Weekender: LA Edition. Where to Escape LA for the Weekend
Sometimes city life requires a break to the outdoors. And nearly a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s never been more of a need to escape LA. Here are some of our favorite weekend getaways from Los Angeles.
Los Alamos, CA
The quintessential Hwy 101 road trip leads you to Skyview, Los Alamos. Mid-century roots meet rustic chic at this boutique Motel set on five acres overlooking the winelands of North Santa Barbara County. Originally built in the 1950s, Skyview emerged from a multi-million-dollar renovation with a style that pays homage to its history, but also includes all the needed modern conveniences. The 33 rooms offer comfort in the form of mid-century-inspired furnishings, warm hardwood flooring and accents, high-speed Wi-Fi, leather club chairs, down duvets, and locally made bath products, fireplaces, private patios, and outdoor showers.
The restored 1950s-era pool is always heated, ringed with striped loungers, and served by attendants, while lively Norman restaurant serves up modern comfort food, wine and cocktails. Venture into town on one of the complimentary bikes, where you can pick up bottles from local winemakers like Lo-Fi and Casa Dumetz, and enjoy a meal from critically acclaimed Bell’s, wine country’s most rightfully talked about restaurant.
(Two-hour drive from L.A.)
Cambria, CA
The Nina Freudenberger-designed White Water check all the boxes for modern California style: retro fireplaces, indigo dyed pillows, pebble mosaic countertops, and stunning ocean views. Enjoy the view of Cyprus tree-studded Moonstone Beach Drive, or take a walk down the two miles of coastal boardwalk, where you’ll find tide pools, surf breaks, and some of the most magical sunsets Cambria has to offer.
New Cuyama, CA
Cuyama Buckhorn, originally built as a roadside motel in 1952, has been revamped as an idyllic, down-home getaway surrounded by mountain ranges and fruit orchards. It is situated northeast of Santa Barbara and offers plenty of outdoor activities including a professional bocce ball court, pool tables, fire pits, and an outdoor pool and jacuzzi. Sitting on the Caliente Deck, guests can order the regional specialty: Santa Maria-style tri-tip sandwich smoked on red oak, while taking in the sunset over the Caliente Mountain range.
(Two-and-a-half-hour drive from L.A.)
Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico
Some weekends call for a quick trip south of the border. Just an hour drive from San Diego lies Mexico’s take on Napa. This best kept secret is a foodie and design lovers paradise. Stay at Bruma, the region’s most sophisticated boutique hotel. Its stunning design, acres of grapes, famed Fauna restaurant and wine fueled brunch spot, are everything you need. But do venture out to visit wineries and restaurants during your stay.
(Four-hour drive from L.A.)
Palm Springs, CA
Palm Springs has been a weekend hideaway for Angelenos since the Rat Pack days, and it’s no wonder. This colorful, boho chic desert escape offers everything you need to relax. L’Horizon is twenty-five bungalows with private patios and outdoor showers, spread out over three acres, which provides an exclusive and intimate experience for its guests.
Use the house cruisers to ride into town to visit Cheeky’s, Mr. Lyon’s, or Workshop.
(A two-hour drive from L.A.)
Safe Travels.