Salt & Wind Travel

Southern California Resorts Worth A Road Trip

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Southern California is one of the best (literal) hot spots in the Golden State for a weekend escape so so we’re sharing some of our favorite Southern California resorts worth a road trip.

Of course, since these are all stateside, you don’t have to pack a passport to enjoy luxe accommodations, scenic spas, and world-class dining.

Southern California Resorts Worth A Road Trip

So, prep your bags for a holiday jaunt and stay where the sun is (almost) always shining. Listed from north to south (but all in Southern California) here are our picks:

Ojai: Ojai Valley Inn And Spa 

We adore Ojai in the way you might crave a homemade meal after dining out all week.  A convenient hour and a half from Los Angeles lands you in Ojai Valley: a rustic-chic community situated amongst mountains that create a sunset beautiful enough to warrant its own name. “The Pink Moment” articulates exactly what you can expect as the sun drops below a stunning mountain backdrop.

Ojai Valley Inn not only has a golf course but activities that go beyond the spa. They take a holistic approach to health and happiness, and we love that you have the choice between a pottery class or creating your own scent at their on-site apothecary.  

Ojai Valley Inn, 905 Country Club Rd, Ojai, CA 93023

San Diego: Rancho Valencia

Just 30 minutes north of downtown San Diego, lies the equestrian town of Encinitas. Sprawled across 45 acres, you’ll find an orange grove, olive trees, and of course, the recently-remodeled Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa.

This Relais & Chateaux property is certainly the “splurge” on our list, but the details make it worth it. Rise in the morning to freshly-squeezed orange juice; take a yoga class overlooking their “floating” serenity platform; or simply bask in the comfort of a classically striped cabana.

And fair warning: though there is a lot to do in North County San Diego, once you check in to Rancho Valencia, you may never leave. P.S. If the Rancho Valencia is booked, we also think the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is worth a visit too!

Rancho Valencia, 5921 Valencia Cir, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 

Palm Spring: Parker Palm Springs

The garden and grounds of the Parker in Palm Springs are the dreamiest we’ve ever seen. A literal “oasis” in the middle of the desert you’ll want to spend your day getting lost amongst the draped hammocks and the bocce court.

Croquet calling? No problem. Bottomless Arnold Palmers keep you hydrated while the desert sun beams down. We can’t think of a happier day than one that begins with a decadent stack of blueberry pancakes at their restaurant (Norma’s) and ends with S’mores by the outdoor fire pit. Le sigh.  

The Parker Palm Springs, 4200 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264

Southern California: One Fine Stay 

For a unique approach to a weekend getaway, we love the UK-based website One Fine Stay — think of it as a few steps up from Airbnb. Only the finest homes are hand-selected and supply the same high-end accommodations, service, and even toiletries you might expect to find in a high-end boutique hotel.

Although they source luxurious homes in major cities like London and New York, our favorites in SoCal are found in Venice Beach and West Hollywood. Book a weekend in David Duchovny’s home in the show “Californication” or live like a movie star in the Hollywood Hills, replete with a pool and sweeping views of the city.  

More California Road Trip Tips

Planning a California road trip? You’ll want to heed these, hard-earned tips:

California Road Trip Planner

Did you know we’re also a boutique travel agency that specializes in California vacation planning? If you’re looking to plan a trip to California, our California trip planner services are here to help you plan your perfect itinerary.


Photo by Good Vibrations

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