Southern California has no shortage of spectacular cities to visit. The weather is nearly perfect all year and in just a short drive you can enjoy almost any landscape your heart desires, mountains, forests, beaches, lakes, deserts. You probably already know all the heavy hitters - LA, San Fran, San Diego, all amazing in their own ways, but these 5 cities offer their own unique feel and experiences and an opportunity to check out more of what SoCal has to offer that’s a little bit off the beaten path.

Destination: San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo or SLO as the locals call it, was named the happiest city in America, and it’s no wonder why! Apart from being one of the most gorgeous towns along the California Coast, it offers an array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies alike! Ranging from biking, hiking, surfing, kayaking, sea cave exploration, copious wine/craft beer establishments and farm-to-fork eating, truly something for everyone. Don’t miss The Madonna Inn, world-famous for its 110 themed rooms. Stay for the night or stop by for a meal and spa treatment and enjoy all that this eclectic inn has to offer in one of California’s most beautiful cities.

Destination: Temecula

Forget Napa and head on over to Temecula, our very own wine destination right here in Southern California! Unlike most wine destinations, Temecula is casual, laid back, and perfect for a last-minute weekend getaway that offers a variety of activities ranging from wine tastings to hot air balloon rides. For the history buffs, take a stroll through Old Town Temecula and enjoy one of the most historic communities in Southern California, many of the buildings have been preserved from the 1800s. With its mom-and-pop shops and rugged Wild West vibe, it’s like taking a step back in time.

Destination: Palm Desert

When most people think of visiting the Coachella Valley, they immediately think Palm Springs. Which we of course, love. However, there are a number of cities near Palm Springs that are worthy of mention and fabulous in their own right! Palm Desert is a gorgeous resort style city with fantastic shopping and eating and oodles of outdoor activities including the must-see, Living Desert Zoo & Gardens where you can hike, feed giraffes, and see the Rhino Savanna Habitat. If shopping is more your speed, make sure to visit The Fine Art of Design for vintage and up-cycled finds or stroll The Gardens on El Paseo, featuring trendy and tasteful shops along a beautiful cafe-lit street. If you are looking for somewhere to stay on your visit we recommend Hotel Paseo, Palm Desert’s first luxury boutique hotel. In only a short drive you can also visit Yucca Valley and Joshua Tree National Park and say hello to our friends at the Mojave Flea Trading Post!

Destination: Lake Arrowhead

Lake Arrowhead aka the “Alps” of Southern California is nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest located about 30 minutes north of San Bernardino or about 90 minutes from LA, making it the perfect weekend destination if you’re looking to take a break from the city life and relax in a quaint mountain resort paradise. Lake Arrowhead features countless recreational activities for the outdoor enthusiast including hiking, backpacking, cycling, water skiing, snow skiing, fishing, and more! There is no shortage of amazing places to stay, whether you fancy a cabin or want to stay in one of the stand-alone cottages at the Saddleback Inn, one of the most famous lodging and dining establishments on the mountain. To really see the lake we recommend taking a tour on the Lake Arrowhead Queen - tours are offered year-round and last about an hour and a half. While you are there don’t forget to check out Lake Arrowhead Village, the Heaps Peak Arboretum. and Hearth & Sage General Store for thoughtfully selected souvenirs and goods!

Destination: Encinitas

Encinitas is a vibrant and authentic beach town that offers 60’s inspired beach culture combined with boutique shopping, contemporary restaurants, and endless outdoor activities. Located along six miles of Pacific Ocean coastline (just north of San Diego), it has long been revered as one of the greatest gems of SoCal and is home to an eclectic mix of surfers, yogis, young families, and suburbanites. It’s known for its extensive collection of unique nurseries and gardens, most notably the San Diego Botanic Garden, where you’ll find more than 5,000 varieties of plants in 29 specialty gardens. Many of the gardens represent plants you’d find in different areas of the world including the world’s largest bamboo garden. It would be impossible to talk about Encinitas and not mention the legendary surfing. Whether you are looking for a family beach, a good spot for longboards and shortboards or to hit up the legendary break at Swami’s Beach, the coastline of Encinitas has a little something for everyone. We highly recommend grabbing a cup of seaside coffee and delicious pastries at Pannikin’s, a converted train station, brimming with personality that’s been serving up fresh joe since 1968.