By Sophia Pilot

February 19, 2021

For Malibu High students, this will be the second Spring Break during a pandemic, but this time we are not confined to the borders of our own home. On January 25th, California Governor Gavin Newson lifted the Stay At Home Order, which allowed popular travel destinations to reopen under strict safety protocols. Here are a few COVID-compliant day trips to get you off your computer and outdoors this Spring Break. 

Under normal circumstances, Malibu High’s marine biology classes would take a field trip to one of the Channel Islands to apply their studies. Last year, the trip was postponed, and then canceled. Unfortunately, this year looks no different for marine biology students. Spring Break is the perfect opportunity to take your newfound knowledge to the field. The Island Packers that transport you to and from the islands are now operating with strict safety protocols; masks are required, capacity is limited, sanitation is enforced, and eating or drinking is prohibited. Tickets are available for reservation on https://islandpackers.com/, where you will find more information about the available tours. 

Located 22 miles off Long Beach, Catalina Island is a popular tourist destination, welcoming over 1,000,000 visitors a year – prior to the pandemic. Catalina Island Company has announced that most hotels, tours, and restaurants are back in business after the Stay at Home Order was lifted. Health requirements and travel restrictions can change, but for now, the Catalina Island Company is accepting reservations starting February 10th, 2021. Boats leave from Dana Point and San Pedro to the island. For more information regarding the reopening, visit https://www.lovecatalina.com/covid-19/whats-open/. 

If you’re prone to sea-sickness and prefer a quick road trip, Ojai, a quaint town with organic farmers markets, outdoor trials, and farm-to-table cuisine, is just an hour’s drive north of Malibu. The landmark, Ojai Valley Inn, a luxury resort is a five-minute drive from Nordhoff High School, one of Malibu High’s rivals in the Citrus Coast League.  Ojai is home to some of the best hiking trails in California, with levels ranging from easy to extreme, you’re bound to find a perfect trail to immerse yourself in nature during Spring Break. 

 If traveling is not an option, or you just want to stay home and study for the AP Tests, there are lots to do in your own backyard. Malibu is a popular vacation destination to people across the globe as evident by the beachgoers and traffic galore. If you want to join the crowd, the beach is a free and socially distant option. If you need some relaxation amidst this crazy time, start your day with a socially distant meditation class at the Mindry in the Malibu Country Mart. Grab lunch at one of your favorite restaurants, and then watch the sun go down at the beach.

 Traveling may look a little different during a pandemic, but there are still ways to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Be mindful and stay up to date with the various health protocols when traveling. All you need is a mask and gas in your car to take a socially distant day trip this Spring Break.