I have totally been slacking off in keeping up with the travel reports I promised you guys after our California roadtrip in September 2018, but I'm not a quitter so I'm back to pick up where we left off!
Today's post is about my favourite stops along the way from Southern California to Northern California, leaving from Los Angeles and before you get to Big Sur. These spots all have three things in common: gorgeous views, cool places to stay and loads of character.
1. Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is basically the place I'd move to after retirement in a perfect world. Great climate, beautiful little town with an abundance of cute shops (be sure to check out Renaissance Fine Consignment for AMAZING vintage) and a wide range of good restaurants (we had the perfect mimosa-laced lunch at the Andersen's Restaurant and Bakery). The town has a very European feel to it. I could probably easily spend a week here, but for a quick stop along the way I'd suggest checking out the views from the City Hall, having lunch at one of Santa Barbara's restaurants and having a quick browse through the shops before visiting the Old Mission (very prettily pink) on your way out.
2. Lake Cachuma
We didn't have enough time to actually visit Lake Cachuma, but it is a view I wouldn't miss if I were in the neighborhood. Stop for a breather and stretch your legs while taking in the beauty, or if you have some more time, make your way down for a hike or to camp for the night!
3. Pismo
On our first time in California we spent the night between L.A. and San Francisco in San Luis Obispo, but this time we added Pismo to our itinerary. It's this gorgeous little surfer town with loads of charm. We had an amazing night at the Inn at the Pier, which boasted a sea view rooftop terrace with fire pits, cocktails and a hot tub underneath the stars, valet parking and the friendliest staff. The fire pits were just what we needed after the temperature shock coming from SoCal, and we soaked up the luxury by making the most out of all of the available amenities.
In the morning we had breakfast at the Splash Café which is famed for its chowder served in a bread bowl. None of us were in the mood for chowder (we made up for that in San Francisco) but the other dishes we had did not disappoint either - simple food but very tasty.
After breakfast our friends went outlet shopping nearby, but we stayed to explore the town a bit and discover the best donuts of our entire California trip at Surfside Donuts. Such a cool spot, and its patrons are the ultimate surfer cool. If you have some more time to spend here, be sure to check out the Pismo sand dunes for the most amazing desert like views!
4. The Madonna Inn
It was our second time here, but I would always stop at the Madonna Inn if I was nearby. This fever-dream-like hotel is not to be missed even if you're just having a drink instead of spending the night or having a meal. Be sure to wander around the grounds and to the basement as well because there's crazy slash amazing details everywhere, and the most stunning views.
After these stops, you've pretty much reached Big Sur, and that region is too stunning to not merit its own post. To be continued!
For more of our California roadtrip, check out the hashtag.
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