Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Weekend Getaways

The phenomenal Santa Barbara coastline







The view from an oceanfront room at Surf & Sand Hotel Laguna Beach





A great day on the slopes in Mammoth




While I truly adore Los Angeles there’s something wonderful about getting in the car on a Friday (preferably before there’s too much traffic) and heading out of town. Here are a few of my favorite escapes. While I am sure these will not be new vacation spots for you hopefully you will discover new hotels to enjoy them from. More to follow soon…


Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara may be the perfect place on the planet. It’s just the right size – small enough to have a “small town” feel and large enough to have a Nordstrom. It defines charming. Santa Barbara is one of the few towns that look gorgeous from every angle. From having seafood on one of the piers to watching an outdoor concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl to visiting the Montecito Farmer’s Market you just have to smile when visiting.

Four Seasons Biltmore
A classic, gorgeous hotel in a perfect location. An added new perk - guests have access to the private beach club just across the road at Butterfly Beach.

San Ysidro Ranch
Charming in a rustic and intimate setting. This is a great place to sneak away to if you truly seek privacy. The fireplace cottages and suites are wonderful.

Santa Barbara Inn

www.santabarbarainn.com
This recently remodeled hotel is in a great location. The staff are helpful and friendly. Make sure to ask for a room with an ocean view.


Laguna Beach

Laguna is another quaint beachside town. I see a theme here. Yes – I adore water. Laguna has a true Southern California relaxed ambiance. There are wonderful cafes and countless shops selling original art. In summer The Sawdust Festival and Pageant of the Masters are quite popular.

Surf & Sand Hotel –
Casual and elegant – right on the sand. You will hear waves crashing from your room. I wish I could move in.


The Montage

www.montagelagunabeach.com
If you are looking for a larger hotel The Montage is hard to beat. The view at Sunset is wonderful and the outdoor restaurant is terrific. You will need to drive to explore Laguna though.

Inn at Laguna Beach

The hotel is at the beach and within walking distance of great shops and cafes. The rooms are more than fine and the rates are reasonable for the area.


Mammoth

While Mammoth is further the ride is definitely worth it. If you are like me you think snow is gorgeous but are ready for the warmth of L.A. after two days in it. Mammoth is the perfect place to escape to as the “village” (as the town is referred to) receives snow almost every time it rains in L.A. There’s something magical about a town blanketed in fresh, white snow. Of course the skiing is great but next time you visit try my favorite winter sport - snow shoeing. It’s fantastic exercise and lots of fun. By the way – I have never been to Mammoth in summer but I hear it’s fantastic.


Mammoth Mountain Inn

A popular hotel at the base of the main mountain. You can stay here and never get in your car all weekend.

The Westin Resort Mammoth

The newest of the hotels in Mammoth. The Westin is a full service hotel and good for children.

Cinnamon Bear Inn

A quaint Inn that serves gourmet breakfast and wine and cheese every afternoon in front of a crackling fire. Each room is different – some are tiny so ask when booking.

1 comment:

  1. It's good that you featured Mammoth Mountain experiences here in this post. I'm touched by the fact that there is something magical about Mammoth Mountain as a town blanketed in fresh, white snow. With respect to Mammoth vacation rentals, Mammoth Mountain Inn, The Westin Resort Mammoth, and Cinnamon Bear Inn are good choices in terms of location and amenities. Interestingly, there is no problem when it comes to Mammoth rentals since there are many hotels and Mammoth condos to choose from in the area. By the way, thanks for sharing this post!

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