip-type-of-person, a quick two-hour drive east from San Diego will have you in glorious Palm Springs. Unwind at The Spa at Séc-he, a 73,000-square-foot wellness retreat built around the desert’s mineral springs. Seeking more adventure? Joshua Tree is a one-hour drive away with various hiking trails and stargazing opportunities.

Mendocino, California

Mendocino is perfect for families looking to travel at a relaxed pace, where visitors can explore the area through Mendocino Headlands beaches and walking trails, and wander the tide pools at MacKerricher State Park.

Pasadena, California

Known as a classic getaway from Los Angeles, Pasadena’s alluring city vibe, along with its unique cultural and dining experiences, draws travelers. Spend the day strolling the streets of Old Pasadena, visit timeless exhibitions at Norton Simon Museum, and stop in at Asian bakeries such as Wa-Iro Bakery or Miopane for specially handcrafted baked goods.

San Francisco, California

Start off your visit with a stay at LUMA San Francisco, the first hotel in the Mission Bay neighborhood, offering premium access to the area’s top attractions. Sports lovers can take advantage of the Baseball by the Bay package, featuring a unique kayaking adventure through McCovey Cove to watch the game from the water before drinks and bites at the hotel’s rooftop lounge, Cavaña.