Get Out of Town for a Spring Break

Even if you’re not in college, spring is a great time to get away and destress.  Spring break doesn’t have to mean parties and a wild time (although sometimes that doesn’t hurt), it can also mean relax and rejuvenate.  Check out one of these locations, all within a short driving distance from Orange County, to do just that.

Santa Barbara (map)

Area Information

Just 3-4 hours north of Orange County is the coastal town of Santa Barbara.  With beaches on one side and the Santa Ynez Mountains on the other, there is quite a variety of activities, such as beach camping and hiking.  The town itself is bustling with shopping and a wide variety of restaurants.  Be sure to pay attention to the famous Santa Barbara architecture, a blend of Spanish, Mediterranean and Moorish/Islamic influences. The key features are bright white stucco surfaces, red tile roofs, courtyards, and the wrought iron accents.

Insider Recommendation

Originally settled by the Chumash Indians, the Spanish missionaries moved in, leaving a great influence on the area.  Stop by the Old Mission Santa Barbara (map) for a bit of history and some amazing photo opportunities!  After that, stroll across the street to the amazing botanical garden!

San Diego (map)

Area Information

Home of Sea World, San Diego is the beach city for a relaxing weekend or a longer vacation!  Bird watching, beach lounging, and sightseeing are all good choices.  The famous Gaslamp District, the “Historic Heart” of San Diego, is a great place for shopping, salons, spas, and staying!

Insider Recommendation

We are lucky enough at Planet Eye to have a San Diego guide.  Check it out here for recommendations on restaurants and events!

Palm Springs (map)

Area Information

Drive out of the city until you start seeing shopping outlets, the Morongo Casino, and huge windmills. You are coming up on the desert city of Palm Springs. Palm Springs is a place Orange Countians come to relax, shop, and party all in the same day. There’s even an airport if you want to fly in!

Spas, golf, horseback riding, museums, and aerial adventures are just a few of the activities in town. With so many things to do, Palm Springs is great for a romantic couple, a girlfriend getaway, or a weekend with the kids.

Insider Recommendation

Don’t visit Palm Springs without taking a trip in the aerial tramway. The tram car actually rotates 360 degrees while taking you high into the San Jacinto Mountains. At the top you can take pictures of the breathtaking view, eat at the cafe, or go for a hike on one of the many trails. If bouldering is your style of climbing, there is a ton of it on top of the Tram!

Photo Credits:

Santa Barbara – prayitno on Flickr
San Diego – nihao4587 on Flickr
Palm Springs – prayitno on Flickr