With budgets tight and gas prices soaring, a staycation might be the best bet this summer. If you’re not familiar with the word, it’s a combination of the words stay and vacation. And, staycations are becoming more and more popular as families are looking to get the most of their vacation time, spending it right in their own backyards.
If you live in the Los Angeles area, the possibilities for fab staycations (with or without kids) are endless but a favorite is Malibu, specifically for their wineries which are quickly gaining popularity. There are over 50 independent vineyards in the Santa Monica mountains, with more being planted ever year, so the best way to try local wine is to hit Malibu tasting rooms.
My husband and I did this trip just a few months ago (for our anniversary sans our three-year-old of course), and it was absolutely refreshing to find amazing wines and scenery right in our own backyard. We essentially made it a day trip, but a quick search of local bed and breakfasts could easily make it into a two-day venture.
Here’s a list to help you start the perfect wine lovers’ staycation.
SIP Malibu
2598 Sierra Creek Road
Agoura, CA 91301
Grab a seat at on their rustic outdoor patio and enjoy live music while you sip on local varietals. We are big fans of the Woodstock labels – big, bold reds are affordably priced and great for parties. Take a few bottles home for future backyard barbeques. Free valet parking on Saturdays and Sundays. If you’re hungry, grab a bite from the attached country store. They’re known for their hearty brunch dishes.
Cornell Winery and Tasting Room
29975 Mulholland Hwy
Cornell, CA 91301
818-735-3542
Take a back road from SIP and you’ll find this hidden gem. Inside a quaint brick and wood building you’ll find a long communal table where you can taste a large variety of local wines. Choose flights based on your palate – reds, whites and everything in between.
29983 Mulholland Hwy
Cornell(aka Agoura), CA 91301
1-818-706-9001
The Old Place is literally next door to the Cornell Winery and Tasting Room. Grab a spot at the bar for a quick and tasty meal. Cast iron skillet creations such as farm fresh chops and steaks are great for refueling.
18741 Pacific Coast Highway
Malibu, CA 90265
Rosenthal is the only Malibu winery right on Pacific Coast Highway. Share a bottle with friends on the garden patio or try a wine flight inside to get a true taste of their varietals. And, be sure to try the Surfrider collection for “wines with a Malibu mindset.”
31740 Mulholland Highway
Malibu, CA 90265
This is the most expansive of the wineries. You’ll be able to truly enjoy the outdoors at Malibu Family Wineries, where all the tastings are held outside. There’s also an amazing amount of wildlife on the property, but you’ll have to call ahead to see them – zebras, camels and more.
Staycations are great on the pocket book, and even better for the local economy, so you can feel good about your choice. Moms, where would you go for a local vacation?
