Happiness Is Just a Plane Ride Away
One of the benefits of living in SoCal is the region’s accessibility to explore some of the exciting and adjacent destinations of the West. From Scottsdale’s serene spas and scenic desert sights to San Francisco’s classic cable cars and Golden Gate welcome, hopping on a flight for a change of pace and scenery is always a good idea. Here’s how to plan an easy, last-minute getaway that’s just a quick flight away from home. Weekend Trips from SoCal
Scottsdale, Arizona
Stay: Omni Scottsdale Montelucia
1.5-hour flight into PHX
Scottdale, Arizona might be best known for its world-famous golf courses and stunning spa scene, but there’s much more to this sprawling city (which seems to be getting hotter by the minute, and not just in temperature). Check in to Omni Scottsdale Montelucia, a luxurious Spanish-inspired resort nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain. Here, travelers can experience rejuvenation at Joya Spa or dine at Prado, a charming indoor-outdoor eatery with views of Camelback. Relax at one of three crystal blue pools offering an array of poolside dining and cocktail options, and enhance the experience by chilling out in one of the cozy cabana rentals. When you’re ready to hit the town, browse the boutiques or become immersed in the buzzy nightlife scene in the Old Town neighborhood.
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Omni Scottsdale Montelucia
San Francisco, California
Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco
1-hour flight into SFO
Even though San Francisco is just seven miles wide by seven miles long, the hilly city offers seemingly endless opportunities for adventure. There’s no place like The Ritz-Carlton, and their San Francisco property is no exception. Ideally situated within the city and full of history, the service, views and dining experiences here are unmatched. With their new Solaire Terrasse with Veuve Clicquot offering, guests can enjoy a decadent bottle of champagne with an exquisite seafood tower for two upon arrival. Incorporate a bit of wellness into your SF weekend with Monday morning meditation hosted by WITHIN Meditation through October (complimentary to hotel guests). Explore Union Square and hop on a classic cable car over to Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf. Those who prefer more active excursions can bike across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge or walk along the waterside Embarcadero to The Ferry Building for stunning sights of the Bay Bridge. End the evening with a show at the renowned, adrenaline-rushing acrobatic show “Dear San Francisco” at Club Fugazi.
Weekend Trips from SoCal
Monterey Bay, California
Stay: Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
1 hour flight to SJC + 30 minute drive to Monterey
Monterey Bay is known for iconic spots like Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, but this walkable mecca of marina-side shops, restaurants and attractions offers much more. Active travelers can explore via two wheels on the whole host of cycling routes weaving throughout the city and up the coastline. Get a different perspective from a kayak or SUP on the bay for the chance to see local sealife like otters, seals and even the occasional whale. Spend the weekend at Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, where guest room balconies stand as a special perch for whale watching. The hotel’s signature seaside restaurant, Coastal Kitchen, features carefully crafted tasting menus that use local ingredients to please both the eye and palate.
Lake Tahoe, California
Stay: Desolation Hotel
1.5 hour flight into RNO + 1 hour drive to South Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is America’s largest mountain lake, spanning two states and encompassing almost 40 trillion gallons of crystal clear water. Spend the night at the newly opened Desolation Hotel, named after the nearby Desolation Wilderness. With its two on-site restaurants and 21 luxuriously appointed suites (each with outdoor soaking tubs on private balconies, cozy in-room fireplaces and personal kitchenettes!), you’ll be on cloud nine. Within South Lake Tahoe, explore Emerald Bay, Zephyr Cove and more—there’s no shortage of year-round fun! The summer offers opportunities to hike, mountain bike or sunbathe on Kings Beach’s soft sand. Thrillseekers can embark on a summertime-only adventure on the Tahoe Via Ferrata, climbing high above Palisades Village.
Weekend Trips from SoCal
Las Vegas, Nevada
Stay: The Four Seasons Las Vegas
1-hour flight into LAS
Las Vegas is a glittering adult playground offering every kind of culinary, cocktail, art or entertainment adventure 24 hours a day, seven days a week. See a concert by one of the dozens of artists with residencies, from Katy Perry to Luke Bryan, or try the thrilling FlyOver Las Vegas for a multi-sensory journey soaring over 22 U.S. destinations. Grab tickets to Mad Apple at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino—the newest Las Vegas production from live entertainment leader Cirque du Soleil. Once you’ve taken in all the sights, head back to The Four Seasons Las Vegas to enjoy an elevated weekend spa getaway.
