Getaway for a day

Inspired by my Sunday drive to Santa Barbara for a friend's birthday, I wanted to share some of my favorite SoCal 'getaway for a day' places to visit. Life can be so busy, and in this economy, vacations are one of the luxuries that fall by the wayside in an effort to save money. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy some of these road trip adventures, for little more than the price of a tank of gas!

Santa Barbara

This is one of the most beautiful places, there are so many picture perfect sights that it's hard to focus on driving when each turn and hill reveals yet another breathtaking vista. Park near Stearns Wharf, and enjoy a picnic on the beach, or a stroll on the pier. There are great little shops to visit nearby, all within walking distance, and if you're in the mood to see town via pedal car, or cruise around the harbor in a kayak, rentals are available. You could also surround yourself with nature, hiking one of the many local trails, or if you're there on a Sunday, wander around the Santa Barbara Arts and Crafts show, along Cabrillo.

The Getty

 

A day at the Getty, for the price of parking ($15 per car), gets you a tram ride up the hill, with great views of the city, access to all of the exhibitions, and beautiful views, all the way to the Santa Monica. It's the perfect place to bring out of town visitors, and is a lovely place to take a picnic and spend a day.

Terranea

While a night's stay at this gorgeous resort will set you back a few hundred dollars, parking in the public lot or along the street is free. A day spent at Terranea, wandering around the resort and down to the beach, will give you a chance to enjoy the view and relax. Bring a picnic, or enjoy a meal at Nelsons (they have firepits!) or The Terranea Grill, both offer casual, affordable food. Depending on the time of year, you might see dolphins and whales as well! It really is a beautiful getaway.

LA Farmers Market/The Grove

The LA Farmers Market is the kind of place that I could spend hours wandering around. The fact that it's right next to The Grove is just an added bonus. Great shopping, people watching and occasionally celebrity sighting make for a fun day, and having lunch at one of the many eateries is sure to be a palate pleaser ~ my favorite is Loteria. Kids especially will enjoy watching the fountain at The Grove, and there are free trolley rides available as well.

Crystal Cove

Another great place to take a picnic and spend the day. There is something magical about this beach, especially at sunset time, when the fading light turns the sky pastel shades of pink and orange. For the cost of parking ($15), you can walk across the road and down a trail to this beach. Spend the day wandering around, looking at tidepools, and reading about the history of the beach cottages. Or take advantage of the 17 miles of hiking trails, if you're feeling energetic.

These are a few of my favorite local getaways... Since our family moved a lot when I was a kid, we tend to see every new place we live as tourists would, exploring and visiting local attractions. And it really is a great break from reality :)