We need vacation, but across-the-pond getaways are out. Lucky for us Angelenos, there’s plenty of escapes just a drive away. Whether it’s a short trip to Santa Barbara or a longer drive up north to our beautiful forests, we’re sharing our top selection of itineraries, along with all the must-have essentials. Think of it as one last takeoff checklist before you go.
But, no matter where you travel, you’ll be wise to pack a mask for all occasions. LCD’s tie-dye masks are the most versatile ones we’ve come across. And this shirt from Hightide is the coolest PSA we’ve seen for practicing good social distancing.
Santa Barbara
DRIVING DISTANCE FROM LA: 2 HOURS, 30 MINS.
You’ll know you’ve arrived once your car is hugging the coastline, you’re taking in the fresh ocean air, and the dramatic backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains is coming into view.
Itinerary and Pack List:
Take a wine tour and don’t forget your Kinto to-go tumblers for sipping and swishing safely.
Lace up your OG Old Skool Vans or hop on your tokyobike to skate or bike the seemingly endless boardwalk.
For a truly socially distant adventure, rent a kayak. Then, protect yourself on the water with this elegant wide brim bucket hat.
Pack a handful of breezy, summer dresses from dRA, ideal for strolling the city or setting in on the beach.
Big Bear Lake
DRIVING DISTANCE FROM LA: 2 HOURS, 45 MINS.
Situated near the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear is your year-round destination for high energy outdoor experiences, like the Scenic Sky Chair Lift, watersports, and plenty of boating. It’s the perfect family-friendly or solo escape.
Itinerary and Pack List:
With a guide to the best hiking trail California in hand and these all terrain hiking shoes, you are now ready for the elements. Thinking of a sunset summit? If so, you’ll be happy you included this handsome travel flask and shot glasses in your pack.
Get used to life on the lake: choose from wakeboarding, waterskiing, canoeing, or your new favorite, as-yet-unknown water sport awaits.
Rather be on the water than in the water? Rent a boat for the day and bring your new favorite easy-travel companions: the Rosé Celebration Set along with this bamboo cheese board. When the moment is right, reach for the Beach Waves Spray in your bag, before snapping a photo to commemorate the day.
Joshua Tree
DRIVING DISTANCE FROM LA: 3 HOURS.
Looking for a desert adventure that includes hiking, camping, and a side of spirituality? The famous Joshua Tree National Park is known as a healing, energetic vortex and has plenty of routes to explore by car, by bike, or by foot. And, if you’ve even once casually told someone that you’re “so cooped up you’re climbing up the wall” it’s imperative that you try to scale a boulder -- or at least observe someone else doing it.
Itinerary and Pack List:
Check out this guide to find your new favorite nature-walk or all-levels hike. Are you bringing your Cel V sandals for functional comfort on the trail or the cat-eye Sunnies to test out your new desert alter-ego?
Stay the night and camp at any one of these amazing spots. And feel organized grooming in the great outdoors with Hightide’s Dopp Kit and famous Stuff Bag.
If the sublime surroundings compel you to practice a few sun salutations, unroll your mat, and start your day with a stretch. This yoga set is both comfortable and cute in equal measure, as perfect for mountain pose as it is for ascending the mountain.
Laguna Beach
DRIVING DISTANCE FROM LA: 1 HOUR, 30 MINS.
Get away to the coves and beaches of Laguna Beach.Be sure to check out Main Beach’s tide pools and boardwalk leading to the paths and gardens of nearby Heisler Park.
Itinerary and Pack List:
It’s a little known fact that Laguna Beach has the best tide pools. Grab your suit and beach towel, and make sure to get there early.
Surfers can look to Banks Journal for season appropriate wetsuits and fun, new board shorts prints. For sporty swimsuits, Bodega has what you seek in the form of electric Stussy one pieces.
Cap off the day with a sunset dinner on the beach. Your cold drinks and al fresco meal will travel well in this tote -- with plenty of extra room to tuck in your camping utensils and plates. And if you’re parking it for a while, you'll be happy to have A+R’s cheery beach chairs in tow.
Sequoia National Park
DRIVING DISTANCE FROM LA: 3 HOURS 30 MINS.
Fully immerse yourself in nature with Sequoia National Park’s breathtaking views, gorgeous green valleys, and of course, the biggest trees in the world.
Itinerary and Pack List:
Hit the trail with all your gear in this sturdy, splashproof backpack.
Practice the fine art of Forest Bathing. It’s simple: sit on your blanket, and breath in the fresh air.
If you’re camping for the night, make yourself right at home. Fire up the travel BBQ, and set your flask nearby. Take it slow the next morning, by brewing a fresh batch of pour-over coffee thanks to your GGET beans and Field Kettle. Take the first sip, close your eyes, and smile.
Don’t forget to fire up our ‘G E T A W A Y’ playlist, curated by our go-to music guru Modi of Capital Records for inspiring, forward-moving vacay vibes.
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