California road trip for milestone birthday
 

I have now canceled every booking for every trip this year. The last to go was our booking in British Colombia at Khutzymateen Grizzly Bear Lodge. It's unclear when the US Canada border will open and it's unlikely it will do so by July when we were going. Further, I'm not comfortable getting on an airplane or wearing a face mask for 10 hours or so of travel.

I have a milestone birthday in late July. I had varied celebratory plans, none of which can be executed. We're fortunate to live in a beautiful area with amazing restaurant take out options but I wanted something more. Last night, I threw together the following trip:

• Drive to the Monterey area
• One night, Carmel Valley Ranch, Vineyard Oak Studio
• Two nights, Ventana Big Sur an Alila Resort, Vista Hot Tub Suite
• One night, Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
• Home

I think I've chosen properties with sprawling beautiful grounds where we can walk and not encounter a lot of people. I'm not expecting museums nor restaurants to be open. I'm expecting to enjoy the scenery and to eat in our room. Have I chosen well for the trip given the conditions under which we currently live? Would you tweak it in any way?

Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay
 

You might consider adding the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay. The views and walking trails are gorgeous.

I would pick somewhere else in Santa Barbara.
We were at Bacara a few weeks ago. If the pool is closed, the beach there is not nice. Also, there are only two walking paths, so anytime you do leave the room you will be surrounded by a decent amount of people.
Finally, given the proximity to LA, this is used as a getaway place so there were tons of dogs and kids. You may like being around both, but something to consider.

We have a reservation at the Rosewood for July 4th weekend. Originally we were at the FS, but the Rosewood has a better cancellation policy which is what I need.

Not much to add here other than that I just booked Ventana Big Sur for early July followed by Las Alcobas Napa Valley. Hoping for the best.

Thank you. This is solid advice. Setting aside the cancellation policy, do you think it comes down to Rosewood vs FS? What did your research show about one versus the other?

Do you think restaurants will have reopened in Napa? I thought about it, whether for this or a different trip, but eating is my joy when I go to that area. I'm not sure what accommodation the intimate restaurants of Napa can make to give a sense of security.

Napa is being VERY aggressive with their restaurant re-openings, from what I can tell. They are on track to open restaurants for in-person dining in the next week. The governor today also announced that individual counties can choose their own re-opening timeline.

See link here - a little dated from last week but still holds true: https://sf.eater.com/2020/5/15/21259...le-foods-pliny

SanDiego1K, in Santa Barbara area my #1 choice would be San Ysidro Ranch.
https://www.sanysidroranch.com

Ventana’s setting is exceptional. Clientele skews very young. Perfect venue for the hot tub. Do check out the Japanese baths. Room service is poor but the restaurant is quite good especially if staying only a few nights.

Sorry to learn of your cancellations, that’s tough. Glad you are making other plans.

In SB, it seems to be Rosewood vs. FS if you want to be on the beach and Belmond vs San Ysidro Ranch if you do not want to be on the beach.
The Rosewood only opened last year so I have not had a chance to stay there previously, but figured it was worth checking out.

Alternative options, Ritz Carlton Marana, Az.

The hiking trails are amazing and can be enjoyed at night, or in the morning depending on your preference. The spa and pools are great, the rooms are comfortable.

6 hour drive from San Diego, and take a scenic route home, stop in Phoenix or Palm Springs, or both.

I think the summer heat would be too much for me but it's a great suggestion for fall. I fear road trips are my future for some while.

Well, look on the bright side, you live in the best country in the world for road trips. I've done three in the South-West, one in the Deep South, one along the West Coast, but easily the best one was a huge loop up from Denver thru Nebraska, the Dakotas, Montana and Wyoming, ending up at Amangani after a variety of B&Bs, motels and National Park Lodges. I always planned to drive across the mid-west - Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma - but never quite got it together. The real challenge is finding something to eat in these remote areas.

I’ve not stayed at the Rosewood although I had been anticipating it. But, the architecture and setting is an East-Coast wannabe and the prices are ‘effing outrageous and I don’t usually mind being overcharged but this place is highway robbery.

Honestly, in my view, the beach in Santa Barbara is no great shakes but it’s OK for walking.

Been there, done that. San Ysidro Ranch is an excellent suggestion.

As much as I like Monterey, I'd bypass it and head for Mendocino. Agate Cove Inn is our favorite, followed by Alegria Oceanfront Inn.

Thanks for the suggestion. I've changed my plans and will now spend a night here instead of the Ritz Carlton Baccara. I'm so glad you suggested it as I really prefer small properties.