Having last minute thoughts on going on a road trip or weekend getaway? Thinking of something fun to do this summer? We did some research on the best places to check out in California. From the desert to the beaches we will show you what hotels to check out, restaurants, and things to do!
1) Joshua Tree
Known for forests of giant branching yuccas known as Joshua trees, massive rock formations, and fan palm oases. Get lost in the high and low desert, day to night. Full of desert indie vibes and motorbikin' highways. Take your boots along these dusty roads and experience a bit of your wild side.
Where to stay
The Joshua Tree House - Experience the high desert in this 1949 boho inspired home.
Where to Eat
La Copine Kitchen - Good for brunch serving new American food with fresh ingredients and vegan/veggie options!
What to do
Sky Village Swapmeet - A local flea market with a crystal cave at the center of it and unique one-of-a-kind finds!
2) Palm Springs
Just less than an hour away from Joshua Tree you will find this vintage paradise lost in time. Known for the classic Hollywood get away filled with mid-century modern homes and furniture. Full of hip art shows and tiki bars with classic cocktails you can't go wrong with Palm Springs as your weekend get away.
Where to stay
The Ace Hotel - A hip, artsy hotel with stylish rooms and vintage furnishings with a dog park and 2 outdoor pools.
Where to Eat
King's Highway - Traditional All-American inspired diner with an international inspired menu where they host bingo nights and even a menu for your pup too!
What to do
The Christopher Kennedy Compound - If you have an eye for design or just love interiors and architecture then you should check out the modernism tour now!
3) Monterey Bay
About 7 hours up the coast from Palm Springs you'll find yourself in the beautiful Monterey Bay. A weekend get away for the whole family to enjoy! Not like most beaches you would see- its' unique coast filled with pine trees is a sight to see. Downtown Monterey and the city's aquarium is something to check out!
Where to stay
Casa Mundras - A quiet back home vibe hotel with a spa, gym, and pool made for relaxing and taking your worries away.
Where to Eat
Old Fisherman's Grotto - Seafood, steak and Italian. Known for their famous clam chowder bowls that will knock your socks off.
What to do
Cannery Row - Downtown Monterey filled with mom and pop shops . Live music, mazes and arcades for the kids, and wine tasting for the parents.
4) Santa Cruz
Just on the other side of the bay, not even an hour away you will find Santa Cruz. Known for its' year round cool climate and famous colorful timeless boardwalk it is definately a destination to check out. If you are feeling a bit off balance and a little funky it would best to experience The Mystery Spot where you start to question gravity.
Where to stay
West Cliff Inn - Victorian era built home during the Gold Rush by Sedgewick Lynch. They provide an elegant brunch every morning along with tea and pastries with garden party inspired interiors.
Where to Eat
Laili Restaurant - Bright, flavorful, and tasty Mediterranean dishes that will spark your tastebuds onto an eating adventure. Afgan sweet tea paired with rose meringue is best for dessert!
What to do
The Mystery Spot - A funky gravity, tilt-induced visual illusion experienced by visitors results from the oddly tilted environment as well as standing on a tilted floor.