Curator’s statement
It's a truth that Los Angelenos hold dear: within a few hours you can be in cozied up the mountains, soaking in a hot springs, rock climbing the desert, learning to surf or wine tasting by the coast. Whatever kind of escape you seek, you shall find. What's more, Southern California's best destinations are always evolving with cool new restaurants and hotels and new ways to explore or relax.
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Weekend Trips from Los Angeles in California
Santa Ynez
From the San Luis Creek Lodge, hire a driver for a day of wine tasting at Niner, Epoch and Herman Story before dinner at Bell's or Peasant's Feast. Don't forget to stop at Bob's Well Bread for lunch.
Palm Springs
While in Palm Springs, lounge poolside with drinks in hand, book ample spa treatments and pop out for an early dinner at Bar Cecil or Workshop Bar + Kitchen.
Ojai
Ojai Valley Inn does it all, but the town is well worth exploring, too. Go for a hike or two, stop at Bart's Books, check out local hot springs and grab a bite at The Dutchess.
Encinitas
Encinitas is an up-and-coming area that already boasts an impressive food roster. Go for Shootz Fish & Beer and Privateer in Oceanside, Jay's Gourmet in Carlsbad, The Crack Shack and Taco Stand in Encinitas, and miles of beach to choose from in between.
Places to eat & drink in California
Where to eat in Santa Ynez (including Los Alamos, Los Olivos and the surrounding area)
Peasant's Feast (lunch & dinner).
Bar Le Cote (lunch & dinner).
Bell's (lunch & dinner).
Where to eat in Palm Springs (when you are able to peel yourself away from the pool)
Norma's (brunch & lunch).
Birba (lunch & dinner).
Bar Cecil (dinner).
Workshop Bar + Kitchen (dinner & drinks).
Where to eat in Ojai (after a round of golf, a game of tennis and a swim)
The Dutchess (breakfast, lunch & dinner).
Rory's Place (dinner).
Where to eat in Encinitas (hit the beach, grab a bite, rinse and repeat
The Crack Shack (lunch, dinner).
Privateer (dinner).
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Travel Advisor
Nicole Campoy Jackson
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Los Angeles, part of our larger series on travel to California.