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You want to get away, but exorbitant gas prices and all those new airline restrictions might be discouraging you from that faraway destination. So instead of heading to Europe or the Caribbean, try a bed and breakfast instead. Here are several choices for Los Angelenos who long for some rest, relaxation and fun.

Romance, Fun Await Just Minutes from the City

The Channel Road Inn, located just blocks from the beach in Santa Monica, is a perfect spot for locals who need a break but don’t want to travel far. Within walking distance of this Los Angeles bed and breakfast are shops, restaurants and the famous Santa Monica boardwalk. Borrow the inn’s bicycles for a tour of the area, or head to the beach and enjoy the surf and salty air.

Enjoy Surf, Sand, Sea Views in Dana Point

Sidney Woodruff, the man behind the development of Hollywood, also set out a master plan to develop the seaside town of Dana Point. He planned a luxurious Spanish-style community with streets named after and lit by lanterns. Well, much of his dreams ended with the Great Depression, but Dana Point still has its lantern streets and plenty of charm. At the end of the Street of the Blue Lantern, you’ll find the aptly named Blue Lantern Inn. The bed and breakfast boasts vistas of the Dana Point Harbor and the Southern California coastline. All of the romantic rooms include a fireplace and whirlpool tub, and some offer ocean and harbor views. Guests can walk to several restaurants, and the harbor is just down the hill, offering whale watching trips, sport fishing, shops, restaurants and plenty of sea breezes. Laguna Beach is just a few minutes away, and the inn is midway between Los Angeles and San Diego.

Journey Back in Time at Historic Claremont Village

A weekend trip to Claremont Village, a short drive from the city in eastern Los Angeles County, is like taking a step back in time. The village offers many activities, from the historic walking tour that begins at the charming train depot to the weekly outdoor market where farmers and artisans showcase their wares. Hotel Casa 425 is a luxurious getaway spot, a boutique hotel with modern flair. The spacious guest rooms look out on to the courtyard. An outdoor living room features fire pits and fountains. The hotel’s lounge is great place to relax and enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine. The hotel is within walking distance to shops, galleries and restaurants.

Enjoy Moonlight in Monterey

If you are in need of a road trip, leave the city behind and head up the coast to the Monterey Peninsula. The drive itself is a treat, boasting some of California’s best ocean views. The surrounding villages offer scenic drives, art galleries, shopping, restaurants, and famous attractions such as The Monterey Bay Aquarium and historic Cannery Row. The charming seaside village of Pacific Grove offers some of the state’s best bed and breakfasts, as well.

The Green Gables Inn is just across the street from the rugged seashore of the Monterey Peninsula. The historic Queen Anne Victorian offers a unique assortment of guest rooms, from the romantic Carriage House Suite with whirlpool tub and fireplace to the cozy Balcony Room, which features a stunning ocean view. The Gosby House Inn, another historic California bed and breakfast, is just blocks from the ocean and offers lush, romantic accommodations, many with fireplaces. The Carriage House rooms include a fireplace, spa tub and a balcony. Guests at both of these Pacific Grove bed and breakfasts are treated to a full breakfast each morning, and in the afternoons, wine and hors d’oeuvres are served.