Where to stay: Brisas Del Mar Inn at the Beach is near Stearns Wharf and just two blocks from beaches with a gym, pool, and free bike rentals. (There’s a reason Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry have homes here.) For a small town, it’s also got a first-class foodie scene. Why I love it: Santa Barbara is compact, walkable, and oozes unpretentious charm. I’ve been in love with magical Santa Barbara since I was an undergraduate at UCSB 30 years ago! Plus, there are plenty of great day trips from Santa Barbara if you have more than a weekend here. You can drive or even do it as a short flight from San Diego as there’s an airport there. Santa Barbara is a jewel of a little coastal town in Southern California and makes a perfect romantic weekend getaway from San Diego. Sequoia National Park-to Ogle Giant Redwoods Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico-for Wine Tasting
