A mere 45-minute drive from San Francisco lies Half Moon Bay, an idyllic enclave and truly the perfect place to spend some time away from the big city. Horseback ride along a scenic beach, play golf on a spectacular course overlooking the ocean or browse through the numerous shops and art galleries in the historic section. If you decide to stay, as many do, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at any of the town's fine restaurants. Then check into an enchanting bed and breakfast, a charming inn or boutique hotel. Your Half Moon Bay experience will not be soon forgotten.

Just 12 miles southeast of Santa Barbara, Carpinteria (called “Carp” by locals) is a charming, coastal community with a pedestrian-friendly main street (Linden Avenue), mom-and-pop shops, gourmet cafés and antique stores. The pavement leads to Carpinteria’s sparkling beaches, including Carpinteria State Beach, dubbed “the world’s safest beach.” Beyond the shoreline, Carpinteria’s foothills and verdant mountains are peppered with flower nurseries, polo fields, avocado orchards and horse ranches.

Harrison Hot Springs is a favourite getaway destination because it’s a lakeside resort atmosphere only two hours from Vancouver, yet it feels like you’re much further away. You’ve got a gorgeous drive through the Fraser Valley to get there, especially if you take the slower and pastoral Hwy 7. You’ve got the charming village of Harrison Hot Springs along the south shore of Harrison Lake with its beaches and promenades, and there are hot springs to enjoy, provincial parks to explore, and mountainous scenery galore.

You'll find crashing waves off Cabo's Pacific coast and sheltered, calm water on the Sea of Cortez. Given those options, Cabo has built a rare reputation for both excellent outdoor sports (big-game fishing, diving and kayaking, among others) and pure beach relaxation. Of course, there's also great nightlife. Cabo’s resorts, hotels and inns cater to everyone from honeymooners to families to Hollywood stars seeking a weekend getaway.

For a small city, Columbus has a lot to offer. Once somewhat eclipsed by Cincinnati and Cleveland, Ohio's capital city has emerged to offer visitors world-class culture, sports, entertainment and a vibe all of its own. Enjoy a day at the zoo, aquarium or the nationally-known science centre. Art lovers will relish the collections at the Columbus Museum of Art and gardeners will revel in the magnificent roses at Whetstone Park. The Franklin Conservatory and Botanical Garden also boasts beautiful flora and fauna. And the city is chock-full of government landmarks, both historic and modern. Spend the weekend savouring celebrated attractions and exploring unique neighbourhoods, all served up in Columbus's welcoming, friendly style.

Even the sands of Playa Conchal are special, comprised of the silky remnants of millions of crushed conch shells. Frolic, swim and snorkel in the warm, crystalline waters by day; at night, camp out on the beach under the stars. Guided rafting, adventure and nocturnal turtle-watching tours are available—and exhilarating.