Greater Palm Springs
In California’s resort oasis, there’s no shortage of Barbie – whether it’s fully pink hotels or actual Barbie displays! For those looking for an ultra-pink place to stay, Les Cactus and Sands Hotel & Spa offer beautiful pink exteriors for a Barbie-inspired stay. While at Sands, be sure to dine at the Pink Cabana, designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard.
For those looking for a new spot to check out, Trixie Motel is a must. Designed by legendary drag queen Trixie Mattel and featured on an HGTV series, this newly renovated property is an ode to Trixie’s style – vibrant and of course, extremely pink! Lastly, the Saguaro Hotel is not only an iconic spot due to its colourful exteriors, but it even features an eccentric Barbie display case in the lobby.
Pink has popped up all over the desert. From Pink Modernism examples like Pink Palace and The Valentine Palm Springs to the pink colour of Mount San Jacinto at sunrise and Bella da Ball’s hair. For even more Greater Palm Springs Barbie inspiration, check out @tinypalmsprings on Instagram, which is a curated Barbie doll collection inspired by life in the destination.
San Diego
Southern California’s vibrant waterfront city of San Diego provides a blushing oasis for Barbie lovers. With picturesque Barbie backdrops like the pink monochromatic wall at Pigment or the pastel pink and floral mural outside of Native Poppy, the city is filled with the perfect place for a Barbie-inspired photo opp.
For the Barbie lover looking to relax and unwind, the luxurious La Valencia Hotel, known as The Pink Lady of La Jolla, offers a vintage pink exterior with romantic courtyards, breathtaking views of the ocean, and an homage to the timeless elegance of the 1920’s. Request a visit from the Cocktail Butler, serving La Valencia’s signature “Pink Lady” drink.
And there are plenty of pink restaurant options including The Pink Rose Cafe, adorned with rose-coloured coffees, teas, and lemonades, the cafe is also lined from wall to wall with pink chairs, flowers, and even Barbie prints in the bathroom. Also, check out Holy Matcha for a pink and green latte or Cloak + Petal for sushi.
Los Angeles County
There is no shortage of Barbie experiences in and around the city of Angels. For perfectly pink accommodations try The Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hills or The Langham in Pasadena, both legendary and luxurious properties. The Langham offers iconic pink macarons and has a pink taxi out front, both perfect for photo ops!
For restaurants, pick from a variety of options all over town. From the iconic Pink’s Hot Dogs in Hollywood to Pink & Boujee Tacos in Downtown LA. There’s also the very cute and very pink, Cobi’s in Santa Monica, The Hideaway in Beverly Hills, and Rose & Blanc Tea Room in Koreatown. And don’t forget either Trejo’s Coffee & Donuts or Milk Bar Cake Shop to satisfy a sweet tooth.
While in LA be sure to wander through the summer rose gardens at The Huntington, snap a photo at the Pink Wall at the Paul Smith flagship store on Melrose Ave., roller skate like Barbie and Ken in Venice with rentals from Perry’s Cafe & Beach Rentals, and check out the World of Barbie (with ticket dates extended to 4th September).
Santa Barbara
The American Riviera is the perfect place for a Barbie fanatic. In addition to the Barbie lifestyle, spent lounging on the beach or shopping on State Street, visitors can head to Lotusland – which is one of the world’s top gardens, featuring over 3,000 plants from all over the world. Set on the grounds is a beautiful pink Mediterranean estate – Cuesta Linda.
When it’s time to eat, don’t miss the renowned Andersen’s Bakery, which is a family-owned bakery that’s operated in Santa Barbara for over 40 years and features pink interior walls with black and white checkered floors, perfect for a girls' brunch or tea.
Check out Harbor View Inn for a beachfront hotel with a pool perfect for any Barbie. And for other colourful, Instagrammable moments, check out the Santa Barbara Chromatic Gate, the County Courthouse and the Lobero building.
San Luis Obispo County
Located in the hills of San Luis Obispo, the Madonna Inn is known for its exuberant decor and 110 elaborate themed rooms. A true Barbie fanatic can embrace the Fashion Fairytale moments in the fairytale-like Old Mill Room, while “Show ‘n Ride Equestrian” Barbies can climb aboard a carousel steed in the Pony Room. While all the themed rooms present photo opportunities, it is room 218 that is peak Barbiecore. Dubbed the “Carin” room as a Swiss Expression for "endearment," this enchanting room is adorned with wall to wall bright pink hues, two private balconies, and lovebirds nesting on the tiles in the shower.
To tie this enchanting escape together, step into The Bakery at Madonna Inn for the famous pink champagne cake. Then head outside to channel Barbie’s athletic side on the ideal Barbie and Ken tennis court - she’s stylish and sporty.
Image credit: Madonna Inn