Southern California Staycation Tips
If you consider yourself a local in Southern California, and desire an easy getaway, look at all the places around you! I partnered with CBS LA to speak with them on the best local staycations. If you missed the travel segment I have reviewed it here!
In my opinion, you don’t always have to look very far to discover the best destinations, and Southern California is no exception. What’s better than an easy drive to ultimate relaxation!
Top two reasons to love this idea:
1) Instant money saved since you won’t be buying flights
2) Pack as much as you want! So much stress eliminated!
Oh, and don’t forget, Southern California is a hotspot with great weather 365 days a year!
Below I’ve listed the best getaways to look into for your staycation. You’ll also see some hidden specials you’ll only receive when booking with a travel advisor (Let’s chat!). And I’ve listed some top tips to consider before you book that trip!
The Best Southern California Getaways
The perfect staycation for a spa getaway, golf trip, honeymoon, babymoon or any journey you are looking for. The Resort and town are 100% back up and running. Located 90 minutes north of LA. Right now is the best time to book and to stay. Its Pixie Season (similar to oranges). They have a pixie themed package which includes Breakfast, Pixie inspired cocktails, and 50minute Pixie body polish in the spa good between now and the end of this month- book by using code PIXIE. Best times to book for lowest prices is November 1- March 30th (excluding holidays).
Hidden secrets: daily breakfast, $100 resort credit year round.
I have so many local families that love La Costa and keep going back. They kick off their summer programing like waterslide races, mermaid experiences, kid crafts, limbo competitions and more. They also have 8 sparking pools and an award winning spa. Located just north of San Diego in Carlsbad and its in easy reach of the beaches as well as the main attractions in San Diego. They currently have a Splash, Dine & Stay package which includes breakfast, $100 resort credit, Kids club for two hours per child and one meal and a kids welcome bag!
Hidden Secret: Breakfast for 2 daily and complimentary valet parking- $90 per day value.
Looking for the old school Hollywood glamour ..look no further than Palm Spring. This has become the coolest hotspot in California. Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage is right outside the main area and gives you access to more than 100 world class golf courses, great restaurants or stay on property to enjoy their relaxing spa! Best time to visit is between January and May when the weather isn’t super hot, although you will find the best rates in the middle of the summer! Hidden Secret: Daily Breakfast, $100 resort credit.
Comfortable and luxurious. The lobby feels like you are sitting in your fancy aunt's living room overlooking the ocean. Its the perfect spot to grab a glass of rose and watch the sunset in the evenings as you explore the city during the day This hotel and its sister property Casa Del Mar are the only hotels in the Los Angeles area that actually sit on the sand, which mean you can cruise the boardwalk minutes from your room. Believe it or not December holidays are the best kept secret in terms of pricing at Shutters!
Hidden secret: Breakfast included, $100 spa credit
Talk about the ultimate staycation, you don’t have to leave this gorgeous resort since they have 4 restaurants, 2 pools, an award winning spa and its right on the beach! Hidden secret: Booking with a travel advisor you get breakfast included, $100 spa credit/ $200 if you are staying in a suite 2 or more nights, roundtrip private transfers to shopping, and upgrade at booking (if available)
Insider booking tips:
- Although the weather is always perfect between June through September think about the “off seasons” when the tourist haven’t taken over yet and the prices are lower than you will see during the summer months.
- To get the best rates. Look at Mid week stays and avoid major holidays like Christmas and long holiday weekends as well as spring break.
- Festive/ Holiday bookings need to be booked way in advance as hotels sell out fast!
-Booking within the month of your stay will most likely be the highest rates as availability lessens and rates go up based on demand.
-Booking with a travel advisor will give you the best value and rates (note the hidden secrets which you can only get when booking with a travel advisor). We have hidden specials and can also provide extra perks like breakfast, resort credits, and upgrades. Additionally booking with an agent gives you the highest chance to get that upgrade everyone wants.
- Also most travel advisors will give you updates via email on what hotels are having specials. I personally send one out quarterly with the best deals coming up (4th night free for an example). If you're not on my email list make sure to message me to get on it! abell@smartflyer.com