Generally, getting away for the weekend is one of the simplest ways to reset for the week forward, particularly for those who’re in want of a change in surroundings. As somebody who persistently struggles with packing for longer journeys, the concept of solely having to pack for a few nights already units me comfy. Subsequent on my record? Discovering someplace inexpensive that’s additionally inside driving distance or a brief aircraft journey away. Should you reside on the West Coast, there are such a lot of nice locations that aren’t solely budget-friendly however—dare I say—extra enjoyable than the everyday journey sizzling spots you may consider instantly.
With these West Coast locations, you may simply hop within the automobile or board your flight on a Friday, spend the weekend exploring, and be again dwelling and prepared for the week forward by Sunday night. So seize your weekender bag: These are the very best locations to go to on the West Coast for an inexpensive weekend getaway.
1. Ventura, California
Isaac Taylor
Whereas I really like a Malibu getaway, Ventura (positioned about an hour up the coast) is way more inexpensive and low-key. This surf city gives miles of beautiful seashores and an off-the-cuff seaside vibe. Seize a chunk and drink at VenTiki Lounge & Lanai on Most important Avenue, or head to Ventura Seaside and pattern oysters at The Jolly Oyster, positioned proper on the sand. For one thing extra lively, the Ventura River Bike Path is a should for bikers and walkers alike. The miles-long path gives scenic views of the world in a continuously altering panorama.
You can also’t beat sitting on the seaside and watching the surfers, and Surfers Level at Seaside Park is a superb place to take action. Should you really feel like partaking, you’ll discover loads of rental retailers the place you may seize a board and provides. Should you’re in search of scenic views, the Ventura Botanical Backyard is a serene place to see the city and the sprawling ocean from above. Whereas the backyard closes earlier than sunset, you may simply stroll down the hill to Serra Cross to admire panoramic sundown views earlier than heading again into city.
The place to remain: Inn on the Seaside (from $170 an evening), Ventura Seaside Marriott (from $184)
2. Bodega Bay, California
Should you reside in northern California, Bodega Bay is without doubt one of the greatest hidden gems on the coast for a calming weekend. You’ll discover fairly just a few references to the filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock within the city, which supplied the setting for his iconic (and chilling) film The Birds. Whether or not you’re a Hitchcock fan or not, experiencing Bodega Bay will likely be something however chilling, because the seaside city is definitely fairly cozy. However for those who do need to expertise the chilliness of cold-water browsing, there are many wetsuit and board rental choices on the town. Or for those who choose to see the ocean from land, the Pinnacle Gulch Path leads across the surrounding hillsides, ending proper on the seaside for a protracted sandy stroll.
To refuel, snag a desk with a view at The Tides Wharf & Restaurant or seize a fast chunk at their snack bar whereas watching the cute native seals sunbathe on the dock. Should you’re into wine tasting, Gourmand Au Bay on the north finish of the bay has loads of native choices, in addition to a full menu to get pleasure from whereas taking within the waterfront view. For a extra conventional vineyard expertise, head simply south of city to Sonoma Coast Vineyards. Step as much as the bar for a guided wine tasting, or choose up a bottle of wine and a charcuterie picnic field to get pleasure from outdoors on the hill overlooking Bodega Bay.
The place to remain: The Inn on the Tides (from $195 an evening), The Lodge at Bodega Bay (from $227)
3. Lengthy Seaside Peninsula, Washington
For these seeking to discover the Pacific Northwest, there are many lovely places off the coast of Washington. For unbeatable Pacific Ocean views, head to Lengthy Seaside Peninsula and snap a pic in entrance of the signal that designates it because the “World’s Longest Seaside.” Whereas that declare is just not technically appropriate (it’s the world’s longest seaside on a peninsula), the infinite stretch of sand is certainly a sight to see. That is the kind of seaside the place you’ll need to sprawl out on the sand and loosen up all day lengthy. However if you wish to get in some additional exercise, the close by Discovery Path is an ideal place to stretch your legs on its 8.5-mile paved path.
For an additional break from the seaside, Lengthy Seaside Peninsula gives a number of museums and historic websites to discover, together with the North Head Lighthouse, the place you may get pleasure from panoramic ocean views from atop the cliffs. Make sure that to additionally take a look at the World Kite Museum, which homes over 1,500 kites from all over the world. Afterward, hire your personal kite to fly on the close by seaside. If you’re prepared for a snack, Pickled Fish is a go-to spot for native seafood, craft cocktails, and gorgeous views of the ocean. And in case your precedence within the mornings is espresso, take a look at Daring Espresso Artwork & Framing, the place you may admire some native artwork and caffeinate on the identical time.
The place to remain: Boardwalk Cottages (from $109 an evening), Inn at Discovery Coast (from $157)
4. Morro Bay, California
Should you’ve ever pushed alongside the Central Coast of California, you may need observed the enduring Morro Rock, an enormous volcanic mound that sits simply off the coast. Simply inland from this 576-foot-tall landmark lies just a little seaside city with an ideal vibe for anybody who loves the ocean and native artwork. After all, the preferred place to hang around is the world round Morro Rock, together with the encircling seaside and ecological protect. Earlier than you hit the seaside and take within the views, stroll down the Embarcadero waterfront district to do some memento procuring or seize a bag of saltwater taffy. Don’t miss the otter viewing space on the close by T Pier, the place you may watch the otters reside their greatest lives as you relish within the bay views.
For a break from the seaside, drive east about quarter-hour to the San Luis Obispo Botanical Backyard, or head north on Freeway 1 about 30 miles to tour Hearst Fort, a wonderful property constructed by William Randolph Hearst. After heading again to city for dinner, take a look at Blue Sky Bistro on the Bay for a spectacular sundown view and reside music.
The place to remain: 456 Embarcadero Inn & Suites (from $90 an evening), Inn at Rose’s Touchdown (from $175)
5. Pismo Seaside, California
Simply south of Morro Bay, Pismo Seaside has an lively vibe, with loads of native occasions and actions to participate in. The Pismo Seaside Pier Plaza is the middle of the motion and sometimes hosts occasions like wine-tasting pop-ups, automobile reveals, jazz festivals, and the annual Pismo Seaside Clam Pageant, which has been occurring because the Forties. For a extra low-key exercise, Pismo Seaside is a superb place for whale watching, as grey and humpback whales are sometimes noticed within the space. So for those who, like me, love seeing whales soar out of the ocean and cackling in pure delight, that is undoubtedly the spot to settle in on the seaside along with your binoculars in hand.
Should you really feel like hopping in a automobile, the well-known Madonna Inn, identified for its eclectic-themed rooms and storybook environment, is only a 15-minute drive away. Even for those who’re not staying there, it’s a enjoyable place to wander, seize a drink, or guide a spa therapy for those who’re feeling luxurious. The signature spa facial begins at $150. If you return to Pismo, seize a chunk to eat close to the boardwalk (Sunsets at Pismo is only one of many scrumptious choices on the pier) and take a night stroll alongside the sand to complete your night time.
The place to remain: Sandcastle Resort on the Seaside (from $160 an evening), Sea Enterprise Seaside Resort & Restaurant (from $184)
6. Bandon, Oregon
For a magical seaside escape that feels extra off the overwhelmed path, make Bandon, Oregon your subsequent highway journey vacation spot. Though the city itself may be very small, the spectacular views and secluded seashores are undoubtedly value a go to. Stroll down the seaside simply steps away from the primary avenue to soak up the world’s distinctive rock formations and spot some wildlife. Again on the town, you may take a look at Bandon’s Farmers and Artisan Market, which is open on Fridays and Saturdays and gives a wide array of native produce, baked items, and handmade crafts. Should you’re feeling adventurous, hire a motorcycle or throw in your mountaineering boots and take a look at the various scenic trails only a brief drive away.
After night time’s sleep, seize a cup of espresso at Bandon Espresso Cafe earlier than wandering the retailers and taking within the outside artwork across the Outdated City procuring district. Within the evenings, Bandon’s nightlife is quiet and serene, however the native restaurant scene doesn’t disappoint. Should you’re within the temper for Italian, Alloro Wine Bar & Restaurant is the right place to seize a glass of wine and a few house-made pasta. Or if the night time is heat, pull up a seat on the higher balcony of The Loft Restaurant & Bar, the place you may get pleasure from views of the marina and a comfy environment.
The place to remain: Bandon Marina Inn (from $86 an evening), Bandon Inn (from $133)
7. Paso Robles, California
Paso Robles is certainly one of California’s oldest wine areas, but it surely usually will get missed in favor of extra well-known areas like Sonoma and Napa. Nevertheless, you’ll discover some unimaginable family-owned wineries right here which have superb wine-tasting rooms. Even for those who’re not large into wine, the scenic views of the rolling hills are sufficient to warrant a go to. For the very best place to remain in Paso Robles, guide a room at one of many wineries, a lot of which embrace a curated mattress and breakfast expertise. Should you’re simply trying to take a look at wineries and distilleries throughout the day, Croad Vineyards and Re:Discover Distillery provide wonderful experiences.
When you’ve gotten your wine repair, head into the primary city sq. to go to the Paso Market Stroll, a contemporary tackle a farmer’s market the place you may pattern native meals and buy native crafts. For dinner, make a reservation at Style, an intimate eatery that provides a fusion of various cuisines. Afterward, take a serene stroll alongside the close by Salinas River Stroll, a two-mile path that meanders alongside the river.
The place to remain: The Edenhouse Winery (from $125 an evening), Allegretto Winery Resort Paso Robles (from $191)
8. Cannon Seaside, Oregon
Cannon Seaside is without doubt one of the greatest West Coast locations for anybody who likes to take their canine with them on trip. The town’s namesake seaside is dog-friendly, as are most of the retailers, eating places, and surrounding mountaineering trails. Leash up your pup to walk alongside the sand and catch a view of Haystack Rock, an enormous sea stack that rises 235 ft out of the ocean. To work up an even bigger sweat, discover the close by Ecola State Park, the place you’ll discover a number of miles of mountaineering trails stretching alongside the shoreline (a lot of them paved). And for any surfers on the market, if the waves are good, you may hire all of the gear you’ll want at one of many many surf retailers on the town.
Should you’re in search of a extra stress-free exercise, head into city to peruse the various artwork galleries and retailers, or take an artwork class at Home of Orange and create your personal murals. Within the evenings, seize a drink at Pelican Brewing, which has a spacious eating space and is simply steps away from the seaside. After glad hour, take a look at Anna’s Desk, a source-to-table restaurant that celebrates the world’s regional delicacies.
The place to remain: Hallmark Resort & Spa (from $164 an evening), Schooner’s Cove Inn (from $259)
9. Ojai, California
Ojai is a type of locations that feels such as you’re getting into one other time and place. There’s actually no different city prefer it, because of its combination of attention-grabbing retailers, infinite bike and strolling paths, and wellness retreats. That is the final word West Coast vacation spot for anybody who must recharge and reconnect with pals or a associate. When you wander down Ojai Avenue and take a look at retailers, be sure that to strive a kombucha tasting at Revel or a honey tasting at Heavenly Honey Firm. A must-see traditional within the space is Bart’s Books, an out of doors bookstore that has tons of appeal and whimsy—and a whole lot of picture ops for the guide lovers on the market.
As somebody who loves bees, however normally tries to keep away from them, I used to be shocked that the beekeeping expertise at Ojai Valley Inn was certainly one of my favourite actions in Ojai. Fitted in a full beekeeper swimsuit for defense, you’ll tour the native beehives with an professional. This may sound nerve-wracking, however for me, the buzzing and presence of the bees was truly calming. Afterward, head into city for a scrumptious meal and dessert at The Dutchess, a Burmese-Californian restaurant that has shortly change into one of the fashionable spots on the town.
The place to remain: Caravan Outpost (from $190 an evening), The Emerald Iguana Inn (from $259)
10. Joshua Tree, California
Should you’re in search of a desert journey as a substitute of the seaside, Joshua Tree is the right getaway. Simply north of the marginally costlier Palm Springs, Joshua Tree gives a country and quiet environment with infinite desert views studded with the timber the city is called for. Nights in Joshua Tree are particularly peaceable, and also you’ll be amazed by the quantity of stars you’re in a position to see on a transparent night time. As such, it’s an excellent place for tenting or glamping, a well-liked various to staying in a conventional lodge.
In the course of the day, be sure that to take a look at the sprawling Joshua Tree Nationwide Park. With infinite trails, lookout factors, mountain climbing, and horseback using, you may actually spend a complete weekend simply exploring the park and nonetheless really feel like you will have extra to see. For a meal and music, it’s well worth the 15-minute drive to see the well-known restaurant Pappy & Harriet’s, positioned in Pioneer City. It’s virtually all the time crowded, but it surely’s well worth the wait to benefit from the distinctive environment when you settle down from the desert warmth.
The place to remain: Joshua Tree Village Campground (from $115 an evening), The Fort Home Property (from $139)
Supply: The Every Girl
