I love spring. In many ways it feels like the real start to the new year. After cold, dreary, dark months of winter, finally the sun shines and flowers begin to bloom. Longer days and more light coax us back out in the world, shaking off the winter blues. Spring is often warmer than summer in San Francisco (go figure), my birthday rolls around and strawberries are back in season. Wins all around!
I was recently reminiscing with a friend about watching Spring Break on MTV as kids and wishing we were old enough to be at the beach. I just knew when I got old enough, I would dance along the shore, celebrating the warmth of Spring at music concerts with my friends. My MTV Spring Break experience never happened (which might be for the best). But all the same, spring has become synonymous with travel for me over the years.
In honor of my favorite season, here’s a round up of ten perfect spring getaways.
1. Occidental, CA
Off the beaten path, nestled just west of Napa Valley in Sonoma County, Occidental is a magical little town. Great food and wineries, spas and gorgeous hikes through Redwood trees await you. If that’s not enough, the Pacific coast is just minutes away with crashing surf and fresh seafood.
2. Paso Robles, CA
With hundreds of wineries in the region at your fingertips, you’re sure to find something you like on a wine weekend in Paso Robles. If you dream of having a chef prepare your meals, don’t miss the wine and food pairing at Le Cuvier. You can thank me later.
3. Las Vegas, NV
Whether you’re a gambler or a shopper, in need of some pampering spa treatments or just there for the shows- Vegas increasingly has something for everyone. Our spring getaway last year for KT’s birthday included an awesome night at Jennifer Lopez’s show. If ‘Jenny from the Block’ isn’t your style, maybe Janet (Miss Jackson if you’re nasty), or the incomparable Anita Baker will be the highlight of your trip to Sin City. And in the spring, you won’t melt in the desert… a notable bonus if you don’t enjoy 112 degree weather.
4. Palm Springs , CA
Speaking of 112 degree weather, Palm Springs is another destination that will melt your devices (literally) in the summer. Save yourself (and your phone) and visit between March and early June, when you can wander the outlets in temperate climates, lounge by the pool all day in a hammock, enjoy brunch outside and find your desert zen on a nearby hiking trail.
5. Sedona, AZ
Two words: Red Rocks. Majestic, peaceful and gorgeous, Sedona is the perfect backdrop for a girls weekend, yoga retreat or both. During our visit in March, the weather was perfect for afternoon hikes and nights in the jacuzzi under the stars.
6. New Orleans, LA
After being a regular for several years at Essence Fest, I finally made it to New Orleans Jazz Fest a few years ago. I loved it- all the music and food you need minus the throngs of out of town guests Essence brings. Grab a praline stuffed beignet and dance your heart out to local acts and music legends alike.
7. Kauai
Still the ONLY place in the world where I can catch a sunrise, Kauai is magical all year long. It may rain, but who cares about rain when you’re living in a Hawaiian postcard??
8. Los Cabos, Mexico
Cabo is a great option if you’re in the Bay Area and looking for a beach vacay. I’ve already shared my deep envy for those East Coast travel packages to the Caribbean (it truly pains me). Mexico is our best bet from the SF Bay Area for a quick and (somewhat) affordable beach trip. A quick three hour nonstop flight from SFO is all that stands between you and warm, sunny blue skies and even bluer water.
9. Costa Rica
Wildlife, zip-lining, spa retreats and unspoiled beaches. Find your pure vida in this Central American paradise. If you’re lucky you may be escorted through the jungle by playful monkeys in the trees high above, like we were!
10. Aruba
Beach parties all day. Parasailing, paddle boarding and ATV adventures. Sunset dinners and concerts from your favorite artists at night. Whether you’re with that special someone or your girls, Soul Beach is the perfect prelude to summer.
Spring has sprung!
If somehow, these perfect spring getaways haven’t convinced you that this season is the best of the year- the Spring Baking Championship starts a brand new season this week. Spring for the win.
What’s your favorite season to travel??