apres village popup at the four seasons

 

What if you could plan your winter lodge getaway without leaving Palo Alto?  Get cozy at Apres Village, a winter popup event offered nightly from now until January 7 at the Four Seasons Hotel. The event features rentable private chalets stocked with fluffy blankets and a fireplace. There’s also a winter menu with plenty of hearty, stick-to-your-ribs nibbles ranging from fondue to beef ox tail ravioloni. For the ultimate comfort food, try the creamy polenta taragna with smoked provola, gorgonzola and parmigiana Reggiano. Warm your hands with a spiced-mulled wine or decadent hot cocoa with a peppermint spoon. And we highly recommend you end your evening with s’mores. They’re leveled up with quality ingredients—housemade graham cracker cookies and silky dark chocolate—plus you’ll get to roast the giant puffy marshmallows above a small flame at your table. —Johanna Harlow

chaminade resort & spa

 

If you live on the Peninsula, Chaminade is one of those places you already know about—or should. For years, I’ve heard friends rhapsodize about staying there, and now that I’ve personally had the pleasure, I completely get it. Just a hop over Highway 17, Chaminade is nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains with sweeping views out to Monterey Bay. Sitting on 300 wooded acres, the property feels like a playland for every age with dogs welcome too. The biggest challenge is deciding what to do first, especially with an extra slew of special summer programs. We enjoyed mixing up the pace—pickleball (Dinks & Drinks social was super fun!), hiking, pool and spa time, capped off by a magical evening at The View Restaurant, complete with live music and a spectacular sunset. Factor in our super comfy room, and all the activities we didn’t even begin to get to, and I can unequivocally say we’ll be joining Chaminade’s pack of regulars. —Sheri Baer

suspiro

 

Looking for more Santana Row spots since reading PUNCH’s staycation story? Add Suspiro to the list. This newly-opened Spanish and Peruvian restaurant is a marvel of mossy green booths and edison lights with natural elements ranging from the craggy stone bar to the accent wall that gives the abstract impression of a misty rainforest to the profusion of fronds. The paella here is respectable, the grilled cheese with truffle is scrumptious, but the ceviche truly steals the show. There are four kinds ranging from classic to fusion. One fresh new take is the Ceviche de Atun—tuna, peanuts, sesame seeds and tamarind all bathed in a vibrant leche de tigre marinade. But there’s more. Seek out the hidden entrance and you’ll find yourself deposited into Suspiro’s swanky, secret speakeasy. —Johanna Harlow

dillon beach resort

 

Talk about a transformation! What used to be a rundown RV park is now an idyllic setting for coastal playtime and it’s just an hour’s hop past the Golden Gate Bridge. What struck me when we first arrived at Dillon Beach Resort is that this is a place for making memories. Perched on a scenic bluff at the juncture of Tomales Bay and Bodega Bay, the vibe here is a cozy community of custom-made tiny homes and fully-renovated vintage cottages. Ideally equipped for families and friend groups, it’s got the added perk of being dog-friendly, with a mile of off-leash sandy beach just steps away. Think retro, laidback bliss: hanging at the seashore, wine ’o clock in Adirondack chairs, games of cornhole, s’mores over a fire pit, yummy soft serve at the onsite General Store. Definitely a tip worth sharing… a rare blend of (tiny home!) novelty and nostalgia—with West Marin’s iconic attractions all around you. —Sheri Baer

tipsy putt

 

Mini golf is trending again! And so is the city of Sunnyvale. The newly opened Tipsy Putt is seated at the heart of Cityline, a new development transforming eight blocks of sleepy Sunnyvale into a lively destination of retail and residences. With the mantra “drink local, putt tipsy,” this bar/mini golf spot scores a hole-in-one with 40+ California beers, wines and spirits. After sampling their tacos, churros and other comforting Mexican fare, its time to hit the green. Pick your putter (they come in a range of colors, clubheads and sizes), then show your prowess on the course. And before you go, take some pictures with the photo ops: We recommend the “talk birdie to me” neon sign and playful taco/golf themed murals. —Johanna Harlow

the donum estate

 

Ever since Sheryl Nonnenberg wrote about Sonoma’s Donum Estate in PUNCH’s September
2022 issue, I’ve been wanting to get there with my parents, who are also wine and art lovers.
Now that we’ve visited Donum ourselves, I can’t imagine a more perfect destination: one of the
largest private sculpture collections in the world—50 monumental works—paired with a private
wine tasting experience. To allow for mobility issues and see more of the estate, we booked an
Explore Experience, which includes a guided ATV tour of the art collection, farm and vineyards.
When we plan our next visit with friends, we’ll opt for the Discover Experience—a guided
walking tour—so we can explore the open-air sculpture collection by foot. Although Donum is
less than an hour from the Golden Gate Bridge, it still feels like not enough people know about
this treasure. Truly, a hidden gem! —Sheri Baer

lafayette park hotel & spa

 

As avid fans of staycations, we were intrigued by the prospect of a “French country escape” in the East Bay. Sure enough, the Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa (reminiscent of a French chateau surrounded by rolling hills and expanses of oak trees) turned out to be an idyllic setting for a birthday overnight/getaway. Highlights included much-needed downtime in our luxurious suite, poolside reading and relaxation as well as a completely indulgent Nano Renewal Facial at the spa. We especially enjoyed our celebratory dinner at The Park Bistro & Bar (with extra raves to the pan-seared scallops and squid ink spaghetti and chocolate citrus bread pudding). Adding to the fun: exploring Walnut Creek’s charming shops (with a stop at Tellus Coffee), hiking at nearby Lafayette Reservoir (what a gem!) and afternoon IPAs at the Headlands Brewing Company beer garden. A terrific reminder that you don’t have to drive far to get away!  —Sheri Baer

filoli historic house and garden

When you’re tired of wandering through your own backyard, look no further than Filoli. While the house is currently closed to visitors, my personal favorite spot has always been the garden. Painted arrows on the ground guide your visit, allowing for social distancing. It’s the perfect place for a walk with a loved one (I took my mom) or to snap a few graduation photos. During your visit, keep an eye out for the ever-changing art on display. Kristine May’s wire sculptures can be seen until November. Tickets must be reserved online in advance (even for members) and don’t forget to bring a mask. — Sinead Chang

the inn above tide

 

In need of a mood reset? Being around water soothes my soul, so it’s no surprise that Sausalito’s The Inn Above Tide has become my happy place for calm and bliss. “Above Tide” is a literal description. Whether you’re in a chic deluxe room or expansive suite, you’ll hear the Bay lapping directly below you—and see SF’s skyline twinkling in the distance. Favorite activities: hiking up and around Sausalito’s hills and kayaking past houseboats and bobbing harbor seals in Richardson Bay.  On our most recent visit, we tried DITAS for the first time—delicious coastal cuisine with breathtaking views. The Inn Above Tide also partners with celebrated local chefs to offer tasting baskets for guests—we indulged and agreed the culinary treats were a great way to kick off our stay! —Sheri Baer

stulsaft park

During a rainy, chilly winter day there is no park I enjoy more than Stulsaft, since few other people are there and even fewer dogs. You can rustle through the leaves and hear the creek running and feel as though you a world away from Silicon Valley. There’s enough room and off-trails that you can meander around and let nature take ahold of your senses. Bring a Thermos of hot coffee and stay awhile. —Sloane Citron

TETRA Hotel and Adrestia

 

Scoping out your next staycation? Sunnyvale’s TETRA Hotel is a sleek modern beauty with neutral colors, clean lines and a clear intentionality to its light fixtures—all grounded by natural accents (like the lovely wooden slats that run along the lobby’s partitions and ceiling). Expect fun modern art in the rooms and a striking mobile of green paper leaves next to check-in (swaying realistically in the breeze every time someone steps through the entryway). After taking a dip in the heated pool on the 3^rd-floor deck, visit the hotel’s restaurant Adrestia for melt-in-your-mouth carpaccio, skillet corn bread served with decadent miso and honey butters, and steak with a zesty chimchuri sauce. Stay for dessert (the custardy chai panna cotta with cardamom streusel is a must) or drift on over to the hotel’s Japanese whisky bar Nokori for a little night cap. —Johanna Harlow

mavericks beach

There’s nothing quite like watching the waves roll in at Mavericks Beach in Half Moon Bay. Significantly less popular than Half Moon Bay State Beach, Mavericks is the perfect place to avoid the crowds. For more of a hike, start your journey at the Pillar Point Bluff Parking Lot and it’s an easy 30-minute hike to the beach with gorgeous views. Don’t forget to bring a couple of layers, it can get chilly! — Sinead Chang

 

alviso marina county park

This 20.6-acre bayside park, a gateway to the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, runs along the slough adjacent the salt ponds of the South Bay. Ideal for walkers, bikers, birders and kayakers alike, the Alviso Marina County Park is replete with wildlife and views. —Silas Valentino

 

the stanford park hotel

 

Stanford Park Hotel’s “Welcome home!” mantra isn’t some cute throwaway line. Expect an enthusiastic welcome from everyone on staff–from the woman at the reception desk to your waiter at  Menlo Tavern, the hotel’s upscale in-house restaurant. Within its sophisticated rooms, a soothing beige interior is boldly accented with dark green and artwork celebrates the area’s agricultural past as the Valley of Heart’s Delight. For additional ambiance, make sure to secure a courtyard room which offers garden views of maple trees and a plethora of thriving plants. During the summer months, you’ll hear the intoxicating strain of music through the windows of these rooms as musicians perform in the courtyard from 6 to 9PM nightly. Also on the premises, you’ll find cozy fires absolutely everywhere—so spend some time curled in the zebra print armchairs by the lobby hearth, then bring a s’mores kit to the outdoor firepits. One more perk is this locale’s walk-ability. Palo Alto’s University Avenue is just 15 minutes away and a refreshing morning stroll to Verve Coffee Roasters will get your day started on the right foot. —Johanna Harlow

san jose jazz summer fest

 

Get ready for the San Jose Jazz Summer Fest where a heady number of performances around San Jose will grace nine stages this August over its three-day span.  Sensational talent ranges from Grace Kelly to Marcus Miller, Chickenbone Slim & The Biscuits to The Soul Rebels, Sunny War to Cimafunk. Whether you prefer modern jazz, big band, blues, Latin, funk, New Orleans, or hip-hop, there’s guaranteed to be a performance that gets you groovin’. —Johanna Harlow

hotel citrine/shoreline date (over)night

In theory, catching a favorite band live at Shoreline Amphitheatre has the makings of an epic date night but the hassle of getting in and out of the venue can put a damper on the evening. Just opened in 2021, Palo Alto’s Hotel Citrine caught our eye as a way to turn a Shoreline show into a memorable staycation or way to celebrate a milestone event. After booking a one-bedroom suite with its own private patio, we were met with glasses of complimentary champagne at check-in. We enjoyed delicious nibbles from the hotel’s Wild Onion restaurant by a fire pit poolside before making the quick (1.5 mile) mile jaunt to Shoreline, where we opted for the VIP deck and seating. The easy return to the hotel followed by a yummy brunch the next morning confirmed this is a winning combination. —Sheri Baer

edgewood park

Edgewood park makes you feel on top of the world. There are several routes to get to the top of the hill that stands in the center of the preserve, but my favorite is straight up the front. It’s more exciting. I go here to watch the fog roll in from Half Moon Bay and see the sun setting on the Peninsula. Admittedly, there’s not much to do here. However, if you need a spot to simply be alone or a place to go with your chill friends— Edgewood is my sole recommendation. —Gabby Occhipinti

capitola

Capitola is quite possibly the cutest town in Santa Cruz. With several colorfully decorated homes and a simple-life vibe, Capitola has been a sanctuary of sorts for me since high school. The town has some pretty adorable shops and restaurants. Get some fries to go at Zelda’s or a bigger-than-your-face slice of pizza at Pizza My Heart and take it to the beach right next door. Pro tip 1: go to Panache to create your own heavenly lotion. Pro tip 2: go to Surf N Shack for classic Santa Cruz beachwear and the cutest pomeranian store-dog. —Gabby Occhipinti

the church of nativity

I’m not a Catholic but if I were, this is where I would come to pray. This sweet, mostly overlooked church built in the late 1800’s rests in its lush surroundings in an agreeably idyllic way, with fountains running and the reverend’s stately home gracing the grounds. The church’s highlight is its towering steeple that wistfully reaches out into the sky. There’s even a kindly wooden bench to sit in while contemplating the world. —Sloane Citron

butano state park

The secret to the best day ever is a trip to Butano State Park. I have a hard time letting this secret go public, but I digress. Head over to Pescadero in Half Moon Bay and get some take out at Taqueria De Amigos inside the gas station. I know what you’re thinking— trust me on this one. Otherwise, walk across the street to Duarte’s Tavern and feel like you just stepped into a 1970’s diner. After you’ve fueled up, head east on Pescadero Creek Road until you see signs for Butano State Park. Hiking in Butano has a way of getting all the problems out of you. I’ve never left the park with unresolved internal conflict. It works like magic. —Gabby Occhipinti

san jose broadway

 

Looking for a standout show? Reserve your tickets for San Jose Broadway’s latest season. We attended Pretty Woman: The Musical, which made sure to pay tribute to the film that paved it’s way by revisiting Julia Robert’s iconic outfits, performing Roy Orbison’s memorable song of the same title and honoring all the little moments you fell in love with during the 1990 rom-com. That said, the production also brought its own fresh take with catchy songs and breathed new life into the supporting characters (both the lovable Hollywood Boulevard rabble and the charming hotel staff). Though this musical only showed for a week, the upcoming season promises to introduce you to plenty more colorful characters who are sure to command the stage of the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts. —Johanna Harlow

bike ride to breakfast

Biking through the hills of Woodside up and over towards Skyline can be slightly strenuous. However, right before the road gets too narrow to share, you’ll come across the cutest cabin you ever did see—Alice’s Restaurant. Alice’s parking lot is packed with motorcyclists in leather vests and groups of young families being adventurous and precious. If you live in the area and want to be a part of the fun, I’d recommend heading up on a Sunday (bike or bikeless) to feast in the forest… just 15 minutes from home. —Gabby Occhipinti