9 Los Angeles Staycation Ideas

April 25, 2023

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Los Angeles truly feels like a world of its own. It’s no wonder why people travel from all over the world to experience the glitz and glamor of LA for themselves. Not to mention, the weather is pretty incredible as well. From spring to fall in Los Angeles, you can’t beat the west coast temperatures. You can imagine, then, how wonderful it is to live in LA.

Living in Los Angeles means you have countless opportunities to experience everything the city has to offer, day in and day out. It means you don’t have to travel far to take advantage of the many things LA has to offer. And, what better way to experience those things and explore the city like never before, than by going on a staycation? Simply grab your fav loungewear set for road tripping, hop in the car and hit the road.

Going on a staycation in Los Angeles is a great way to escape the pressures of your daily life, unwind, and relax, even if only for a day or two. If that sounds particularly appealing, here is my roundup of staycation ideas that are worth trying.

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9 Los Angeles Staycation Ideas

Catalina Island

Catalina Island is the perfect year-round staycation destination for LA residents. It’s pleasantly accessible – just a one-hour boat ride away. The Catalina Express provides boat transportation with as many as 30 departures per day. But it’s not its accessibility that makes Catalina Island an appealing staycation spot… although that’s definitely a perk.

Catalina Island, or just “Catalina” to the locals, is worth visiting because of the numerous activities, adventures, and experiences made possible there. Grab your sunnies and take an inland tour to see the buffalo, then sip on buffalo milk cocktails at Luau Larry’s in Avalon. Or glide across the clear blue water in a glass-bottom boat.

For a truly memorable, adrenaline-pumping excursion, go zip-lining over the stunning Descanso Canyon. Afterward, you can unwind on Descanso Beach.

When you’re ready to call it a night, enjoy a stay at the top-rated Avalon Hotel. Or consider treating yourself to true luxury at Mt Ada.

Big Bear Lake

This beautiful mountain community is another fantastic staycation (or “near-cation”) destination for LA residents. Just 100 miles from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake is just far enough for a unique getaway outside of the city. Fair warning… the drive through the San Bernardino National Forest and up the mountain might be a little tough if you’re prone to motion sickness. But it’s entirely worth it.

During the winter, people come from LA to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and picturesque snow-capped scenery. But Big Bear Lake is just as fun during the summer and fall. Fall is the best time to come to escape the crowds. You can spend your time hiking, mountain biking, boating, tubing, and zip-lining. Whether you’re coming for a solo retreat, a girl’s weekend, or a family vacation, Big Bear Lake has something for everyone.

For an upscale retreat in the San Bernardino Mountains, consider staying at The Club at Big Bear Village. Or, go for a more authentic stay in the mountains, and book one of the many cozy cabins. You decide how far off the grid you want to be – you can even go where wi-fi won’t if that’s what you’re looking for.

Hotel Bel-Air

Here’s a staycation idea for those of you who prefer laidback, quiet solitude. How does a stay at the legendary Hotel Bel-Air sound? When you want to get away without having to go away, this legendary LA estate in the famous canyon hills might be just what you need.

It’s no exaggeration to say that you’ll forget you’re still in LA once you check in at Hotel Bel-Air. Once you reach this “world within a world,” you’ll find yourself pleasantly lost amid winding paths, gorgeous greenery, and even a stunning swan lake. Be sure to spend some time in the spa. Your mind and your body will thank you.

All of this is just a mile from Beverly Hills. Incredible!

Hollywood Hills

For an LA staycation that feels a bit cliche, especially for locals, but that also promises loads of fun, spend a weekend in the Hollywood Hills. Treat yourself to a glimpse at how the other half lives with a taste of the lifestyles of the rich and famous.

For a chic and memorable staycation in the Hollywood Hills, I recommend staying at the Everly. They have a special staycation offer for California residents. This boutique hotel has everything you need to unwind and escape, even if just for a short time.

What better way to spend a summer afternoon than by the fifth-floor rooftop pool? You can order a refreshing craft cocktail while you lounge in the sun. And when you start to feel peckish, try some of the incredible fares from Jane Q.

Terranea Resort

Speaking of special offers, Terranea Resort has a Spa Rejuvenation Package that is calling your name. If relaxation and rejuvenation are the points of your staycation, Terranea Resort is the place to go. And you don’t have to go far. The resort is just minutes from the center of Los Angeles and nearby Orange County.

The Terranea Resort offers a spa treatment unlike any other, thanks to gorgeous panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The Spa Rejuvenation Package includes overnight accommodations, two 60-minute treatments at The Spa, and daily breakfast for two. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself and a plus one.

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

Another hotel spa-themed staycation can be found at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. It really is “a Laguna Beach coastal paradise,” even for LA locals.

What makes the Ritz-Carlton worthy of a staycation can be found both within and outside of the hotel walls. Outside and just a few ocean paths away, you’ll find Salt Creek Beach. Salt Creek Beach is one of the most popular surfing spots in Orange County. The small offshore reef lends to incredible swells that attract surfers from all around the world. It’s certainly a sight to see.

Within the walls of the Ritz-Carlton, you’ll find luxe amenities and a spa with services that will make you feel like new again. This Dana Point Hotel near Laguna Beach is a fantastic staycation destination for those looking for a quick escape from LA.

Malibu

An idyllic, luxury staycation awaits you in Malibu, with much of the credit going to the Malibu Beach Inn. This high-end hotel is situated on a strip of coastline known as “Billionaire’s Beach.” With a nickname like that, you can count on top-notch hospitality. Every guest is treated to the finest amenities and each room and suite has a private balcony. Plus, you’re just a short walk away from plenty of shopping opportunities, hiking trails, and of course, the beach.

During your stay at the Malibu Beach Inn, visit CBC Malibu for a memorable dining experience. Book a table at this Carbon Beach restaurant and taste dishes made from the freshest, locally sourced ingredients, all while soaking in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Be sure to order a drink from the award-winning barman while you’re there. Once the sun goes down, gather around the fire pit for late-night drinks and quality conversation.

The Langham Huntington, Pasadena, Los Angeles

The next upscale staycation destination on this list is The Langham. This resort getaway has been catering to Los Angeles locals and tourists since 1914.

This beautiful resort sits on 23 acres at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. You can enjoy your stay and feel like you’re hundreds of miles from home, despite the resort’s proximity to notable spots like The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. That said, you can easily go your entire staycation without ever leaving the property.

The Langham has everything you could want or need. I highly recommend booking at least one treatment at the Chuan Spa. You can spend the rest of your time poolside with a craft cocktail in hand.

Shutters On The Beach

Shutters on the Beach is perfect for anyone looking for an escape to the eclectic seaside resort community of Santa Monica Bay. For years, this idyllic hotel has been recognized as one of the best in the state. It was recently nominated for the 2023 Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.

This hotel is situated directly on the sand of Santa Monica Bay, within walking distance of the Santa Monica Pier. Shutters on the Beach is a true seaside haven.

During your stay at Shutters on the Beach, be sure to dine at 1 Pico and grab a quick bite from Coast Beach Cafe and Bar. In between meals, spoil yourself with a treatment at One Spa, or lounge by the pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Leaving is guaranteed to be the hardest part of your staycation at Shutters on the Beach.

What does your ideal Los Angeles staycation look like?

Los Angeles is huge, and it has something for literally everyone. This means it’s not only a great place to live but also a fantastic one to visit. If you’re a local, why not act like a tourist for a day or two and enjoy some of LA’s various offerings? A staycation in or near LA may be exactly what you didn’t know you needed. How would you spend your staycation if you could get away from your daily life for a bit?

P.S. Traveling is hard on the body & mind, especially if you’re an autoimmune warrior like me. Read my post on how to stay fit and healthy during the summer to ensure you’re in tip-top shape for traveling whenever the opportunity arises.

For more ways to live your most beautiful life, check out my beauty, wellness, travel, and lifestyle blog.