ALONG COMES MARY

It’s nearly time for the most controversial holiday, Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re team love it or  team greeting card gimmick (I admit, I’m a sucker and enjoy the day), it’s a great excuse to treat yourself and those you love. If getting away for Valentine’s Day is on your mind, read on for some of my favorite places here in California. All are within a few hours of Los Angeles, and diverse enough to accommodate you with however you plan to spend your Valentine’s Day. Enjoy!

For a Solo Getaway: Oceanside

I love to get away on my own. There’s something so exhilarating and exciting to explore somewhere new by yourself. Somewhere I recently visited solo and adored was Oceanside in San Diego County. What helped make this such a fantastic visit was my cozy room at The Fin Hotel. A historical landmark dating back to 1927, The Fin just underwent a renovation and offers guests a laid back, intimate atmosphere. What I loved most was parking my car and leaving it there until I checked out.

If being by the beach is your idea of heaven, Oceanside is sure to satisfy you. Whether you rent a bike on the pier from Wheel Fun Rentals or stroll their Morning Farmers Market and Sunset Night Market, I found Oceanside to be such a fabulous place for a solo trip. If you want to explore even more, don’t miss Balboa Park in San Diego, just 25 miles away and filled with museums and beautiful architecture.

While I’m an advocate for solo adventures, that’s not to say Oceanside isn’t terrific for celebrating Valentine’s Day as well. An exciting line up of activities and events will be going down, including their 25 feet tall heart that’s perfect for Instagram-ing. Learn more about Oceanside Valentine’s Week HERE.

For a Paw-tastic Getaway: Carmel-by-the-Sea

If your dog is your main squeeze (or one of them), you can’t go away without him, right? There’s no reason to when you head to Monterey County’s Carmel-by-the-Sea. One of the most dog friendly cities in the world, Carmel’s Hofsas House Hotel will pull out all of the stops for you and Fido. In addition to their romantic touches like wine and chocolate and spa packages, Hofsas also has their popular Tail Wagging package. With this upgrade, pets and their owners can enjoy a water bowl and toiletries that will come in handy after a long walk on the beach as well as treats and their own bed to enjoy during their stay.

The Hofsas is currently offering a fantastic “Third Night’s a Charm” special. When you book 3 nights in February or March, get 1/3 off your 3rd night. Blackout dates and restrictions may apply. Use code HHCHARM when booking.

As far as heading out on the town with your pooch, enjoy an off-leash dog beach in addition to most wineries and restaurants to be more than welcoming.

For a Romantic Getaway: Claremont

Claremont is one of the most hidden gems in LA County. Nestled 30 miles inland from Pasadena, Claremont offers you that “small town” feel so much you’ll forget you’re just 35 miles from Downtown LA. With a fabulous food and wine scene, enjoy an array of restaurants varying from French to Thai as well as Packing District Wines, a full service restaurant with an incredible wine list. They’re just 1 of several options you’ll have if you want to enjoy some libations.

If getting your drink on and enjoying the foodie scene with your sweetie is the plan, look no further than a stay at Hotel Casa 425 to be right in the center of action. If taking advantage of Piano PIano, Claremont’s beloved piano bar, is your idea of the ideal Valentine’s Day, consider checking into the gorgeous DoubleTree Hotel which is just adjacent to both the piano bar as well as the Candlelight Pavilion Dinner Theatre.

As you stroll the quaint streets of Claremont Village, make sure to visit their beautiful college campus grounds including Pomona College and Cal Poly.

For a Wine Getaway with your Valentine or the Girls: San Luis Obispo County

San Luis Obispo County offers visitors such a diverse itinerary that can include iconic landmarks like Hearst Castle and the Madonna Inn, as well as enjoying the ocean and sand dunes in Pismo Beach. Yet, don’t underestimate the incredible wine to be tasted in this thriving region with over 250 wineries ready to welcome you as you sip and swirl.

Check into The Embassy Suites of San Luis Obispo or Apple Farm, and enjoy incredible plates from “SLO” favorites like Big Sky Cafe and Mint and Craft. To get your wine on with your sweetie or friends, head to nearby Edna Valley and Paso Robles for some of the best wines coming from the area. Paso Robles, just 40 miles outside of SLO, was even named Sunset Magazine’s “Best Wine Region in the West” in 2016 and “Wine Region of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast Magazine in 2013.

An added bonus when you visit SLO, the road trip up the coast from LA is an adventure in itself. Take your time and stop along the way in Ventura, Santa Barbara and Solvang.

Where will you head this Valentine’s Day? xo