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Best Memorial Day Getaways Near Los Angeles

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According to AAA an estimated 37 million Americans will be hitting the road this Memorial Day thanks to a stronger economy and lower gas prices. While Los Angeles is a great city with many fun and interesting stuff to do, it's always refreshing to get out of town now and then. A three-day weekend goes quickly so you don't want to spend too much time traveling. Fortunately there are some great Memorial Day getaways just outside of Los Angeles that will seem like you're very far away without taking all day to get there.

hotel california
(credit: Mandy F./Yelp)

Hotel California
424 E. Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs, CA 92264
(760) 322-8855
www.palmspringshotelcalifornia.com

Whether you want to hike, play golf, shop or relax in natural hot springs, Palm Springs has it all. But if you're looking for some serious downtime check into the Hotel California. No young children or pets are allowed and no personal music without headphone keeps this desert oasis quiet and romantic. Lounge around the pool, relax in the jacuzzi or dine at any of the nearby restaurants and the stress of city life leaves you. The hotel is also a short distance from the annual Memorial Day Flower Drop.

Related: Best Memorial Day Getaways Near Los Angeles

snug harbor inn
(credit: Frankie M./Yelp)

Snug Harbor Inn
108 Sumner Ave.
Avalon, CA 90704
(310) 510-8400
www.snugharbor-inn.com

Located 22 miles off the California coast, the Snug Harbor Inn is one of Catalina Island's most popular bed and breakfast spots. Perfect for a quiet and romantic escape regardless of which city you live in, the staff at the Snug Harbor is extremely accommodating and friendly. Choose from six luxurious rooms with spectacular views and enjoy a complimentary wine and appetizers in the lounge. Restaurants and shops are in walking distance of this quaint hotel.

pechanga casino
(credit: Pechanga)

Pechanga Resort & Casino
45000 Pechanga Parkway
Temecula, CA 92592
(951) 693-1819
www.pechanga.com

Vegas is great but it's hard to relax there. If you're looking for a mix of fun in the sun with some adult excitement, Pechanga Resort and Casino is a better way to go. Spend the day at the resort lounging by the pool, detoxing in the sauna or shopping. You can venture outside the resort and go golfing, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding and even hot air ballooning. In the evening, kick up the excitement in the casino, cabaret lounge, nightclub, comedy club or catch a show in the Pechanga Theater.

blue sands motel
(credit: John W./Yelp)

Blue Sands Motel
421 S. Milpas St.
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
(805) 965-1624
www.thebluesands.com

In a resort town like Santa Barbara it's easy to end up paying for more than what you're actually getting. That will not happen though at the Blue Sands Motel. This hotel costs considerably less than the neighboring resort hotels. The kid and pet friendly Blue Sands Motel is 11 rooms of pure comfort and convenience. Many rooms have kitchenettes for extended stays. There is a newly renovated pool and has a short walk to the ocean. The Santa Barbara Zoo and many other points of interest are a mile or less away. Considering the location it's the biggest bang for your buck.

Ojai-Rancho-by-Julie-Wolfson
(credit: Julie Wolfson)

Ojai Rancho Inn
615 W. Ojai Ave.
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 646-1434
www.ojairanchoinn.com

Hippie commune mixed with modern convenience is the best way to describe Ojai Rancho Inn. Jacuzzi tubs, kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, flat screen Tv's, sauna, renovated swimming pool, very comfortable beds and a laid back atmosphere makes it impossible not to relax. Shaded grassy area, teepee, swing seat and a silver airstream room are all added charms to an already refreshing twist on a hotel getaway. There's also a hiking path behind the Inn that leads into town and free bike rentals to take on the local bike trails.

Related: Best Patriotic Ways To Celebrate Memorial Day

Kristine G. Bottone is a freelance writer living in Los Angeles. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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