While many Southern California locales remain closed as the nation continues to fight the COVID-19 virus, the state is slowly reopening for recreation, outdoor dining and other pursuits. If you’ve chosen to stick close to home this summer, you don’t need to limit yourself to your own backyard.
Throw your cruiser bike onto your bike rack and plan a short jaunt to any of these fun regional staycation destinations.
Paso Robles
This riverside enclave in San Louis Obispo is a must-visit town for wine enthusiasts. Paso Robles has more than 200 wineries, many of which are offering takeout service while COVID-19 restrictions remain in place.
Nearby Lake Nacimiento offers swimming, fishing, water skiing and other water sports. Grab the family and spend time at Barney Schwartz Park, where you can bike the 1.2-mile paved path or play pickleball, volleyball or tennis on the public courts.
When virus restrictions lift further, you can shop for local olive oil and dine at the James Beard-nominated Artisan restaurant or pack a picnic and spend the day tasting local concoctions.
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A San Diego Day Trip
San Diego is often called the finest city in America. It boasts of a long list of world-famous attractions for the entire family including more than 60 beaches, beautiful hikes for all, a bubbling Downtown, the museums of Balboa Park, and the San Diego Zoo. Most importantly, it has a perfect weather almost all year round.
Coronado
Coronado is a charming town easy to reach and worth the drive. You can expect to enjoy your time in this city in many ways including lazing at the beach, having a picnic at the park, or riding bike along the promenade.
There are so much to do and see in this city that you will simply feel that you’re on a much-needed staycation. Just driving over the Coronado Bridge can be a pleasing experience. So, Coronado is never a bad option.
Palm Springs
With breathtaking scenery and a prime location just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, Palm Springs is the quintessential SoCal getaway.
Because this desert spot primarily serves as a resort, tourists have their pick of hundreds of traditional inns, boutique properties and glam modern luxury hotels.
Foodies can select from hundreds of local restaurants, whether they opt for takeout, take advantage of outdoor dining or wait until inside dining reopens in the coming months.
Tour Palm Springs’ iconic examples of mid-century modern architecture, enjoy the extensive array of public art or see breathtaking views from the city’s unique aerial tramway.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
If you love outdoor activities, pack your good electric bikes and visit the largest state park in California. At more than 600,000 acres, this protected area covers nearly 20% of the land in San Diego County.
Although camping facilities are currently closed, you can still access miles upon miles of hiking and biking trails in this desert landscape.
As you explore, keep an eye out for native wildlife, including but not limited to road runners, rattlesnakes and iguanas. You’ll find this designated Natural National Landmark by traveling about two hours from Palm Springs.
Joshua Tree National Park
Within just three hours of Los Angeles, you’ll find yourself in this stunning national park. Joshua Tree is known for its desert landscapes, incredible stargazing thanks to the clear skies, breathtaking sunsets, and the chance to see more than 250 bird species, snakes, lizards and other wildlife.
The namesake tree has been the subject of thousands of photographs because of its distinctive twisted branches and spiny leaves. Cyclists can explore both paved and unpaved backcountry roads and reserve several special bicycle campsites.
While these facilities are currently closed, they are expected to open as California lifts restrictions over the coming months. In the nearby town of Joshua Tree, you’ll find a selection of boutique hotels, local cuisine and a vibrant public art scene.
Big Bear Lake
A trip to Big Bear Lake can always be a great staycation option as it allows you to stroll throw its beautiful village and enjoy your time taking local food and drinks. You can consider spending a lazy day out on a boat or get adventurous with your family hiking through the woodsy trails in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Temecula Valley
If you are looking to enjoy a wine vacation, the De Portola Wine Trail in Temecula Valley is a fantastic destination. You and your family will enjoy the natural beauty of Temecula Valley and tasting some fine wine. You can expect to behold some of the most stunning vineyards and countryside along the wine trail.
La Jolla Cove
If you are looking to enjoy an unforgettable beach staycation, La Jolla Cove can be one of the most beautiful places in Southern California. It is home to some of the most stunning beaches in California.
There are plenty of restaurants around to offer you some delectable bites. Be it a morning or an afternoon; you can expect to enjoy the breeze that will freshen you up.
Catalina Island
Catalina Island is a gem for its natural beauty and charm. You will require a ferry ride to reach the island, making it a distant destination on your list for a staycation. But considering the natural beauty and activities, you might not want to miss this island.
You can take a 3-Hour Food Tasting and Cultural Walking Tour while on Catalina Island. Get cultural, architectural, and historical insights while tasting a variety of flavors from favorite restaurants and unique eateries by the bay.
Road Trips to Majestic Castles
If you are interested in beholding some spectacular castles in Southern California, a road trip can be a fantastic idea. Some of the castles to include in the list should be Kimberly Crest House, Mt. Woodson Castle, the Historic Mission Inn, and Stimson House.
All these Southern Californian castles look absolutely breathtaking from the outside. Some even allow inside tours. So, you can expect to appreciate the architectural beauty of these castles.
If you’ve been browsing hybrid bicycles for sale in anticipation of a Southern California staycation this summer, begin planning your itinerary for any (or all!) of these four exciting options.
