Above photo courtesy Trixie Motel
With Barbiecore sweeping catwalks, red carpets, and interior décor around the world, pink-themed travel is also having a moment, with searches for pink hotels on Hotels.com® seeing an impressive 190% increase in searches this year compared to last year.
With the highly anticipated Barbie movie featuring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, directed by the talented Greta Gerwig, set to hit theatres in July, Visit California wanted to offer travellers the chance to live out their Barbie dreams in the Golden State.
If that’s your jam, here are some top locations in California where you can indulge in the ultimate Barbie experience!
Greater Palm Springs, CA
Escape to the resort oasis of Greater Palm Springs, where Barbie enthusiasts will find themselves surrounded by all things pink. From fully pink hotels to actual Barbie displays, this destination has it all. Les Cactus and Sands Hotel & Spa boast stunning pink exteriors, perfect for an Instagram-worthy Barbiecore stay.
At Sands Hotel, be sure to visit the Pink Cabana, a restaurant designed by the renowned Martyn Lawrence Bullard. For a unique experience, check out Trixie Motel, a newly renovated property designed by the legendary drag queen Trixie Mattel, which exudes vibrant and, of course, pink aesthetics.
Fleur Noire Hotel, a boldly reimagined boutique hotel, features hand-painted pink California flower murals and a guests-only speakeasy champagne rosé bar called La Boisson, offering a Barbie-like setting.
And don’t forget to stop by the Saguaro Hotel, known for its colourful exteriors and eccentric Barbie display in the lobby. For even more Greater Palm Springs Barbie inspiration, check out the curated Barbie doll collection on Instagram @tinypalmsprings, inspired by life in this fabulous destination.
Santa Barbara, CA
The enchanting American Riviera is a dream destination for Barbiecore fanatics. After basking on the beach or exploring the trendy State Street, visit Lotusland, one of the world’s top gardens, showcasing over 3,000 plants from around the globe. Within the grounds, you’ll find Cuesta Linda, a beautiful pink Mediterranean estate that perfectly complements the Barbie lifestyle.
And when it’s time to refuel, don’t miss Andersen’s Bakery, a family-owned establishment with over 40 years of history featuring pink interior walls and black-and-white checkered floors, creating the ideal setting for a girls’ brunch or tea.
San Diego, CA
San Diego, Southern California’s vibrant waterfront city, offers a blushing oasis for Barbie lovers. Take advantage of the picturesque Barbie backdrops, like the monochromatic pink wall at Pigment or the pastel pink and floral mural outside Native Poppy, perfect for capturing Barbie-inspired photos.
For a luxurious retreat, The Pink Lady of La Jolla, also known as La Valencia Hotel, awaits with its vintage pink exterior, romantic courtyards, and breathtaking ocean views, paying homage to the timeless elegance of the 1920s.
Start your day like a true Barbie at The Pink Rose Cafe, where rose-coloured coffees, teas, and lemonades are served amidst a decor of pink chairs and flowers.
And don’t miss the iconic Morning Glory for brunch, featuring bright pink booths, tables, and eclectic breakfast offerings.
San Luis Obispo County, CA
Indulge your inner Barbiecore fan at the magnificent Madonna Inn, a historical pink palace located in the hills of San Luis Obispo County. With its exuberant decor and 110 elaborate themed rooms, the Madonna Inn offers an unforgettable experience.
Step into the fairytale-like Old Mill Room and embrace the Fashion Fairytale moments, or venture into the Pony Room, where “Show ‘n Ride Equestrian” Barbies can hop on a carousel steed.
While every themed room provides fantastic photo opportunities, room 218 embodies the essence of Barbiecore. Named the “Carin” room after a Swiss expression meaning “endearment,” this enchanting space features wall-to-wall bright pink hues, two private balconies, and lovebirds nesting on the tiles in the shower.
To complete your enchanting escape, visit The Bakery at Madonna Inn and savour their renowned pink champagne cake. And don’t forget to indulge your athletic side on the Barbie and Ken tennis court, where you can channel Barbie’s stylish and sporty persona.
