I'm trying to plan a weekend getaway for my wife's birthday and am stumped. We live in Los Angeles and are in our early 30s.

We love romance and spa stuff but have been known to go "active" as well. Budget is not too much of an issue but Bacara in Santa Barbara isn't happening if you get my drift.

Originally I thought I'd take her to DisneyWorld in Orlando (she worked there in college so it is sentimental) but then thought staying in-state and trying to do something driving distance would be more appropriate since we are trying to go to Italy in July.

So, any suggestions? Will drive up to, say, 2 1/2 or 3 hours if its worth it.

Thoughts have been Catalina, Palm Springs (Two Bunch Palms worth the price?). Would do a B&B if we don't go crazy with boredom. I don't golf but am partial to the so-cal style resort/spas if its nice.

Thanks in advance.

Have you ever been to Idyllwild? Might be too low key for you but we think it's a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle. The Strawberry Creek Inn has a cottage that might be available, with its own whirlpool and fireplace. Not much to do besides window shop, dine and hike in Idyllwild, but we enjoy sitting outside in the evening, watching a romantic video and enjoying the change of pace.

I have two suggestions which are very different from each other, both wonderful in different ways. Look at: Windy Point Inn in Fawnskin, just outside of Big Bear (www.windypointinn.co); and Chateau du Sureau in Oakhurst, just outside of Yosemite (www.chateaudusureau.com). Very romantic!

There is also a spa in Ojai.

I would also suggest you check out Ojai.