Somehow, some way, we’re nearing the end of May — and Memorial Day Weekend has snuck up on us yet again. Sure, some Angelenos may want to rest and rejuvenate at home, but if you’re anything like us, a small weekend getaway sounds pretty nice, huh? The SBP team got together to curate the ultimate three-day-weekend guide for those seeking a mini vacay, including everything from where to stay to the best spots to eat and drink. Scan our picks below, book your trip, and thank us later.
Joshua Tree
Just two hours from Los Angeles lies an otherworldly landscape that’s sure to satiate the mind, body, and soul. With epic rental homes, eccentric dive bars, tasty eats, and boundless hikes to pursue, Joshua Tree is a mainstay getaway for Angelenos.
Hop in the car and you’re there. Home to laid-back beach cities like Newport and Laguna, and, of course, the best place on earth, Disneyland in Anaheim, Orange County feels like the ultimate escape while just 40+ minutes from home.
Whether you decide to drive or fly, a quick little getaway to San Francisco is a must for any Angeleno — and a three-day weekend is the best time to do it. Brimming with rich history, modern hotspots, and bountiful nature, San Francisco offers a best-of-all-worlds vacation.
STAY
Hotel Drisco: Luxury boutique hotel with a classic European vibe in Pacific Heights
San Francisco Proper: Kelly Wearstler-designed, flatiron-style hotel in Mid Market
Hotel Kabuki: Modern Japanese-style hotel in San Francisco’s Japantown
—————
EAT + DRINK
Tartine Manufactory: Popular bakery and restaurant dishing out fresh-made breads and more for breakfast and lunch
Che Fico: Casual, seasonally driven Italian spot on Divisadero serving house made pizzas and pastas for dinner
Rich Table: Californian dinner fare in a salvaged-barn-wood space with an open kitchen
—————
DO
Attend the two-day Carnaval Parade over Memorial Day Weekend
Nothing says Memorial Day Weekend like a poolside cocktail beneath the warm desert sun. Whether it’s an adult or family trip, Palm Springs offers chic hotels, incredible cuisine, and countless activities for everyone to enjoy.
Just two hours from LA and you’re in the mountains. It’s as simple as that. With its blooming spring landscape and warm, sunny weather, Big Bear is the perfect destination for boundless adventure, chic dwellings, classic mountain fare, and sweet spots to sit down for a beer (or two).
Epic golf, relaxing spas, wine tastings, delicious cuisine — there’s nothing Ojai doesn’t have. This Memorial Day Weekend, explore all that this quaint Ventura County city has to offer, including remarkable places to stay and endless things to do.
STAY
Ojai Valley Inn: Premier luxury resort with a championship golf course and award-winning spa
Capri Hotel: An artsy and newly renovated 1963 mid-century roadside retreat
—————
EAT + DRINK
The Dutchess: Burmese-Californian fare in a farmhouse-style space for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
The Nest: Contemporary order-at-the-counter spot for healthy-ish breakfast and lunch
Olivella & Vine: A refined farm-driven culinary experience at Ojai Valley Inn
Sometimes you don’t need to leave LA in order to feel like you’ve left. Whether you drive PCH up to Malibu or head down south to the jagged coastline of Palos Verdes, you’ll discover remarkable hotels, delicious eats, and plenty of experiences that’ll have you wondering if you’re still in Los Angeles.
STAY
Terranea Resort: Remarkable luxury hotel on 102 acres along the cliffs of Palos Verdes
Nobu Ryokan: Stunning modern Japanese-style hotel situated directly on the beach
Surfrider: Stylish contemporary California beach house overlooking Malibu Pier
—————
EAT + DRINK
Lucky’s Malibu: Classic, upscale white-tablecloth steakhouse open for lunch and dinner
Mar’sel: Elegant dinner and Sunday brunch destination overlooking the ocean at Terranea Resort
Nobu: Celebrity staple serving sushi and Japanese delicacies in a modern, beachfront space for lunch and dinner
