Fun and Excitement on the Way to Santa Barbara

As you head out of town, make a detour off Interstate 15 to see Seven Magic Mountains near Jean. The art installation by Ugo Rondinone is a collection of rainbow-colored rocks, stacked on top of each other, reaching 30 feet high. The attraction appears out of nowhere, almost like a hallucination in the middle of the desert, but it's just a short drive from the main highway with a convenient parking lot. There's no admission charge. Just stop by, marvel at the spectacle and snap a few photos before continuing on your road trip.

Almost any road trip between Vegas and L.A. requires a stop in Baker, a small town designed with road warriors in mind, offering gas stations and fast-food chains for travelers seeking a break from the monotony of Interstate 15.
Your best bet for a late breakfast or early lunch is the Mad Greek Cafe. The restaurant specializes in fast-casual Greek food with a loaded menu that includes hand-sliced gyros, babaganoush and a fried cheese snack known as saganaki. Even the milkshakes have a Mediterranean influence with date and baklava flavors available.
After placing an order, walk across the street to check out the World's Tallest Thermometer, a kitschy roadside attraction that stretches 134 feet into the sky and is fully operational.

After driving through Los Angeles traffic, you've finally arrived at the Pacific Ocean. Soak it all in with a walk on the Santa Monica Pier, a historic destination that dates back to 1909 and at one point, was known as the final stop on Route 66.
Browse gift shops, ride a carousel and marvel at trapeze artists in action. Make sure to walk all the way to the end, where fishermen enjoy the serenity of their environment while waiting for a tug on the line.
If you're looking for a quick bite to tide you over until dinner, try Pier Burger, Japadog (Asian hot dogs), or Soda Jerks (a 1950s-style diner with ice cream sundaes and chocolate Cokes).

After leaving Santa Monica, your drive continues along the Pacific Ocean in spectacular fashion on the Pacific Coast Highway. Don't resist the temptation to pull over and soak in the scenery for a moment. Point Dume is a great spot to park, check out the views and if you're doing good on time, walk the steps down to the beach. The blue waters of Malibu are an incredible sight. Take a few minutes to appreciate the waves and mild breeze.

The Hilton is a reasonably priced resort near the beach in Santa Barbara, avoiding the congestion of the city's downtown area. It's incredibly convenient with ample parking close to individual hotel rooms. Accommodations are clean and contemporary with patios and balconies, including some that overlook the water. Pets are welcome and given a goodie bag. Check in and get settled before heading out to dinner.
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The Lark is your best option for dinner in the Funk Zone, a district known for its art galleries, boutiques and wine tasting rooms. Executive Chef Jason Paluska presents an ever-evolving menu based on fresh seasonal Central Coast ingredients and wine from regional vineyards. The dining room is a charming, rustic space with a 24-seat communal table as the centerpiece.
Reservations are highly recommended. Call 805-284-0370 in advance to secure a table.

Take your time returning to the hotel with a comforting ocean breeze to appreciate. If you're not quite ready for bed, the Hilton has patio seating with fire pits at its lobby restaurant to enjoy one more glass of wine before turning in for the night.