From Snug Cabins to Oceanfront Resorts, These Spots All Made our Winter Bucket List
The season’s shorter days and cooler nights might have you missing that tropical vacation you had to cancel a few months ago. But despite travel restrictions, winter is still one of the best times to get away. Whether it’s ascending to a cozy cabin in Big bear or using up your PTO for a week-long staycation in the Malibu mountains, there is no better time to plan your next great escape. With that said, we’ve rounded up 12 of the coziest SoCal staycation spots for a dreamy winter retreat. Southern California Staycation
1 | Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel
Situated just two blocks past the famous and bustling Santa Monica Pier lies the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel. And this year, Loews is prepared to offer you the coziest escape yet with their Cozy Coastal Escape package. This exclusive offer includes accommodations in the oceanfront fire pit suites or rooms (which feature a private fireplace patio), a bottle of wine and chocolates, a cozy blanket, a couples ride on the Santa Monica Pier ferris wheel, complimentary valet parking and late check-out! During your stay, be sure to reserve a table at Blue Streak—one of Loews’ on-site restaurants with oceanfront fire pits and fresh California-inspired fare.
Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel
1700 Ocean Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90401
310.458.6700
Southern California Staycation
2 | The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Modern luxury meets historical charm at this California craftsman resort in La Jolla. From the stunning exterior stonework to the resort’s rustic interior, this San Diego staycation spot makes for the perfect winter escape. Enter through the stained-glass front doors and notice an array of impressive design elements, such as the Tiffany glass lamps, pine cone motifs, cedar logs burning in the lobby fireplace and kilts worn by the bellmen. During your stay, be sure to take a swim and enjoy classical music from the pool’s underwater speakers!
Local Knowledge: The interior wood used to craft The Lodge is violin grade.
The Lodge at Torrey Pines
11480 N Torrey Pines Rd
La Jolla, CA 92037
858.453.4420
3 | Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
After a scorching summer heat wave, temperatures have dipped in the desert, creating the perfect setting for a picturesque Palm Springs getaway. Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa is ready to welcome you with enhanced cleaning procedures, scenic pools, delectable dining options, championship golf and a screamin’ deal on your stay. Book the Escape and Save package and receive 15% off when you stay two nights or more! During your stay, be sure to relax at the adults-only Azure Pool and enjoy an al fresco dinner at bluEmber for tantalizing California New American dishes and incredible mountain and fairway views.
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
41000 Bob Hope Dr
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
760.568.2727
Southern California Staycation
4 | La Quinta Resort & Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
The winter’s cooler temps and balmy nights have conquered the desert’s scorching sun, creating the perfect setting for your next escape. La Quinta Resort & Club is one of the Greater Palm Springs’ dreamiest spots for a staycay. Spanning across 45 acres, the resort grounds are accented by flower beds, cypress and citrus trees, cacti, sparkling pools, waterfalls and picturesque courtyards lined with lofty palms. Take a dip in one of the 41 climate-controlled pools and retreat to your cozy villa for a snug night’s sleep.
La Quinta Resort & Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
49499 Eisenhower Dr
La Quinta, CA 92253
760.564.4111
12/27
5 | Korakia Pensione
In the heart of Palm Springs rests Korakia Pensione, a petite Mediteranean-inspired resort on 1.5 lush acres, featuring bungalows, serene gardens, Moroccan fountains and turquoise pools. As you enter through the unique keyhole-shaped grand entrance, you’ll notice an array of antiques and handmade furniture. At Korakia, the beauty lies in the details—but don’t be mistaken—there is nothing pretentious about this eccentric oasis.
Local Insight: Korakia Pensione remains a desirable rendezvous for an elite lineup of renowned actors, writers, photographers and producers.
Korakia Pensione
257 S Patencio Rd
Palm Springs, CA 92262
760.864.6411
Southern California Staycation
6 | Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club
This chic ranch resort nestled in the Malibu mountains is the only destination in Malibu that encompasses both a private 250-acre ranch in the Malibu wine country as well as an exclusive Beach Club. In each of the private cottages, bungalows and estate rooms, you’ll find natural farmhouse accents mingled with modern embellishments and amenities. Step outside your room and discover a peaceful yet sprawling sanctuary surrounded by towering trees, rustic architecture and sparkling pools. And when you’re ready for some time on the sand, the Beach Club—a breathtaking five-acre ranch along the Malibu coast—is only a 12-minute drive from the Guest Ranch!
Local Insight: “Calamigos” is a Chumash Indian word that means “Come As My Brother, Come as My Friend.”
Calamigos Guest Ranch and Beach Club
327 S Latigo Canyon Rd
Malibu, CA 90265
818.575.4400
The Beach Club
26025 Pacific Coast Hwy
Malibu, CA 90265
818.540.2440
Southern California Staycation
7 | Paséa Hotel & Spa
Stationed on the breezy coastline of Huntington Beach, Paséa Hotel & Spa is a dreamy oceanfront retreat—especially in the winter when the crowds have cleared. Grab a drink and a bite on the rooftop of Tanner’s Restaurant and then venture into Pacific City next door for some shopping and dessert at Lot 579. After your bellies are full, you’ll want to grab a spot at one of the communal seating areas to catch a spectacular Surf City sunset!
Local Insight: Two of Pacific City’s tenants include Four Sons Brewing Co. and Aubergine, so be sure to stop by for a tasty bowl, wrap or salad—and a pint, of course!
Paséa Hotel & Spa
21080 Pacific Coast Hwy
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
855.622.2472
8 | Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano
This brand new hacienda-style hotel in the heart of San Juan Capistrano offers locals and travelers a taste of historic tradition. Whether it’s taking in the view on the outdoor patio overlooking the Great Stone Church or soaking up California’s rich history with a tour of the neighboring Mission, there is so much to learn and see at this quaint hotel. Cool off at the Inn’s sparkling pool or sip a hand-crafted cocktail at the chic lobby bar. And when it’s time to eat, Ysidora Restaurant and Lounge features traditional Spanish dishes crafted with regionally sourced ingredients. After you’re done savoring a variety of delicious tapas and wood-fired meats and vegetables, venture out to the olive garden for a magical evening under twinkling lights.
Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano
31692 El Camino Real
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.503.5700
Southern California Staycation
9 | The Westgate Hotel
Take a trip to Versailles this winter with a weekend at The Westgate Hotel. This classy Euro-style hotel offers travelers a posh experience worth every penny. Baccarat crystal chandeliers, Persian rugs and French tapestries create a classic elegance—a refreshing contrast from the recent surge of contemporary, millennial-focused hotels. Brass fixtures and Baroque-inspired accents adorn the interior of each room, but the real highlight is the sweeping views of the San Diego skyline. And when the sun rises, slip on a robe and order the brioche French toast or lemon ricotta pancakes for a decadent breakfast in bed. After this doozy of a year, you deserve it.
The Westgate Hotel
1055 Second Ave
San Diego, CA 92101
619.238.1818
10 | Belmond El Encanto
Perched high in the Santa Barbara hills, this idyllic hideaway boasts acres of secluded gardens and the best views of the American Riviera. The property’s 1920 glory has been artistically restored while maintaining the Spanish-colonial and California craftsman styles. Be sure to take full advantage of the resort’s sumptuous boutique spa, zero-edge outdoor pool, seven acres of gorgeous gardens and the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter that will take you anywhere within a five-mile radius. At Belmond El Encanto you’ll have no problem lounging the day away, breathing in the ocean air and sipping a glass of crisp local wine.
Belmond El Encanto
800 Alvarado Pl
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
805.845.5800
Southern California Staycation
11 | Ojai Valley Inn
Situated just north of Los Angeles lies the iconic Ojai Valley Inn. Spanish revival architecture set against blue skies and surrounded by acres of sprawling oak trees makes this historic inn the perfect peaceful escape. Lounge the day away at one of four pools or treat yourself with a trip to the spa. The Ojai Valley Inn alfloewso offers an assortment of adventurous activities, such as cooking classes, s’mores roasting, Jeep tours, horseback riding, whale watching, rock climbing and more!
Ojai Valley Inn
905 Country Club Rd
Ojai, CA 93023
855.697.8780
12 | The Kitchy Cabin
If you’re looking for something more secluded this season, The Kitchy Cabin in Big Bear is the perfect mountain retreat. This stylish, midcentury modern cabin sleeps up to 10 guests and is fully equipped with a large outdoor hot tub, private master bedroom patio, expansive backyard, game room and designer furniture. The soaring A-frame ceilings and personal touches added by Designer Claire Thomas create a cozy vibe that’ll make you and your crew feel right at home.
