Weekend Getaways for Our West Coast Babes

While you’re counting down the days to your yearly Hawaiian, family vacation or before that big trip to Spain you’ve always been dreaming of, weekend getaways are those little bits of peace we all need to hold us over until the next vacay. To make your decision even easier, Hermoza is here to give you a few recommendations for your next weekend away on the west coast.

San Francisco

For a trip in the city, San Fran is a lively, diverse metropolis perfect for the weekend with everything conveniently in walking distance or just a short drive away. San Francisco is notoriously known for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and, of course, the Painted Ladies (better known as the setting of the Full House title sequence!). When visiting the city, take a walk around Fisherman’s Wharf for some souvenirs, fresh crab, and the notorious clam chowder served in a fresh, sourdough roll. As we know, SF can be rather chilly so to keep warm when exploring, cozy up in the Cowboy Flower Pareo that doubles as wrap for an extra layer with a little bit of fashion! After shopping and lunch, head the Ghirardelli Square for the tastiest chocolate experience. Built in 1852 and holding over a century’s worth of memories, this square is known for giving its attendees a behind the scenes taste of chocolatey history. To finish out the great weekend, don’t forget to ride on the edge of a cable car through the city and make your way across the Golden Gate Bridge. San Francisco is packed with plenty of experiences and activities to keep you busy all weekend long! 

Portland

For a more down to earth feel, touch ground in Portland for a quieter and relaxing weekend away from home. Portland is likely the greenest recommendation on the list because of its well-known International Rose Test Garden, Portland Japanese Garden, and Washington Park. For a chance to connect with nature, book a half-day tour of the Colombia River Gorge and go waterfall hiking to see this beautiful wonder only Portland can offer. After that, fill your day with art by visiting Pittock Mansion known for its vast history and detailed architecture before wrapping up at the Portland Museum of Art for a collection of Native American and Asian art exhibits. To end the trip, swing by downtown Portland to see the home of the original Voodoo Donuts and head to lunch at Le Pigeon Burger for their square shaped burger patties. If you happen to go downtown on a Saturday, head to the Portland Saturday Market for the largest continuously operated outdoor market in the United States hosting all things arts and crafts. This weekend will be a literal breath of fresh air with all the outdoor activities you could ask for.

Palm Springs

If you haven’t had the chance to visit Palm Springs by now, you’re missing out! Palm Spring is the definition of “weekend getaway” and it is bound to be your favorite spot on the map. Located in the middle of the desert, Palm Springs is the kind of town designed for sipping drinks poolside. We recommend renting one of the many Airbnb’s to get a closer look at the mid-century modern architecture that Palm Springs is known for. Mid-century homes can be noticed with their sloped, flat roofs, minimalistic construction, and, of course, the vibrant variety of colors for which many California suburbs are painted. If you instead choose to stay at one of the many 5-star hotels, such as the Parker Palm Springs or L’Horizon Resort & Spa, make sure you pack your Alexandra One-Piece Swimsuit in Sky Blue to take a dip in the hot tub. After taking it all in, drive to Downtown Palm Springs for plenty of opportunities to shop and dine, skip along the Walk of Stars, and attend VillageFest with its stalls with art, vinyl, gourmet foods, and crafts. Palm Springs is for the weekender who likes to sightsee but, even more, loves to spend the days lazily by the pool. We recommend grabbing a big sun hat and your Tiffany Tankini Top and Bottom to get your tan on as you relax the days away. Don’t expect to do anything less than loosen up in luxury as the weekend carries on.

Catalina Island

Saving the best for last is Catalina Island located off the coast of Southern California. To get to the Catalina, you’ll have to purchase tickets to the ferry for the quick boat ride to the island. Once there, get ready to enter the town of Two Harbors and stay at one of the many hotels along the coast. Palm trees and cabanas are going to be the inspo of the trip as you lay on the Descanso Beach from all day long. To see some of what the island has to offer, head to Catalina Casino for a cultural center with a movie theater, ballroom, and museum. To pack your day with adventure, book a zip line eco tour to see the island from above and then head to a bison expedition for the chance to see a bison or two up close and personal. After adventuring, take a golf cart (which is the main way of transportation in Catalina) to Luau Larry’s for a fun, tiki bar experience and to try their fresh oysters! And if you somehow run out of things to do, you could even go parasailing or book a “Flying Fish Voyage” to ride a boat called the “Cyclone” and experience a nighttime parade of flying fish. We recommend taking as much time as you need to relax on the beach in your swimsuit to make the best of this beach town vacation. Hermoza’s Santorini Dots collection is going to capture Catalina Island’s picturesque vibe perfectly. So, make sure to bring your Halle One-Piece Swimsuit or your Genevieve One-Piece Swimsuit to fit right in. Catalina is a small island, but the weekend opportunities are endless, and this will be a trip of a lifetime.  

Whether you choose the city lights, a nature oasis, a desert escape, or an island holiday, just remember that no matter where you go, if you’re taking time for yourself, that’s all that matters. Traveling is the best way to mentally unwind and connect with your loved ones. So, kick off your shoes, let your hair down, and relax the weekends away.

Besos,

Marisa and Tiffany