The Best De-Stress Locations Outside of Los Angeles!

Slow down for a minute, take a break and breathe! Do you ever step back for a moment to just focus on yourself? In the midst of everyday life and hectic work days, it is important to find ways to that boost your energy level and strengthen your mind. Don’t worry- we know exactly what you need to do. You need a short getaway from your fabulous life on assignment with KPG Healthcare!

San Diego

Do I hear the beach calling? When was the last time you took a trip down to one of California’s best surf towns? There’s no better time than now! San Diego is the ultimate location to unplug and reset. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not rent a surfboard or kayak and paddle to the waves? Even just relaxing on the warm beach will do good for your soul. If you aren’t a beach person, there are plenty of other activities waiting for you in San Diego. Take a walk around beautiful La Jolla Cove, sip on a fresh smoothie and settle in the Ellen Browning Scripps Park with your favorite book. If you enjoy the cultural scene, Old Town is a must do! Here you’ll find the best Mexican restaurants in town (including impressive margaritas!) and unique boutiques.

(One of our recruiters, Tiko, at Big Bear this year!)

Big Bear

Tired of big cities, car smoke and people running around? I hear you! What better getaway than to beautiful Big Bear?! Just a couple of hours away, the thick forests, peaceful lake and mountains of Big Bear are just the things to bring calmness into your life. Put on your skiis and start adventuring down the slopes! After flying down the different slopes, the perfect hot chocolate is waiting for you in the ski lodge. Once you’ve had enough of skiing for the day, drive down to Big Bear Lake and enjoy a walk in the wild, followed by a stroll in downtown. But this is not the typical downtown area- the quaint nature of the fun gift shops and unique restaurants remind you that you are far from the city. End the day with a glass of red wine and get cozy by the fire.

Santa Barbara

The most adorable town in Southern California! It’s not a wonder why people seem so happy here- from the deep blue beach in the front, protected by the magical mountains in the back, Santa Barbara has it all. Just a twenty minute drive from downtown, you have access to to waterfall hikes, Tangerine Falls and Seven Falls. Tangerine Falls is a great reminder of the importance of spending time in nature. It is a truly remarkable hike where all stress simply disappears. On the other hand, Seven Falls is a hike for someone who likes a little challenge- including having to do some jumping around on the rocks. But the challenge is worth every step once you reach the incredible view! Another fun fact Santa Barbara is a mini Napa, filled with a handful of vineyards just a 30 minute drive away in Santa Ynez! But if you want to stay close, definitely take a stop at Func Zone, where many of the tasting rooms are gathered together with cool art & vintage shops. Finally, you can’t forget to visit Butterfly Beach in Montecito, accompanied by dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants located on the Santa Barbara Pierre.

Ojai

Have you ever reflected over your way of breathing or how it can affect your emotions? Often, we take breathing for granted, and don’t explore out of our comfort zones. Ojai is the perfect place to connect body and mind. Check in to one of Ojai’s yoga & meditation retreats where the real magic happens. Another must do is to take a guided tour and tasting at the Ojai Olive Oil Company farm. After you find the right oil for you, pop on over and take a  tour of the Ojai Farmers Market or the Museum of History and Art! There’s no lack of amazing culinary options here, either. Experience a food heaven at the Ojai Deer Lodge and order one of their famous handcrafted cocktails. There are no better ways to de-stress than combining the best pieces of yoga, farms, art, and food into one melting pot. Namaste!

Malibu

Love, beach, and HORSES! Horses are known for their restorative powers in bringing pure joy and happiness. There are several great ranches around Malibu, and you also have the choice to ride along the gorgeous beach, or other scenic trails near fields, rivers and mountains. Continue the day and keep in tune with the ranch theme by stopping at The Old Place, a restaurant with a truly authentic western vibe. Here you’ll enjoy food prepared the old school way-  over the fire! Malibu is another California beach paradise, so you definitely can’t leave without a complete visit to the beach. Bring your favorite sunglasses, stop by an ice cream shop and unplug for a couple of hours  near the shore. Catch the sunset on the famous Malibu pier with relaxing view over the Pacific Ocean.

KPG Healthcare is proud to staff some of the best hospitals in the Nation. Looking for your next career move and interested in contributing to one of California’s most renowned hospitals in the nursing division? Whether you’re interested in travel nursing, per diem, allied, locum tenens or permanent placement, KPG Healthcare is your trusted partner for high quality, rewarding career opportunities. Contact us today!