Weekend getaways in Southern California include renowned destinations, beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and the celebrity allure of the silver screen. Here are a few road trip destinations from our team at DCH Toyota of Oxnard.
Hollywood
For star-struck vacationers, Hollywood offers a glimpse into the lives of celebrities and the movie making experience. Visitors can arrange to take a studio tour or be part of the live audience at a taping of many sitcoms, talk shows, game shows or soap operas. Hollywood is home to many historic theaters where visitors can see mainstream, independent or foreign films. A stroll along Hollywood Boulevard is a tourist must, as is seeking out favorite stars along Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. Hollywood offers exciting nightlife, interesting shops and a wide range of popular restaurants. One word to the wise, unless you’re actually invited to an event, skip the crowds and high hotel prices during Academy Awards weekend.
Laguna Beach
This charming, beach town is an ideal getaway for artists and art lovers. Art galleries are plentiful and art festivals are common throughout the year. From July through September, the Pageant of Masters festival is one of the most popular Laguna Beach events. During 90-minute performances, classic paintings are recreated with sets, costumes and live subjects. Running concurrently, the Festival of Arts is a large juried art show featuring various media. In addition to art shows, visitor will also enjoy browsing streets lined with unique shops, taking a walking tour, or heading to the beach for a range of water activities.
Ojai
Surrounded by citrus groves and sheltered by the Santa Ynez Mountains, Ojai is perfect for a relaxing getaway with friends or a romantic vacation for two. This cozy town offers many quaint shopping and dining experiences. A trip to Bart’s Books, a mostly outdoor book store, shouldn’t be missed. To take in Ojai’s natural beauty, you can rent a bicycle, arrange to go horseback riding, or bring your camera on a scenic stroll. Visiting Ojai is more about relaxation than recreation, and vacationers often enjoy a visit to one of the area’s popular day spas. When it comes to accommodations, there are several local inns such as the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa or the Su Nido Inn.
Palm Springs
Once considered the “Playground of the Stars,” Palm Springs offers many attractions that make for a memorable weekend getaway. Palm Springs’ desert location may be too hot for many visitors during the summer months, but its sunny days will be more welcomed during the winter months. Golf is a popular pastime in Palm Springs, which is home to approximately 125 golf courses. Other popular attractions are the Indian Casinos. The Palm Springs Tramway offers a ride to the top of the mountains where impressive vistas can be seen from an altitude of over 8,500 feet. For something a little different, visitors can watch the Palm Spring Follies, a burlesque tribute to the 1930s and 40s. The truly adventurous may even enjoy a stay at one of Palm Spring’s clothing-optional resorts.
