great road trips from los angeles

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations
• Los Angeles

10 Best Road Trips From Los Angeles

It's about the journey and the destination.

Los Angeles may be a destination in its own right, but one of the best parts about living in this Southern California city (or even visiting) is just how easy it is to drive a few hours and be in a completely different environment.

Thanks to its proximity to beaches, mountains, a few famed national parks, and even the Mexico border, Los Angeles is a prime hub for road tripping adventures. With that in mind, read on for a few of our favorite road trips from Los Angeles.

Joshua Tree, California

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

If you're looking for a short drive that will somehow transport you to another planet, make the trek to Joshua Tree, California . The area, located about 130 miles from Los Angeles, is home to a famed national park that comes stacked with its namesake tree. But don't stop there. Visit at places like the Integratron, a rejuvenation center designed by ufologist George Van Tassel, and the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum, an outdoor venue filled with trash-to-treasure pieces by artist Noah Purifoy. Dine in a few of the area's best restaurants, too, including Frontier Café, La Copine, and, of course,the famed Pappy and Harriet's.

How to Get There: From downtown Los Angeles, hop on I-10 East to CA-62 East.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Driving to Las Vegas is a rite of passage for many living in Los Angeles. Packing a car and heading to the desert city always comes with a lot of excitement, knowing you're in for a weekend of debauchery on the other side. But don't let the journey pass you by. While en route to Sin City, stop in at places like Barstow, home to the Route 66 Museum and Desert Discovery Center, which holds the oldest meteorite in the U.S. For a longer pit stop, make your way to the Mojave National Preserve and walk through the lava tubes to feel Mother Nature's power.

How to Get There: Take 1-10 East until you see the twinkling Vegas lights come into view.

Big Sur, California

No road trip from Los Angeles is more iconic than the one you can take down Highway 1 . The route, which hugs the California coast from Orange County to Mendocino, is simply stunning from beginning to end. And here's the best part: No matter where you stop, you'll find a great end point. But for a truly famed getaway, drive north from Los Angeles to Big Sur. The coastal drive is famous for its clifftop views. Maximize your visit with hiking in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, snapping Instagram-worthy photos at Bixby Creek Bridge, and taking a stroll down Sand Dollar Beach.

How to Get There: Hop on US-101 North to CA-1 North (a.k.a. Highway 1) and follow the ocean to Big Sur. It should take about six hours to get from Downtown Los Angeles to Big Sur.

Rosarito, Mexico

Los Angeles is just a few hours from the U.S.-Mexico border, making an international road trip easy. For an idyllic escape, head south to Rosarito, a sleepy surfer's paradise located just down the road from its louder party-centric neighbor, Tijuana. In Rosarito, it's best to dedicate an entire vacation to lounging on the beach, paddling in the waves, and drinking cocktails with tiny umbrellas. However, if you need more, you can always hike Cerro El Coronel, shop in Plaza Pabellón, and visit the charming fishing village of Popotla just down the street.

How to Get There: Take US-101 South to I-5 South all the way over the border.

Napa Valley, California

California's wine country is a must when it comes to road trips from L.A. The drive to Napa may be long, but it's a pretty direct shot, and once you're there, you'll be rewarded with gorgeous vineyard views and plenty of vino to sip and savor. Beyond hiring a driver to take you on a winery tour for the day, you can also see Napa from a different perspective by hopping in a hot air balloon. Visitors can also tour the area via bike or take in a little more culture by paying a visit to one of the numerous art galleries and museums.

How to Get There: Take I-5 North to CA-12 West and CA-29 North until you hit your destination.

Sedona, Arizona

If you're on the hunt for a bit of spiritual renewal, head to Sedona. The stunning Arizona town is well-known for its mystical powers, including several vortexes that are said to be a connection between this universe and others. Take in all the red rock beauty with a hike on Devil's Bridge Trail, visit the Cathedral Rock vortex, and cap off the trip with shopping for a few local souvenirs in the area's Uptown neighborhood.

How to Get There: Take I-10 East to I-17 North. It's a lengthy trip, so plan for a pit stop in Joshua Tree or Palm Springs along the way.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is undoubtedly a popular road trip destination, topping many travelers' must-see lists — and for good reason. The national park's awe-inspiring views are the stuff of legend and its hiking trails are second to none. During your Grand Canyon visit, take some time to either trek part of its trail system, or if you're feeling up to it, try a rim-to-rim hike that will take you to the bottom and back again. (Just make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks along the way and avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day.) Stop in at the Grand Canyon Village for supplies, or treat yourself to a different view with a helicopter tour.

How to Get There: Follow I-15 North and I-40 East to AZ-64 North/West. Hit Route 66 in Williams, then take exit 165 from I-40 East to AZ-64 North.

Zion National Park, Utah

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Another stellar road trip destination for those looking to explore America's national parks is Zion. Much like the Grand Canyon, this park also offers fantastic views, but it has the advantage when it comes to drives as it's also home to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. This route allows travelers to traverse the park in their vehicle, making it accessible to more visitors. Enjoy the drive, which hugs the Virgin River, then make your way to the nearby Grafton ghost town to see what life was like for settlers making their way West.

How to Get There: It's essentially a straight shot on I-15 North. This is another lengthy drive, but the route cuts through Las Vegas, which serves as an ideal stopover.

Mammoth, California

No matter the time of year, taking a road trip to Mammoth is a good idea. In the spring, the wildflowers bloom and the bucolic scenery comes to life. During the summer, you can take a dip in Mammoth Lakes, and come fall, enjoy a hike and watching the leaves change to vibrant hues of burnt orange, red, and yellow. However, the winter months are when this place really shines, thanks to its renowned ski resort . Don't overlook the healing hot springs in the winter either, which will soothe your muscles after a hike, dip, or ski day.

How to Get There: Take US-101 North to I-5 North, and follow that to CA-14 North. Then, hop on US-395 North until you reach Mammoth.

Lake Tahoe, California

Last, but certainly not least, is a road trip to Lake Tahoe, which straddles California and Nevada. The area offers plenty of outdoor fun, including lounging by the lake, hiking endless trails, and skiing down groomed runs at a number of nearby resorts or taking a backcountry excursion. And although Lake Tahoe is certainly beautiful in its own right, we recommend taking your time on this route as there are plenty of spots to stop along the way, like the Inyo National Forest in Bishop, Mammoth, and even a quick detour in Yosemite National Park . Because life — and travel — should also be about the journey, not just the destination.

How to Get There: Take ​​CA-14 North and US-395 North to US-50 West in South Lake Tahoe.

Related Articles

Protect Your Trip »

The 20 best weekend getaways from los angeles.

Escape the LA hustle with a weekend retreat to nearby shores.

The Best Weekend Getaways From LA

Getty Images

Explore national parks, beaches, wine country and more away from LA.

If you're tired of sitting in traffic on the 405 or need a break from your Zoom calls in the City of Angels, you're in luck: Los Angeles sits close to a wide variety of vacation spots that are perfect for a weekend away. The options can range from scenic mountain destinations to relaxing desertscapes to small coastal towns – or even to lively Las Vegas. To help you pick the right destination for your much-needed escape, U.S. News evaluated expert and traveler opinion to find the best weekend getaways from LA. Whatever you choose for your weekend trip, it's time to take a break from the bustle of Los Angeles and head out for a new adventure with your best friends , significant other or entire family .

See more of Los Angeles:  Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles:

About one hour or less:, long beach, california, catalina island, california, newport beach, california, laguna beach, california, about two hours or less:, ojai, california, temecula, california, santa barbara, california, big bear lake, california, palm springs, california, about three hours or less:, la jolla, california, joshua tree national park, california, los alamos, california, about four hours or less:, san luis obispo, california, paso robles, california, about five hours or less:, death valley national park, california, about six hours or less:, mammoth lakes, california, carmel, california, a quick flight:, puerto vallarta, mexico, vancouver, british columbia.

Long Beach boasts many iconic attractions – the Queen Mary ship and the Aquarium of the Pacific , for example – and thus makes for a wonderful weekend getaway or daytrip. Fill your time in this California city (only about 25 miles south of Los Angeles) with shopping, dining, art and roaming the coastline: Junipero Beach is one of the top LA-area beaches . You can start your trip on Fourth Street, also called Retro Row, to explore offerings such as the famous vintage shop Meow. Visitors can also catch an indie film at the recently renovated Art Theatre before riding a bike through the streets of Long Beach and browsing its other cultural attractions.

Long Beach is one of the most ethnically diverse U.S. cities, with a variety of cultures represented in its food scene. Options span Cambodian fusion at A&J Seafood Shack to Peruvian staples at El Pollo Imperial to fine Italian dining at L'Opera downtown. For an overnight stay, you'll find popular chain hotels around downtown and Shoreline Village, such as Hotel Maya – a DoubleTree by Hilton or other Westin, Hilton and Hyatt lodging options.

See more of Long Beach:  Things to Do | Hotels

Rather than taking a road trip from Los Angeles, how about hopping on a boat? Catalina Island , located a little more than 20 miles from the Southern California shoreline, is accessible from the San Pedro neighborhood of LA or from Long Beach via a Catalina Express ferry. The island is full of adventure, romance, relaxation and sightseeing both on land and in the ocean. Once you arrive in Avalon, the main city, you can take a walking tour at the historic Catalina Casino, rent a golf cart to cruise around or experience the thrill of an ecotour by zip line. Vacationers may also enjoy hitting the beach at Descanso Beach Club or unwinding at the 15,000-square-foot Island Spa Catalina.

Seafood fans can enjoy fresh lobster at The Lobster Trap, among other popular dining options. For an unforgettable weekend stay, book a room at the sophisticated Mt Ada. This romantic bed-and-breakfast features a wraparound deck with expansive ocean views. Guests have access to their own golf cart, as well as complimentary breakfast, lunch and snacks. Just outside of Avalon, Hamilton Cove has private villas perched on a hillside overlooking the Catalina coastline – or, if you want to rough it in the outdoors, campsites are also available at the island's campgrounds.

Newport Beach sits in the heart of coastal Orange County , about 45 miles south of downtown Los Angeles. Getting out on Newport Harbor is a must in this nautical hot spot: Whether you go by yacht, electric boat, whale watching excursion , paddleboard or even on a floating tiki bar, an unforgettable experience awaits. You can dock at dozens of waterfront restaurants along the harbor specializing in seasonal and locally sourced cuisine. Two of the most popular Newport Beach communities to explore are Balboa Island – be sure to try the famed frozen banana dessert – and Balboa Peninsula, ideal for surfing or leisurely biking. Travelers in search of the best shoreline can check out Corona del Mar State Beach to experience firsthand why it's such a beloved spot.

For upscale shopping and dining, the trendy Lido Marina Village is the place to be seen. After enjoying lunch at Malibu Farm Lido or picking up some couture pieces at the elysewalker store, plan for a sleepover at the Lido House to soak in the hotel's Cape Cod -inspired aesthetic. If you have a posh pet with you on your weekend getaway, you can splurge for the Pampered Pooch Package at Balboa Bay Resort , where fur babies and "paw-rents" alike can enjoy a luxurious stay.

See more of Newport Beach:  Things to Do | Hotels

About 50 miles south of Los Angeles you'll find picturesque Laguna Beach, also known as the California Riviera. This chic coastal town in Orange County comes complete with high-end boutiques, five-star accommodations, gourmet restaurants and art galleries galore. If you plan your weekend trip for the summer, you may be able to catch one of the world-famous art festivals hosted by Laguna Beach, such as the Sawdust Art Festival – but art lovers can also take a self-guided walking tour that showcases the city's public art any time of year. Travelers seeking outdoor adventure will have plenty of opportunities, whether you opt to scuba dive in a kelp forest, peruse tide pools in Heisler Park , or head to 7,000-acre Laguna Coast Wilderness Park for hiking and mountain biking.

Laguna Beach has an abundance of upscale dining options, especially if you're looking for waterfront views or a unique atmosphere. Enjoy sushi seaside at Hotel Laguna's Fin restaurant, listen to live jazz at The Drake or sip Champagne while watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean at the Surf & Sand Resort bar. For a luxury weekend stay, the Montage Laguna Beach resort features seaside balconies and an elegant indoor/outdoor spa. If you're craving a cozy canyon environment, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is tucked into green hillsides and boasts an array of amenities, such as a golf course.

See more of Laguna Beach:  Things to Do | Hotels

If your weekend trips typically include racing around to see all the top tourist attractions, maybe you'll enjoy a change of pace in beautiful Ojai, where visitors can slow down and embrace nature. This small town, tucked into the valley of the Topatopa Mountains about 80 miles northwest of Los Angeles, is an outdoor paradise and a wellness retreat destination. Hike for miles and miles in the Los Padres National Forest (check to see if you need an Adventure Pass), kayak on Lake Casitas, embark on a rock climbing adventure or go horseback riding along the Ventura River valley.

Travelers interested in spiritual and holistic-focused establishments will find plenty in Ojai, such as The Crystal Corner, Center for Spiritual Living Ojai and Meditation Mount. Go for a deep detox with a treatment called Kuyam, which is inspired by the Chumash Native American people, at Ojai Valley Inn 's five-star Spa Ojai. Ojai Valley Inn has plenty more to offer overnight guests, with world-class dining and activities ranging from beekeeping to soap making.

You don't have to go all the way to Napa Valley for award-winning wineries . About 85 miles southeast from the City of Angels, the wineries of Temecula Valley produce more than 50 varietals of wine; this year-round vacation destination pours plenty of craft beers and spirits too. Temecula is also home to a charming Old Town, farm-to-table cuisine, relaxing spas, the massive Pechanga Resort Casino, hot air ballooning and more. The ever-evolving culinary scene, small-town atmosphere, and outdoor recreation and entertainment in Temecula Valley culminate in a spirited destination inspired by the vine. Leave the kids at home for a romantic getaway with your partner in SoCal wine country.

The charming Ponte Vineyard Inn is located in the heart of Temecula Valley, surrounded by nearly 300 acres of mature vineyards and views of rolling hills. During your weekend trip, visit the inn's on-site wine tasting rooms or hop in a motorcycle sidecar for a tour of other nearby wineries, such as Altisima Winery, Fazeli Cellars or Akash Winery.

For serene coastal vibes and seaside views about 95 miles west of LA, Santa Barbara is a great escape in Southern California – especially for pet owners, since it's one of the top dog-friendly beach destinations in the U.S. With its balmy Mediterranean climate, cultural offerings, star-studded beaches and flourishing culinary scene, it's no wonder Santa Barbara draws millions of vacationers each year. Oenophiles will have the opportunity to explore more than 30 local wineries along the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail – some, like Pali Wine Company, allow dogs. You can unleash your artistic side as you listen to live music or experience the city's colorful wall murals, galleries and museums. Take a sunset stroll along the beach , or head out on the water on a kayak or sailboat during your weekend getaway in Santa Barbara.

The high-end Hotel Californian is just steps from the Pacific Ocean and the vibrant Funk Zone – a bustling enclave of the city's best wine tasting rooms, breweries, boutique shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. The hotel boasts a rooftop pool and deck with 360-degree views alongside a Moroccan-inspired spa and myriad dining options, including a new wine tasting room that opened in March 2022. Santa Barbara has a compelling culinary scene overall, with plenty of farm-to-table options that focus on locally sourced ingredients – such as The Lark in the heart of the Funk Zone neighborhood.

See more of Santa Barbara:  Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

For a cold-weather getaway, Big Bear Lake – less than 100 miles east of LA – is a prime winter destination for skiers and snowboards, who flock to Big Bear Mountain Resort. In the warmer seasons, Big Bear Lake becomes a hub for boating, hiking and biking, so this small city in the San Bernardino National Forest makes an ideal trip year-round. You can get out on the lake in a rented pontoon boat, paddleboard, kayak and more – or, for an off-road adventure, the Big Bear Jeep Experience is a popular activity. Fuel up with a poke bowl from Tropicali, dine on Nepalese and Indian cuisine at the Himalayan Restaurant, or sip a craft brew at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company.

Although plenty of visitors opt for a daytrip to Big Bear, consider extending your getaway with a stay at the Viking-inspired Marina Riviera, which has the atmosphere of a vintage ski lodge and features fire pits, lake views and a heated pool. For budget-friendly accommodation, check out the Best Western Big Bear Chateau or the area's numerous cabin and cottage rentals on Airbnb. In the nearby community of Lake Arrowhead, guests of the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa have access to a private beach and personalized boat tours.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Big Bear Lake, California

If a desert escape is what you're craving, head to the Palm Springs area. Relaxation here may include lounging by the pool, cocktail in hand, at a stylish midcentury modern home or hotel. To explore more of what Palm Springs has to offer, visitors can hike through the desert and mountains, visit Cabot's Pueblo Museum , browse shops on Palm Canyon Drive , or take the scenic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for an incomparable view atop Mount San Jacinto (where you'll see snow in winter). One buzz-worthy new attraction in this resort city is the Palm Springs Surf Club, which features a state-of-the-art wave pool.

With Palm Springs sitting a little more than 100 miles east of Los Angeles, A-listers flock to this desert destination for much-needed rest and relaxation. You can splurge on your overnight stay to vacation like a celebrity at the Jonathan Adler-designed Parker Palm Springs luxury hotel. Tried-and-true splendor can also be found at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage , which boasts stunning views overlooking Coachella Valley . If your fur baby is in tow on this weekend trip, the new local hangout Boozehounds is a hit with dogs and owners alike; it offers a pet-friendly menu just for your pooch.

See more of Palm Springs: Things to Do | Hotels | Restaurants

Escape for a weekend to the San Diego neighborhood of La Jolla – one of the top California beach destinations , set about a 110-mile drive south from Los Angeles. Grab a snorkel mask to swim with marine life in La Jolla Cove or hike sandstone cliffs at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve . In addition to experiencing the natural world, travelers can hit some balls at world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course or browse the boutiques in La Jolla Village.

When you're not kayaking through a sea cave, admiring adorable sea lions or zipping up the road to Mount Soledad on an e-bike, you can enjoy ocean views and Mediterranean food at La Valencia Hotel , also known as "the Pink Lady of La Jolla," or dine alfresco on California cuisine under century-old olive trees at Herringbone. If you seek a romantic retreat, enjoy the soaking tub in a couples bungalow at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa . Whatever you do in La Jolla, don't miss the newcomers to town: The world's smallest species of penguins can now be found at the Birch Aquarium .

See more of San Diego: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

Experience the Zen of the desert and the majestic natural wonders that await in Joshua Tree National Park , about 130 miles east of Los Angeles (and not too far from Palm Springs). Explore the 800,000 acres of desert wilderness through hiking, biking, rock climbing , horseback riding, backpacking and photography. Before you head out, stop by the Joshua Tree Cultural Center in Twentynine Palms, California, to pick up maps, park information and safety tips; this museum space also has exhibits sharing Indigenous stories and more. As you traverse Joshua Tree, be sure to take in sights such as Skull Rock , Black Rock Canyon, Cottonwood Spring and Covington Flats.

With more than 500 campsites in the park – most of which are available by reservation – camping is one of the most accessible ways to experience an overnight stay. Or, upgrade to AutoCamp Joshua Tree, where guests sleep in stylish and modern Airstream trailers, for a glamping experience . If budget is not an issue, you may choose to rent one of the most exclusive homes in the world: the Kellogg Doolittle House.

Los Alamos, California – not to be confused with a New Mexico town of the same name – is a laid-back destination with an authentic Old West heritage; the town was created in 1876 by two ranchers donating part of their land. Only about 140 miles north of Los Angeles, Los Alamos is ideally located for a daytrip or weekend getaway – especially for couples and wine lovers – amid Santa Ynez Valley wine country. Travelers can take time to peruse the one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques that adorn Bell Street, such as the new Elder Flat Farm store.

A major highlight of Los Alamos is the proliferation of top-notch dining options. A great California destination for foodies, the town is home to the Santa Ynez Valley's only Michelin-starred restaurant: Bell's, a French-inspired bistro. The artisanal Bob's Well Bread Bakery and Pico Los Alamos, which serves upscale comfort food, are other popular local eateries. The primary lodging options in this town include the retro motel Skyview Los Alamos, the Western-themed Alamo Motel and the opulent Victorian Mansion B&B.

With 315 days of sunshine, San Luis Obispo (nicknamed SLO) is the perfect year-round weekend destination – and one of the best places to visit in California – with picturesque beaches, a burgeoning farm-to-table culinary scene, rolling vineyards and plenty of small-town charm. Kick off a long weekend with a stop at a pedestrian-friendly farmers market held on Thursday evenings along Higuera Street downtown. Other SLO activity options include shopping for one-of-a-kind items at the JunkGirls shop, taking a surfing lesson or catching a movie at the nostalgic Sunset Drive-In. There are plenty of galleries to sate art lovers, but a more unconventional tourist attraction invites visitors to help make graffiti out of chewed gum in Bubblegum Alley. For a bit of California history, wander through the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

One thing you won't want to miss is the wine. Try some Malene rose in a 1969 Airstream mobile tasting room or visit the adjacent Chamisal Vineyards in Edna Valley to sip chardonnay and pinot noir with views of the vineyards. For an overnight stay, The Kinney San Luis Obispo, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, offers a casual college town atmosphere with board games and draft beers. A stylish boutique hotel option is the one-of-a-kind Madonna Inn: Each of the more than 100 guest rooms has a different theme, such as the Caveman, Love Nest, Pioneer America and Golfer's Room.

Head to central California's wine country for a visit to charming Paso Robles, a city about 200 miles northwest of LA that's located along coastal U.S. Route 101. Paso Robles is a community of cowboys, surfers and innovators; travelers can enjoy world-class food and wine as well as inspiring art and whole-body wellness here. You'll find more than 200 wineries in the region, complemented by a variety of craft breweries, cideries and distilleries in Paso Robles. Check out about a dozen craft distilleries on the Paso Robles Distillery Trail. A can't-miss nighttime activity is a self-guided stroll through the Sensorio lights display.

Thanks to the world-class wines and family farms, Paso Robles is a mecca for delicious dining – including The Restaurant at JUSTIN; the Michelin-starred Six Test Kitchen, located inside the Tin City makers market; and Paso Market Walk, a reinvented farmers market. From rustic hideaways to glamping sites, Paso Robles also has lodging options to fit any taste and budget. For luxury accommodations, consider the boutique Hotel Cheval, just off Paso Robles' historic town square. For a unique experience, opt for a farm stay – such as in an RV on an alpaca ranch – or spend a night sleeping in a revamped shipping container at Geneseo Inn.

If an adults-only weekend trip is what you have in mind, head out to Las Vegas, a vivacious and walkable city. Sitting about 270 miles north of Los Angeles, Las Vegas checks all the boxes for a memorable vacation. You can hit the slots at the casinos, catch in-residency concerts from big names such as Katy Perry, indulge in a phenomenal treatment at a world-class spa or enjoy a meal crafted by a celebrity chef. More unique things to do include a boozy Upside Down Tea Party at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection by Hilton, or a spin around the SpeedVegas off-road track. If you're not afraid of heights, you can zip line over Fremont Street downtown or experience LIFTOFF at Area 15's immersive playground for panoramic city views.

Live it up like a high roller with a Sky Suite atop ARIA Resort & Casino , the Sake Suite at the Nobu Hotel inside Caesars Palace or ultra-exclusive The Mansion at MGM Grand. Enjoy a feast for the eyes and mouth with innovative eateries all over the city – Las Vegas' dining scene boasts a variety of culinary choices and the ability to cater to whatever your budget may be.

See more of Las Vegas: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

From Los Angeles, the closest paved entrance to Death Valley National Park is on California state Route 190; whichever route you take to get there, you'll likely want to budget around five hours for the drive, which is about 290 miles. Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48 states. Its 3.4 million acres include some of the most unique landscapes and sites you'll find anywhere – such as the Badwater Basin salt flats, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Rainbow Canyon and Artists Palette's colorful hills. Download the free National Park Service app to take a driving tour of "Star Wars" filming locations in the park. Death Valley also boasts some of the best stargazing opportunities in the U.S., as an International Dark Sky Park considered "Gold Tier," meaning there is minimal interference from light pollution.

The Oasis at Death Valley – part of the Xanterra Travel Collection – encompasses the romantic Inn at Death Valley and the family-friendly Ranch at Death Valley. The Oasis completed a $150 million restoration in 2022 and now features a revitalized town square and new shops, including an ice cream parlor with an old-school soda fountain. If you're looking for a quirky desert experience, stay overnight in the Pyramid, a one-bedroom glass pyramid bookable on Airbnb, or pick from the seasonal campgrounds, inns and motels in the park.

Read: The Best National Parks in California

If the mountains are calling you, head to the Sierra Nevada for a weekend in the resort town of Mammoth Lakes. From LA, take U.S. Route 395 for a scenic road trip across approximately 310 miles. Winter ushers in world-class downhill skiing, snowboarding, tubing and cross-country skiing in the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. During the warmer months, visitors can ride gondolas for panoramic views on Mammoth Mountain in addition to hiking and mountain biking there and at the Mammoth Lakes Basin. Other popular lake activities include fishing, paddleboarding and boating.

Located in Mammoth Lakes' The Village, the rustic yet elegant Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth , offers access to dining, shopping and the gondola up the mountain. Dine at the on-property restaurant, Whitebark, for tasty and healthy options. Travelers can also indulge at Gomez's Mexican Restaurant in The Village, visit Tamarack Lodge & Resort for a romantic dinner at the Lakefront Restaurant or stock up on gourmet snacks at Bleu Market & Kitchen.

The 1-square-mile, European-style village of Carmel seamlessly blends history, arts and culture, and stunning ocean views for a relaxing and unique travel experience. Just off of state Route 1 near Monterey , this charming seaside destination about 320 miles northwest of LA is ideal for dreamy weekend getaways any time of year – especially if you have a canine companion in tow. Carmel boasts world-class art galleries, whimsical architecture, nearly 20 wine tasting rooms, the dog-friendly Carmel Beach, a few dozen secret passageways and more restaurants per capita than any other small U.S. city. Enjoy Mediterranean, Italian or French cuisine at quaint local eateries like La Balena, Dametra Cafe, Yafa, La Bicyclette and many more.

Book a stay in one of the historic inns, such as the "Grande Dame of Carmel": La Playa Carmel , a historic hotel with a prime view of Carmel Beach, is perfect for evenings spent gazing out at the sunset or taking a moonlit walk in the sand. If you bring your fur baby with you on your weekend jaunt, Cypress Inn provides an array of amenities to welcome pets, such as its daily "yappy hour."

If you're willing to take to the skies, you can leave California – and the U.S. – altogether for a quick weekend trip to Mexico. Grab your besties or your significant other for a flight to Puerto Vallarta, a resort town on Mexico's Pacific coast, and after about three hours on a plane, you can be sipping margaritas with your toes in the sand. There's plenty to do in Puerto Vallarta: Sail to the Marieta Islands to discover a hidden beach, take a whale watching tour or stroll along the iconic El Malecón boardwalk for souvenirs, ocean views and street performances. Beyond the shoreline, travelers can visit the nearby village of Sayulita for artwork by Huichol Indigenous people or dance the night away in lively nightclubs.

For an all-inclusive stay, Casa Velas is a boutique, adults-only resort that offers laid-back luxury in an intimate setting. If you're traveling with your family, consider Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit , which features entertainment, dining and activities like kids and teens clubs. Try the Hydrotherapy Circuit at the five-star spa or feast on innovative global cuisine at the property's many restaurants.

See more of Puerto Vallarta: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

Vancouver sits perched on the west coast of Canada, surrounded by water and woods, and is only a three-hour flight from Los Angeles. The beauty of the environment lends itself to outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, hiking, biking, skiing and more. And, even though the scenery is rustic, there is plenty of luxury in this coastal Canadian city – from top-notch hotels and restaurants to bountiful art and culture. Must-do activities in the area include a thrilling boat ride with Vancouver Water Adventures, a foodie tour at Granville Island Public Market and an outdoor adventure at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , where you'll experience a 450-foot-long suspension bridge, the Cliffwalk and a treetops excursion. Vancouver is also full of parks and beaches for when you need some relaxation.

Stay at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver for bountiful amenities and impeccable service; there's a spa, access to a casino and plenty of dining choices. For a city-chic boutique hotel, the DOUGLAS, Autograph Collection , brings the outdoors inside with creative design elements, such as an urban park on the rooftop.

See more of Vancouver: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Romantic Getaways in California
• The Top San Diego Beaches
• The Top Natural Hot Springs in California
• The Top Lakes in California
• The Top Things to Do in California
• The Best Restaurants in Palm Springs
• The Top West Coast Road Trips to Take
• The Best Beach Bags
• The Top Travel Backpacks
• The Top Duffel Bags

Tags: Travel , Weekend Getaways , California Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Top things to do in new hampshire.

Timothy J. Forster and Mariya Greeley June 14, 2024

The Best Scotland Tours

Marisa Méndez June 13, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross June 13, 2024

How to Renew a Passport Online

The Best Small Group Tours of Italy

John Rodwan and Ann Henson June 12, 2024

Crystal Symphony Review

Jill Schildhouse June 12, 2024

Fall in New England

Amanda Norcross June 11, 2024

Fun Things to Do in New Mexico

Alissa Grisler and Ashley M. Biggers June 11, 2024

Travel During Hurricane Season

Top Orlando Theme Parks

Lyn Mettler and Timothy J. Forster June 11, 2024

25 Fun Road Trips from Los Angeles

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: April 20, 2024

LA seems to have it all! But something to consider is that Los Angeles can also be a great jumping off point for adventures on the road. It’s hard to believe that within fairly short drives you can reach everything from the Grand Canyon to the great sequoias, and even Sin City.

For anyone who loves visiting the stunning national parks in the USA you’ll find over 10 national parks within easy reach of LA. Ready for a spectacular road trip adventure?

To help you plan for your next epic journey, this list has 25 of the best road trips from Los Angeles . You’ll find destinations that will take you along the coast, out into the desert, to Northern California, and beyond.

25 Fun Road Trips from LA

1.    pacific coast highway to big sur.

Number one on this list of fun road trips from LA is the one and only Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).

This classic coastal byway is world renowned. And the best way to do it is to set your sights on Big Sur, nature’s paradise.

If you plug it into your GPS it looks like the drive will take about 5 hours give or take the traffic. But the reality is, you don’t want to go too fast.

The beauty of the Pacific Coast Highway is to soak in the amazing views along the way.

And stop at any number of wonderful seaside towns like Santa Barbara and San Simeon.

Read our list of bests places to stop on the PCH for some itinerary inspiration on places to see on the way to Big Sur.

September through November and late spring around April and May is the best time of year for a Big Sur road trip. Summer brings the biggest crowds and December through February is rainy season.

NOTE ON HWY 1 ROUTE FALL 2023: 24 miles south of Big Sur Hwy 1 is closed from Lucia to Limekiln State Park due to a landslide. To get to Big Sur you’ll need to take Hwy 101 to Salinas then Hwy 68 West to Hwy 1 South and drive down the coast from Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea to Big Sur. Check the Big Sur highway conditions website for more information.

READ MORE: 28 Best USA Road Trips

Bixby Bridge Big Sur California

2.    Las Vegas

Next up The City of Sin, Las Vegas.

Everyone knows Las Vegas is a major destination with its incredible nightlife, fun entertainment, world class restaurants, and high-end shopping.

There’s so much more to do in Vegas besides the casinos !

If you’re planning to drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas it should take you just over four hours (270 miles) to get there.

But if you’re interested in enjoying the sights along the way there’s quite a bit to see.

Two easy stops along Las Vegas freeway are Mojave National Preserve and the Seven Magic Mountains .

READ MORE: 11 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

Yes, that’s me hanging out with Las Vegas showgirls!

3.    Palm Springs

Palm Springs has always been a favorite among the rich and famous. But the truth is, this destination is one of the fun road trips from LA everyone can enjoy.

In less than a two-hour drive (107 miles) you can enjoy all of the amenities of this wonderful desert town .

Spas and resorts are ready to help you relax by soaking in hot springs and getting a full body massage. In downtown Palm Springs check out the antique stores, thrift shops, and unique boutiques on Palm Canyon Drive.

Also downtown, (grand opening on November 3, 2023) the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza and Museum welcomes visitors to experience and learn about the culture, history, and traditions of the Agua Caliente people.

If you love the outdoors, Palm Springs has tons of hiking and biking trails. I highly recommend the ranger led interpretive hikes at Indian Canyons .

And when you want a unique experience you can ride the tram from the desert to the top of Mt San Jacinto for some cooler mountain air. Grab some lunch, hike the trails, or simply take in the panoramic views.

You can also explore the wonders of nature at Joshua Tree National Park , one of many cool day trips from Palm Springs .

September through April is the best time to visit Palm Springs.

READ MORE: 18 Fab Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs

Hike the Tahquitz Canyon in Palm Springs

4.    Phoenix

Phoenix is another fun road trip from LA where the destination has great nightlife, tons of things to do, and a restaurant scene to satisfy any foodie.

Taking I-10 East the road to Phoenix passes through Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park and takes about 5.5 hours to drive this stretch of 375 miles.

So instead of rushing to get to your final destination why not stop off and enjoy these wonderful destinations along the way there or on the way back to LA.

Taking a slightly longer route you can head up north on I-40 East which will go through the Mojave National Preserve and past Lake Havasu .

November through April is the best time of year to visit Phoenix.

READ MORE: 10 Best Free Things to Do in Phoenix

Camelback Mountain in Phoenix has fabulous hiking trails

5.    Bryce Canyon National Park

A definite must see, Bryce Canyon has some of the coolest land formations including red rocks, pink limestone cliffs, and the largest concentration of hoodoos in the entire world!

With spectacular sunrise and sunset viewing points and wonderful short scenic walking trails you’ll see why Bryce is such a magical place.

The eight-hour drive on I-15 North to Bryce Canyon doesn’t really seem that long if you consider all the places you can enjoy along the way.

Options for stops on the way to/from Bryce include Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park, and Zion National Park.

The best time of year to visit Bryce Canyon is spring or fall for fewer crowds and lovely weather. Summer is hotter and more crowded while winter is magical with the snow and fewer people. Just remember sometimes there are road closures during (and after) winter storms while plows clear the roads.

READ MORE: Bryce Canyon One Day Itinerary

Bryce National Park Utah

6.    Zion National Park

One of the most popular national parks in the entire country, Zion, has become a major destination that can’t be missed.

Lucky for us Zion is only about seven hours away and it’s one of the best road trips from LA for nature lovers.

Stay at Cliffrose Springdale (Curio Collection by Hilton) for an ideal location with gorgeous views and an onsite restaurant.

Before you hit up Angel’s Landing and The Narrows in Zion National Park enjoy the drive and all the many things to see and do along the way.

On this road trip from Los Angeles, it’s easy to make a stop at the Mojave National Preserve, Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon, or Valley of Fire State Park.

And if you’re not into doing the challenging hikes at the park don’t worry there are plenty of easy hikes at Zion suitable for all types of hikers.

Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit Zion National Park. If you plan your trip for April to May or September to October you’ll most likely have pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer months are very hot (over 100 F) and winter months bring cold weather with increased possibility of rain and snow.

READ MORE: Best Things to Do in Zion National Park

Canyon View Trail at Zion National Park

7.    Havasupai (Arizona)

An absolutely unique experience for any avid hiker is to visit Havasupai and the blue and green waters of Havasu Falls.

Reaching the final destination tends to be quite difficult, so the road trip from LA may be the easiest part of all.

Located in the Havasupai Reservation, access is only granted to those with a permit and lodging reservation , which are hard to come by.

Then it’s a strenuous multi-day hike to/from the Havasu Falls but absolutely worth it.

The hiking season is from February through November but also remember that in summer months the trail may close due to extreme heat or flooding.

Best of luck if you have this one on your bucket list!

READ MORE: 12 Beautiful Places that Are Hot in February

8.    Death Valley National Park

We’ve all heard of the famous Death Valley, which is why so many of us are curious to experience it firsthand.

One of the most popular road trips from Los Angeles, you’ll reach the park in just about 3.5 hours (315 miles).

Now this is not a destination for a summer road trip due to extreme heat, but with exceptional wildflower blooms in spring it’s a great place to visit.

It’s also on our list of best national parks to visit in winter .

And it’s one of the best places to stargaze as an International Dark Sky Park.

READ MORE: 12 National Parks Near Las Vegas

Death Valley National Park is best to visit during winter months

9.    Salton Sea + Salvation Mountain + Slab City

One of the most interesting road trips from Los Angeles includes Salton Sea, Salvation Mountain, and Slab City. This trip takes about 3 hours via I-10 East and then hang a right onto Hwy 111 at Indio.

The best time to do the LA to Salton Sea road trip is from October through May when the weather is more comfortable. June through September is too hot with potential of temps well above 100 degrees. I visited in December and it was perfect weather.

The Salton Sea was formed when spring flooding on the Colorado River in 1905 breached a canal and the water flowed in for about a year and a half.

With a state recreation area and National Wildlife Refuge it’s a great place to camp and enjoy the great outdoors. There’s some good birdwatching here too, I saw burrowing owls!

Thought of as the last place to live for free in the US, Slab City is home to squatters who have created makeshift homes on the slabs left from a WWII marine base.

Located at the entrance to Slab City you’ll know you’ve reached Salvation Mountain when you see it. This brightly colored hill is the work and devotion of Leonard Knight which took almost 30 years to create.

READ MORE: 18 Weekend Getaways from Las Vegas

Visit Salvation Mountain, Slab City, and Salton Sea for a unique road trip adventure

10.    San Francisco

One of the greatest road trips of all time has to be from Los Angeles to San Francisco .

Nowadays it’s easy to get from one big city to the next using fast forms of transportation but to truly enjoy the landscape of California you’ve got to consider going by car.

Driving straight on I-5 you can reach the city in about six hours. But traveling along the coast on the Pacific Coast Highway will take you through wonderful towns like Santa Barbara , Morro Bay, San Simeon, and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

READ MORE: 10 Best Free Things to Do in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco

11.    Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park in Oregon is a great choice when you want to do a multi-day drive from Los Angeles and get out of Cali.

This 11-hour car ride doesn’t have to be done in one shot. Instead consider stopping to see the beautiful California landscape along the way in places like Fresno, Sacramento, and the Shasta-Trinity National Forest .

And not to worry, after this road trip, your final destination will be just as incredible as the journey to get there.

READ MORE: Portland to Oregon Coast Road Trip

12.    Portland + Columbia River Gorge

If you’re down for some of the coolest road trips from LA definitely consider heading up to Portland and the Columbia River Gorge.

This multi-day road trip will take you through the majestic California and Oregon landscapes.

Consider three different routes:

• I-5 will take you through major cities like Sacramento and Eugene
• US-395 N will take a bit longer, but you’ll be closer to major destinations like Yosemite and Lake Tahoe
• The last option is the Pacific Coast Highway then continue on Hwy 101 on the Oregon coast until Tillamook or Cannon Beach then head east to Portland. Yes, the longest of all but so worth it!

READ MORE: 3 Day Portland Oregon Itinerary

Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful road trip at the Oregon and Washington border

13.    Olympic National Park

Keep going north! If you’re headed up to the Portland area why not just keep going north to reach the amazing Olympic National Park.

Although it takes a few days to get there, it’s one of the most epic road trips from Los Angeles. Save this one for when you have at least a couple of weeks to enjoy the journey.

The fastest route is 1,123 miles but the most scenic route will take you along the PCH and continue along the Oregon and Washington coastlines on Hwy 101.

At this incredible national park, you’ll get to see it all: glaciers, old growth forest, beaches, and even lush rain forest. And the wildlife watching opportunities are great with deer, elk, black bears, and beavers to name a few.

July and August are the warmest (and busiest) months to visit Olympic National Park. For fewer crowds plan on visiting in May, June, or September. The rainy season starts around mid-October and continues through April.

READ MORE: Best Things to Do in Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park sunset at Rialto Beach

14.    Yosemite National Park

Major bucket list item, Yosemite National Park is one of the most magnificent places to visit in the US. Conveniently it’s one of the totally doable road trips from LA.

To get there quickly just head on I-5 North, which should take about 5 hours.

But if you’re interested in taking a little bit more of a scenic route, consider US-395 N instead. You’ll pass Death Valley National Park, Sequoia National Forest, through Inyo National Forest, and Mammoth Lakes.

At Yosemite plan for spectacular waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and stunning mountain landscapes like El Capitan and Half Dome.

Plan to spend 3 to 5 days to see the highlights of Yosemite such as Yosemite Valley, Tioga Road, Tuolumne Meadows, Wawona and Tunnel View.

The best time to visit Yosemite is from May through September.

READ MORE: 15 Best Weekend Getaways in California

Take an epic road trip to Yosemite National Park

15.    San Diego

Visiting San Diego from LA is a no-brainer. You’ll reach this fun city to the south in just over 2 hours depending on traffic.

I-5 South will bring you along the Pacific Coastline through great towns like San Clemente and Del Mar.

Once you arrive, you’ll be living the SoCal life, watching surfers hang-ten, seeing the sea lions sunbathe, and eating the best fish tacos of your life.

Spring, summer, and fall are the best seasons for a trip to San Diego but avoid May Gray and June Gloom when skies are typically cloudy most days. Unless you’re into moody cloudy skies!

READ MORE: Best Things to Do in San Diego

San Diego sunset

16.    Joshua Tree National Park

There’s no denying that Joshua Tree National Park is a major destination for folks heading out on road trips from Los Angeles.

With only 130 miles that separates us from this majestic park, there’s really no reason not to go.

So, when you need an escape from the city, get into nature at Joshua Tree. Surround yourself with beautiful cacti, wildly charismatic Joshua trees, and maybe see some wildlife on the numerous hiking trails.

READ MORE: 25 Warm Places to Visit in December

Joshua Tree National Park California

17.    Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

A stellar road trip from LA is definitely Red Rock Canyon. This breathtaking landscape has over 30 miles of hiking trails, great rock climbing, a scenic 15 mile drive, and camping.

Remember to make a timed entry reservation if you plan to visit between October and May.

Located less than 20 miles from Las Vegas, you could plan a road trip that hits up both. That way you can balance glitz and glam with serenity and nature.

On the other hand, if you’re all about escaping the city lights then make reservations for camping at Red Rock Canyon in advance.

READ MORE: 15 Best Places to Travel in November

Take a road trip to the Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas

18.    Santa Barbara

Located a short distance up the coast from LA, Santa Barbara is the perfect getaway and road trip from LA.

You’ll love its picturesque beaches and notable architecture with red tile rooftops. If you’re into surfing be sure to stop at Carpinteria and Rincon Beach Park for some epic waves.

The climate in Santa Barbara will make you feel like you’re on the Mediterranean coast. Nearby San Ynez Mountains offer tons of outdoor activities.

Santa Barbara is also a great place to do a bit of wine tasting as it’s home to over 200 wineries. You can do wine tastings in town but if you want the best experience this wine tasting tour to San Ynez Valley includes lunch and snacks along with visits to 3 wineries.

READ MORE: 10 Best Small Beach Towns in California

Hit the road to Santa Barbara for a change of scene

19.    Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

Want to see the largest tree in the world? Then head to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park to see “General Sherman”.

Visiting these two sister parks, you’ll also be able to visit Mt. Whitney, the tallest mountain in the contiguous US.

Camping and lodging is pretty abundant in and around the parks, making it easy to spend a night (or several nights) after the three-to-five-hour drive from LA.

20.    Napa

The ideal getaway in California is seriously one of the best road trips from Los Angeles. Located just north of San Francisco, the direct drive will take at least 5.5 hours.

But who says you need to rush? Instead make a real trip out of it. Traveling up along the Pacific you’ll love the views and all of the small seaside towns, like Carmel-by-the-Sea along the way.

Besides wine tastings you can also experience Napa from above with this magnificent hot air balloon tour for the best view of the vineyards.

Napa Valley is an easy road trip from Los Angeles

21.    Sonoma Valley

Another fabulous destination just north of San Francisco, is the wonderful Sonoma Valley. A wine lover’s paradise, this is the place to come to sample some of California’s best wines.

Since the popular activities in Sonoma involve sampling the local wines, it’s all the more reason to make a real trip out of it.

Spend a couple of days enjoying the local wine and checking out the shops in historic downtown Sonoma. Foodies will love this walking, food, wine, and history tour with a local guide.

Sonoma Valley is one of the most fun road trips from Los Angeles especially if you drive along the Pacific Coast Highway.

22.    Antelope Canyon (Page Arizona)

We all know that magical photo of someone basking in sunlight as it streams into a gorgeous red canyon. Spoiler: It’s Antelope Canyon. And to get there it’s one of the best road trips from LA so you can stand in that same spot.

Now, to drive directly from the city it’s going to take you over eight hours. So, it’s recommended to make some stops along the way. Easy ones are Lake Havasu and Flagstaff if you take the I-40 route, or Las Vegas via I-15.

Remember that you’ll want to make a reservation in advance for the tours. For a chance to see the sunlight streaming down through the red sandstone book the Upper Antelope Canyon tour around midday. This is also the easiest tour because it’s basically flat with no stairs to climb and no ladders.

You can also tour Lower Antelope Canyon which is a bit more narrow and requires climbing a couple of staircases and some ladders inside the canyon.

I did both tours and I preferred the lower canyon because I felt it had more photo opportunities but both tours were fantastic, well organized, fun, and informative.

Read our list of best things to do in Page Arizona and make sure to put Horseshoe Bend on your must-do list too!

READ MORE: 7 Indian Ruins Near Flagstaff AZ

LA to Antelope Canyon in Page Arizona is a fabulous road trip

23.    Paso Robles

Interested in visiting wine country but not in the seriously long drive to Napa or Sonoma Valley? Consider Paso Robles.

In about three hours you’ll be sipping the latest vintage.

To visit a few wineries without driving you can book this wine tour so you can enjoy the vino and no worries about having to get behind the wheel.

Besides wine tasting in Paso Robles you can enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot springs, go horseback riding or take a hot air balloon ride.

Paso Robles is a great choice for a quick weekend getaway from Los Angeles.

24.    Grand Canyon National Park

Yet another one of our awesome life bucket list items is within a reasonable drive of Los Angeles. At just over 500 miles (around 8 hours away), the Grand Canyon is considered one of the top road trips from LA.

If it seems like a bit much to make the drive in one go, think about breaking it up with stops in Palm Springs , Joshua Tree National Park, Lake Havasu, Williams, or Flagstaff .

While at the Grand Canyon the first thing you’ll want to do is take in the majestic views from overlooks along the South Rim.

Hikers will want to spend some time on the trails. Rim Trail is an easy hike while Bright Angel and South Kaibab are steep hikes.

Other key attractions at the Grand Canyon South Rim include several buildings by the amazing architect Mary Colter including Desert View Watchtower, Hopi House, Lookout Studio, Hermits Rest, and Bright Angel Lodge.

Learn all about how the Grand Canyon was formed at the Yavapai Geology Museum. Here you’ll find great views of the canyon and a cool gift shop as well as informative displays including a large topographic relief map.

When you get hungry there are several hotel and lodge restaurants as well as casual cafes and snack bars.

Once you arrive at the South Rim you can utilize the free shuttle buses to get around so you don’t need to drive.

Whether you’re an avid hiker and plan to do the Rim-to-Rim Trail or simply want to enjoy the grandeur of nature a trip to the Grand Canyon from LA is one of those lifetime experiences you’ll want to plan ahead. Hotel rooms are often booked 13 months in advance so make sure you check hotel availability for your travel dates.

READ MORE: 17 Best Day Trips from Flagstaff AZ

Grand Canyon South Rim

25.    Redwood National (and State) Parks

There’s no better thing to do in California than see the Redwoods. Naturally occurring in the state, they are the tallest trees in the world.

But there’s no better place to see them than at Redwood National Park and State Parks .

Plan to spend a night on the way there. A couple of good options are Petaluma or Santa Rosa just north of San Francisco.

Although the drive will take over 11 hours even on the fastest route (but over 18 hours via PCH) , it’s one of the coolest road trips from LA.

As you travel north you can explore the beauty of the state along the Pacific Coast (much longer route but also much more scenic) or inland (fastest route) via interstate 5 and Hwy 101.

On the way there stop in Humboldt Redwoods State Park (north of Garberville) and drive the Avenue of the Giants , for 31 miles of coastal redwoods towering over the roadway.

Be sure to visit Prairie Creek Redwoods and drive Newton B. Drury Parkway. There are rustic cabins and campgrounds at the park.

Continuing north on Hwy 101 to Crescent City area (about 25 miles) you can also visit Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park for more hiking and scenic drives.

There’s nothing like a great American road trip and this list has 25 of the best and most fun road trips from Los Angeles. It’s hard to believe there’s so many extraordinary choices within driving distance of this great city. With so many great places to see it’s easy to set your sights on a few road trips from LA. Remember it’s best to buy your park passes in advance and also make your lodging reservations as soon as you know your travel dates. Always check the road conditions and weather before and during your road trip. Have Fun!

Save it to Pinterest!

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of Los Angeles for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Los Angeles without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 15 best day trips from Los Angeles

Experience everything that SoCal has to offer with these day trip from Los Angeles to stunning nearby beaches, wineries and small towns

L.A. is great and all, but sometimes you need a change of scenery. If you only have one day to spare, consider one of these quick day trips from Los Angeles to some amazing nearby destinations. Luckily, living in L.A. means it’s an easy (well, depending on traffic) and often  scenic drive  to SoCal’s best beaches , small towns, wineries and gorgeous desert landscapes—all within three hours of the city. Oddly enough, taking advantage of the ease with which you can get  out of L.A. is easily one of the best things to do  in L.A.

From wine tasting in Santa Barbara and  vintage hunting in Palm Springs to  camping  in Joshua Tree or feeling the sand between your toes in San Diego, you’re sure to find a short trip (as opposed to a longer road trip ) worth taking on this list. 

RECOMMENDED: The best weekend getaways from L.A.

An email you’ll actually love

Top day trips from Los Angeles

1.  Coronado

2 hrs by car There’s a reason Coronado has topped lists of the country’s best beaches: Its wide shores never feel overcrowded, the soft, fine-grained sand is easily walkable and the weather is practically perfect. Just a quick ferry ride or bridge drive from San Diego, this wealthy peninsula has the feel of a resort town with the amenities that come from being near a major city.

The beachfront grounds of the regal, red-roofed Hotel del Coronado  are a must-visit, even if you can’t foot its pricey room reservations. Back in town, stop into hole-in-the-wall diner Clayton’s Coffee Shop for a quick meal or MooTime Creamery for frozen treats. Coronado is also home to a sizable naval base, and while you can’t exactly visit, you can spot fighter jets coming in for landings and submarines surfacing off the coast.  —Michael Juliano

2.  Ojai

1 hr 20 mins by car Ojai is a not-so-hidden gem close enough to L.A. for a day trip, but with a unique, relaxed feel that’s worlds away from busy city life. Start early with a decadent, hearty breakfast at Bonnie Lu’s , then stroll the town’s quaint main street; the antique shopping is great here, but relatively new school shops like Summer Camp are also worth a stop.

Tour an olive farm or a citrus grove, then grab an organic lunch at Farmer & the Cook . Alternatively, grab a a bite to go and explore the nearby trails in Los Padres National Forest , just north of town. If the weather is right, swimming holes abound along the Sespe Creek.

Back in civilization, check out Bart’s Books , an outdoor bookstore housed in an actual house (sans roof), or head up to Meditation Mount   (reservations required)  for incredible views, especially the famed “pink moment” at sunset.

Swing back to the center of town to explore its many wine tasting rooms, or grab a beer and a bite at Ojai Beverage Company . Chief’s Peak, the bar at Ojai Rancho Inn (where you should stay if your trip runs long), is a hip spot for an after-dinner drink; you’ll find more old-timers—and regular live music—at Deer Lodge down the road.  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Ojai

3.  Santa Barbara

1 hr 50 mins by car Santa Barbara is a scenic and worthy vacation destination regardless of your starting point, but we’re fortunate enough to have relatively easy access (granted that the L.A. traffic gods are working in our favor).

Stearns Wharf is a go-to spot to see the Pacific, and nearby is State Street, filled with tons of shops and people-watching opportunities. And the Wharf isn’t the only place to see the water: Butterfly Beach, a relatively private spot, is situated next to the Four Seasons Biltmore Hotel and faces west for ideal sunset-watching views.

Grab lunch at La Super-Rica Taqueria —famous for being one of Julia Child’s favorite eateries. The lines tend to be on the ridiculous side, but it’s worth the wait for novelty’s sake alone.

If you’re traveling with family, spend a few hours at the Santa Barbara Zoo   (reservations required) . Otherwise, grab a glass of Pinot Noir at one of the many tasting rooms along the Urban Wine Trail   (hours and status vary by winery) ; the spots are located in downtown Santa Barbara, steps from the Amtrak station, and source grapes from local vineyards.  —Seth Kelley

Discover the best things to do in Santa Barbara

4.  Laguna Beach

1 hr by car Forget what you know from a certain unfortunate MTV reality show: Laguna Beach is an easygoing oceanfront city graced with lush vegetation, tidepools and a picturesque rocky coastline.

Main Beach is the spot of choice for downtown sunbathing, but you’ll find pristine, less crowded beaches at tide pool-filled Treasure Island, camper-friendly Crystal Cove or hidden Victoria Beach with its weathered, castle-like turret.

Walk the city’s downtown area to find a mix of shops, galleries and restaurants; many eateries cater to the well heeled, so we suggest bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy on a bench at the hilltop Heisler Park. Do, however, follow the smell of fresh waffle cones onto the enchanting Peppertree Lane for a scoop from Gelato Paradiso .

It’s not just about the beach here; you can explore the reservation-only Hortense Miller Garden  or thousands of acres of hillsides and canyons to find hiking trails, nature centers and the Pacific Marine Mammal Center   (closed through fall 2024) , a sea lion rescue. Summertime typically sees the arrival of two festival favorites: Pageant of the Masters , a live stage interpretation of classical paintings, and Sawdust Art Festival , an open-air artisan market that transforms into a Christmas village in late fall. There’s only one road in and out from the 5, so bring some patience during rush hour—alternatively, take the scenic route and follow Coast Highway through Newport Beach.  —Michael Juliano

5.  Solvang

2 hrs by car After Danish immigrants grew tired of Midwestern winters, they began to make their way west and eventually settled in the pastoral Santa Ynez Valley. Though you won’t find many Danes in Solvang anymore, you will find wooden windmills, rural houses and a replica of Copenhagen’s Round Tower. The post-WWII structures are as touristy as they are charming; walk around town to find an assortment of Christmas shops, Hans Christian Andersen and Little Mermaid keepsakes, and sort-of-Danish bakeries.

Solvang’s downtown area is dotted with breweries and pancake cottages, including local standbys Solvang Brewing Company   and Paula’s Pancake House —and an increasingly impressive new culinary scene . For a bit of history on the area, make sure to stop by the humble Elverhøj Museum .

For a more offbeat adventure, head to the outskirts of town to  OstrichLand , which feels like the Jurassic Park of the ostrich and emu world. If you’re visiting in early January, make sure to schedule your trip around the annual Christmas tree bonfire . —Michael Juliano

6.  Balboa Island

1 hr by car, 5 min ferry

Visitors to Balboa Island in Newport Beach can enter the man-made island by driving onto it via Marine Avenue, but it’s far easier—and more fun—to park your car on the Balboa Peninsula and take the Balboa Island Ferry for a quick and scenic five-minute trip across the water.

The first order of business: getting your hands on one of the island’s famed frozen bananas (make the Bluth family proud). Choose from rivals Sugar N Spice or Dad’s Donut & Bakery Shop; both claim to be the originators of the chocolate-covered frozen treat.

Take a jaunt around the 1.6-mile boardwalk surrounding the island, passing by multi-million dollar homes and streets named after gems, before strolling down Marine Avenue, the island’s main artery. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants ( Wilma’s Patio is a staple), boutique shops, art galleries and the Balboa Island Museum and Historical Society .

Of course, there’s plenty to do out on the water, too: kayaking, parasailing, paddle boarding and the like. If you’ve got kiddos tagging along, the Balboa Fun Zone on the peninsula hosts a Ferris wheel and plenty of arcade games.  —Erin Kuschner

Discover the best things to do in Newport Beach

7.  Los Alamos

2 hrs 20 mins by car Once a major stagecoach stop, this small, easy-to-miss town looks stuck in the past with its Old West style—but behind the facade are trendy treasures waiting to be discovered. Inside Bob’s Well Bread Bakery is a hip, stylish setup serving artisan breads—including gluten free options—croissants, sandwiches and more. Exploring antique shops and art galleries can easily fill a day here, just be sure to call ahead, as some places are only open on weekends.

A big draw of the Los Alamos area is its wine tasting—this is Santa Barbara County, after all—which can be done at Bedford Winery  and other local tasting rooms. Before you leave town, make a pit stop at  1880 Union , an event space with an authentic stagecoach saloon, or spend the night at the Victorian Mansion Bed and Breakfast . For being a single stoplight town (we haven’t actually counted, but you get it), there’s a bevy of delicious places to eat, such as  Full of Life Flatbread (known for its occasional A-list diners) and the destination-worthy Bell’s .  —Stephanie Morino

8.  San Juan Capistrano

1 hr 30 min by car, 1 hr 25 min by train A piece of California history and a quaint old town make San Juan Capistrano an off-the-beaten-path day trip with a lot of charm and a little learning. If you take Amtrak there, the train will drop you off right where you want to be—just a couple of blocks from a good cup of coffee at Hidden House Coffee .

From there, you can tour Mission San Juan Capistrano , founded in 1776 and arguably one of the mission chain’s prettiest links. The mission used to be known as a migratory destination for swallows in February, but the famous birds have been spotty in recent years. If you have your heart set on getting up close with some animals, check out Zoomars   (reservations recommended) , a petting zoo for kids of all ages (read: adults love it, too). It’s a historic ranch where you can also pan for gold like the California miners did. You’re also near Los Rios Historic District , which has some historic homes and museums that are perfect for a walking tour.

When you get hungry, you have several options: Heritage Barbecue serves remarkable Texas-style smoked meats,  Ramos House is a romantic spot known for great food and huge Bloody Marys on the weekends and  Five Vines is a nearby wine bar with snacks and sandwiches. If you want to catch a later train, head over to Swallow’s Inn , the local dive bar, where bras hang from the ceiling and bands play late into the night. You’re still within stumbling distance of the train station.  —Sara Fay

9.  Oak Glen

1 hr 30 mins by car

Though you can visit Oak Glen year-round, the best time to head to this picturesque town to the east is September through November. The five-mile loop of orchards, ranches, shops and restaurants is a necessity for any New England transplant looking for fall foliage, and the town’s most popular activity— apple picking —is a nice alternative to canvassing L.A.’s farmers’ markets.

Many of the orchards, like Willowbrook Apple Farm  (opens Labor Day weekend), offer a cider press to make your own cider, which you can pair with a cinnamon roll or apple dumpling from Apple Annie’s Restaurant & Bakery . Stop by the Turquoise Pueblo  on your way back to L.A. for some beautiful handmade Native American jewelry.  —Erin Kuschner

10.  Solana Beach

2 hrs by car, or 2 hrs by train

If you want to spend a day in San Diego, you can either try to go big (the San Diego Zoo! Balboa Park!  Padres game! All in one day!) or go small-town and spend a chill day in a cool oceanfront neighborhood. The beach towns north of San Diego—no, we’re not talking about Pacific Beach—are the stuff of the Beach Boys lyrics.

In Solana Beach, you’ll find laid-back vibes and beaches that aren’t completely overrun. It’s easy to get there from L.A. via Amtrak, and it’s a perfect way to day-trip because all the spots you’ll want to hit are within walking distance of the station.

Start at  the Naked Cafe for a beach-y brunch, then, either head down to the beach at Fletcher Cove or cruise along the Cedros Design District for window shopping, brewery hopping and people watching. There’s also a mix of cute boutiques, surf shops, restaurants, taco spots and bars along South Coast Highway. If it’s racing season, the Del Mar Racetrack  isn’t far—it would be either a long walk or a short car ride.

Before you catch the train back up to L.A., you have several good options for dinner near the tracks: Station Sushi is a solid locals’ spot for classic and creative rolls, Bangkok Bay  has some of the best Thai food we’ve ever eaten and Pizza Port is known for being a last-slice-and-beer-before-Amtrak place. It’s directly across a pedestrian crosswalk from the train station, and has been slinging pies and pouring pints for three decades.  —Sara Fay

If the San Diego Zoo caught your eye, book a ticket and spend a day with the animals.

11.  Temecula

When hoofing it to Napa and Sonoma isn’t an option, Temecula is your next best destination for a day of wine tasting. Before sampling the grapes, stop by quaint Old Town Temecula, where you can pay a visit to the Temecula Valley Museum  for a historical walking tour.

Then it’s down to business; the heart of Temecula’s Wine Country includes more than 30 wineries, which you can bounce between at your own leisure (don’t drink and drive, folks!) or take a guided tour from one of the many wine tour companies in the area. Taste your way through the 70-acre Wilson Creek Winery and the red-focused Monte De Oro Winery   before heading to Maurice Car’rie Vineyard  for an educated tasting and a loaf of the vineyard’s famous sourdough bread, oozing with brie.

Just down the road, Magical Adventure Balloon Rides encapsulates another popular Temecula activity: riding in a hot air balloon. We can’t think of a better way to end your day in Temecula than by sailing over the town’s vineyards at sunset with a glass of Champagne in hand. —Erin Kuschner

12.  Palm Springs

2 hrs by car Known for its ultra-fancy resorts and legacy of celebrity residents, Palm Springs is worth at least a weekend, if you can afford the time. Still, if you’re limited to 24 hours, make the desert city a choose-your-own-adventure day trip.

Start with brunch at Cheeky’s , and trust us that it’s worth the wait. If you’re in the mood to exercise, check out Indian Canyons , made up of three separate canyons (Palm, Murray and Andreas) that each offer hiking trails and fantastic views of the diverse landscape. Another of the best ways to see Palm Springs is on the Aerial Tramway , which helps visitors escape the heat of the desert with a scenic ride to the top of the San Jacinto Mountains.

If relaxation is your goal, shop at the outlets in Cabazon, or just get a massage and sit by the pool. The Palm Springs Art Museum  is small but displays works from incredible artists including Picasso and Warhol. For dinner, try reservations at Sandfish  for superb sushi and Japanese whiskey.  —Seth Kelley

Discover the best  things to do in Palm Springs

13.  Big Bear

2 hrs by car; access may be limited during the winter This mountain town is home to some of L.A.’s closest ski slopes in winter, but don’t discount a summertime trip, when a dip in a mountain lake is the best way to keep cool. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to tour the water, and keep an eye out for the white-domed Big Bear Solar Observatory perched at the water’s edge on the north shore. The hiking here is also plentiful and offers some amazing views.

If you’re a bit more adventurous, stop by Bear Valley Bikes and rent a mountain bike; there are fire roads for beginners and lots of technical, downhill single track for more seasoned riders.

Back in town, check out the Bowling Barn  and the Alpine Slide , both of which are a blast with or without kids in tow. For a drink with the locals, head to karaoke night (which is pretty much every night) at Murray’s Saloon , the town’s self-proclaimed “five star hole in the wall.”  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Big Bear

14.  Joshua Tree

2 hrs 15 mins by car You’ll find Joshua Tree National Park on our shortlist for perfect day trips, road trips and weekend getaways from L.A. That’s for good reason: the magical desert spot—with its gnarled, ancient namesake trees, picturesque cacti and giant boulders—should be on every traveler’s bucket list, no matter how much time they have to spare.

Watch rock climbers scale mini-mountains at  Hidden Valley campground (first-come, first-served) or try some scrambling yourself at Jumbo Rocks . If you visit in spring, head south to Pinto Basin for a chance to see colorful wildflowers in bloom.

On the drive out, plan for a pit stop at the Cabazon exit, where you can explore the famed dinosaur park from Pee Wee’s Big Adventure (and even, for a fee, climb inside the three-story T. Rex for a photo op in his mouth). Shop for cacti at multiple roadside marts on Twentynine Palms Highway, or hang a left at Pioneertown Road for a stop at Pappy & Harriet’s , which boasts a ghost town, small inn and great live music.

Another worthwhile detour is Landers, home of countless alien sightings and new-age sound baths at the  Integratron   (reservations required) . In the town of Joshua Tree, take your pick from a few tasty restaurants, including Crossroads Cafe   to rub elbows with locals. There are some good thrift shops around here, as well as the kind of quirky public art; be sure to check out the World Famous Crochet Museum , as well as prolific artist Andrea Zittel’s A-Z West tour.  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Joshua Tree .

15.  Salton Sea and Slab City

3 hrs by car This day trip isn’t for everyone; but if you’re a fan of things decrepit, forgotten and way off the beaten path, head south to Bombay Beach at the Salton Sea. A popular vacation spot in the ’50s and ’60s, these days all that’s left of the once-booming seaside town are photo-worthy ruins and a lot of dead fish.

The Ski Inn remains; stop by for a drink or a greasy bite and decorate a dollar bill to hang on the wall or ceiling. Continue on to Niland, made famous by artist Leonard Knight’s Salvation Mountain , a giant folk art monument made from adobe, straw and thousands of gallons of paint (you may remember it from Into the Wild ). Beyond is Slab City, a former marine training base that now exists as a squat for campers, transients and desert dwellers who’ve created a community complete with a library, skate park and live music stage, “the Range.” If you’re respectful and friendly, folks may share their hot spring and swimming hole secrets, so bring a bathing suit—or do as the locals do and go in your birthday suit.  —Kate Wertheimer

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Time Out magazine

DISCOVER CALIFORNIA

© 2024 California.com All Rights Reserved

RECOMMENDED BUSINESSES

Two-Hour Road Trips From L.A. To Take Next

Need to get out of the city? Turn up the tunes and roll down the windows as you embark on these road trips from L.A. for a quick escape.

January 05, 2024

Confucius once said, “ Roads were made for journeys , not destinations,” and California is all about the journey . The best thing about Los Angeles—aside from its hustle and bustle, stunning scenery, glamorous lifestyle, unique slang , and hipster vibes—is its close proximity to a wide variety of road trip–worthy destinations. You can find yourself surrounded by mountains or beside the beach at a moment’s notice.

Whether you want a weekend getaway or a scenic day trip , you have plenty options to choose from in L.A. So hop in your car, turn up the road trip tunes , and roll down the windows as you make your way out of L.A. and head to the nearby forests, beaches, desert terrains, or rugged mountains. 

The Best Road Trips from L.A.

L.A. to Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from L.A.: 2 hours and 11 minutes

There are plenty of things to see and do on California family road trips , and a trip to the majestic Joshua Tree National Park never fails to deliver . Joshua Tree is the closest national park to L.A., making it an optimal choice for a quick day trip. The park’s diverse landscape boasts everything from ancient Joshua trees and giant boulders to flowering cacti and shrubs. It all gives off the ultimate desert vibe and putting visitors into a different state of mind. Spring is the best season to take in the beauty of the park, but the scenery is truly spectacular at any time of year.

Once you've made it to the vast expanse of the park, head to Cottonwood Spring. Hiking trails, old gold mills, and campsites await you. Admire the wildflower and cacti, and stop by the Joshua Tree Visitor Center before continuing onward. As you head north from Cottonwood Spring, the Ocotillo Patch and the Cholla Cactus Garden are worthwhile stops; prepare for more sightings of cacti and the beautiful hum of hummingbirds. Marvel at the innumerable Joshua trees as you take a turn down a dirt road to hike up to the Desert Queen Mine. 

You can also choose to hike short trails such as the Barker Dam Nature Trail and Hidden Valley Nature Trail, which take about 30 minutes each to complete. Professional trekkers may want to opt for the Lost Palm Oasis Trail, which spans 7.2 miles and makes for a challenging workout.

After your desert excursions, refuel with a hearty meal at the Joshua Tree Saloon , which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And if you can't bear to leave after just one day, worry not. Joshua Tree is one of the best national parks for camping in the Golden State , complete with nine major campgrounds and over 500 campsites. You can quickly turn your day trip into a weekend-long adventure.

L.A. to the Salton Sea State Recreation Area 

Distance from L.A.: 2 hours and 34 minutes

Ever wondered what happened to the Salton Sea ? Enjoy a secluded weekend getaway in this mysterious spot. Situated at 227 feet below sea level, it is the largest lake in California and is even saltier than the Pacific Ocean. Though the lake was once a popular tourist destination in the 1950s, it was transformed into an eerie yet fascinating landscape due to environmental troubles in the 70s and is now largely unfrequented. With the decline in tourism, t he man-made Salton Sea State Recreation Area is an ideal spot for those looking for a remote and unique escape.

Integral to an L.A. road trip are the pitstops made along the way to your destination. As you cruise to the Salton Sea, take a brief break at the Cabazon Dinosaurs . This quirky desert attraction  is definitely worth the stop. Built in the 60s to attract customers to a nearby restaurant, the world’s biggest dinosaur sculptures now stand guard over the desert . If you have time to visit another unusual roadside attraction, swing by Pappy and Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace . Looking like something taken out of a vintage Hollywood movie, this spot draws visitors wanting to enjoy live music, Tex-Mex, and barbecue.

When you reach the Salton Sea State Recreation Area, stretch your legs and take a hike around the only caves in the area: The Bat Caves Buttes is a three-mile loop trail perfect for hikers of all skill levels. Camping by the lake is a must; with five campgrounds to choose from, you'll surely get the relaxation you deserve. The ideal campgrounds to pitch your tent are Corvina Beach Campground, Mecca Beach Campground, New Camp, Headquarters Camp, and Salt Creek Beach Campground. For a change of scenery and an indulgence in all things quirky, visit the nearby International Banana Museum .

L.A. to Santa Barbara

Distance: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Memorize California's unspoken driving rules before hopping on Highway 101 en route to this Central Coast gem. A Santa Barbara getaway couldn't be more perfect—take it from the celebs (ahem, ahem, Oprah and Ellen), who flock over to “The American Riviera” every chance they get. The drive from L.A. to Santa Barbara in itself is quite enchanting, with islands and whales peaking across the horizon, birds chirping along with the sound of the crashing waves, and bewitching red-tiled rooftops rising above the coastal town. 

Since Santa Barbara is only 95 miles from Los Angeles,   spend some time in Santa Monica on your way there. Take a stroll on the Santa Monica Pier to admire the ocean views and ride the iconic Ferris wheel. Another notable stop is the Adamson House Museum in Malibu , where visitors can take in the wonders of vintage craftsmanship.  Once you arrive at your final destination, lounge on the shores of the pristine Butterfly Beach or head to Refugio State Beach to go kayaking (rent your vessel from Paddle Sports Center ) and swimming .

Why stop the fun there? Return to land and make your way to The Funk Zone, which is a local hot spot for restaurants and museums. Shalhoob's Funk Zone Patio offers original American dishes served in the most charming outdoor setting. Art and culture are not absent in Santa Barbara, either: The Wolf Museum of Exploration and Innovation (MOXI) is a modern museum dedicated to science, technology, and the arts and offers interactive exhibits. If you're thinking of spending the evening in this lovely coastal city, you won't regret an overnight stay at the luxurious Belmond El Encanto .

L.A. to Big Bear Lake

Distance from L.A.: 2 hours

Prepare for a transcendental trip from L.A. to Big Bear. An escape to SoCal’s mountain wonderland is one of the best road trips from Los Angeles. Just two hours away from the famed city, Big Bear Lake sits at an altitude of 6,743 feet and is surrounded by the majestic San Bernardino National Forest. World-renowned for its winter escapes and lakeside activities for summer getaways, Big Bear Lake is a year-round Southern California staple attraction.

For a quick dose of nature, stop by Monterey Park on your way out of Los Angeles. Then, take the historic Route 66 to make your way to San Dimas, where you can explore Walnut Creek Community Regional Park and go for a swim in Puddingstone Reservoir. Once you reach San Bernardino National Forest, rejuvenate yourself at Deep Creek Hot Springs . 

Keep the laid-back vibes going when you arrive at Big Bear Lake. Hiking is a must when visiting in the warmer months; Pine Knot Trail to Grand View Point is a standard route for runners, hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. You can also enjoy the picturesque views on the Scenic Sky Chair Lift as you ascend to the top of the mountain. Before heading back to L.A., Teddy Bear Restaurant is the place to go for grub—indulge in all-American comfort food and a slice of the famous apple pie.

Does your business rank among the best in California?

Recomended businesses

Show me california.com recommended businesses near.

Learn more about our selection criteria and vetting process.

L.A. to Palm Springs

If you're craving a desert getaway, the trip from L.A. to Palm Springs awaits. Considered one of the best weekend getaways from L.A. , Palm Springs surely doesn't disappoint. The town's luxurious resorts (hello, The Saguaro Palm Springs ), world-renowned golf courses , and thermal mineral springs are bound to leave you feeling wondrous and refreshed for reality back home.

As you prepare to embark on the long desert road to Palm Springs, plan extra time for a few pit stops along the way. The first stop is The Richard Nixon Library and Museum —an interesting presidential library for adults and kids. Drive 27 miles from the library to reach California Citrus State Historic Park, where you can learn about (and taste) the state's famous citrus fruits.

When you're ready to kick off your weekend in Palm Springs , check in to the Miracle Manor Boutique Hotel and Spa or The Spring Resort and Spa for a luxe retreat. As you explore Palm Springs, take a scenic drive past the mid-century modern Eichler homes to appreciate this iconic California architecture coupled with laid-back vibes. Further soothe your soul and mind by hiking one of the many trails found around the Palm Springs area. The Bump and Grind Trail is a popular path found next to the city of Rancho Mirage. The trail reaches an elevation of 1,000 feet but has relatively gentle slopes; it is perfect for all skill levels and is quite charming, given the scenic mountain and valley views.

Of course, no trip to the Palm Springs area is complete without a visit to the top cultural attractions. The Palm Springs Art Museum is home to compelling art exhibitions, a vast permanent collection, and the 433-seat Annenberg Theater. Current exhibits include Gerald Clarke: Falling Rock and Jim Iserman: Copy. Petter. Repeat. After spending a day exploring Palm Springs' most unique destinations , treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Le Vallauris Restaurant , a French-inspired establishment serving gourmet dishes in a romantic outdoor setting. 

Need help with a home improvement project? Get a free quote today!

Enter your zip code.

Inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

Awesome thank you for subscribing to our newsletter..

When you provide your email address, you are agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy , and you are giving your consent to receive email communications from California.com regarding updates, happenings, special offers, and promotions from our partners.

RELATED Articles

RELATED CITIES

Discover More

Breaking Down The El Camino Real Route in California

El Camino Real is one of the many iconic routes in California that shows off the state's beauty and history. Here's what to expect to see.

9 of the Most Fun Things to Do Around UC San Diego

Whether you’re enrolled or just visiting, there are plenty of fun things to do around UC San Diego.

The 5 Best Northern California Wildlife Hiking Trails

Northern California Wildlife is something every outdoor enthusiast should check out, here are the best hiking trails for it.

9 San Jose Landmarks to Look Out For

With a rich past just waiting to be explored, these nine San Jose Landmarks will intrigue all the visitors to the area.

15 Los Angeles-Area Road Trips and Getaways

Even though you'll never run out of things to do in Los Angeles, the city is perfectly situated for exploring all the riches of

Even though you'll never run out of things to do in Los Angeles, the city is beautifully situated to explore the riches of Southern California and—with L.A.'s driving culture—a road trip is just part of the experience.

Whether you live in Los Angeles and are looking for a quick escape or you are traveling there and want to explore a little more of California, here are some popular road trips that can be done as a day trip or as an overnight getaway from LA. Beach options along the coast are abundant, but within one to three hours of Los Angeles, you can retreat to the mountains or desert, explore wine country, experience California history or immerse yourself in mineral springs.

Most of these road trips and getaways presented in the next pages are worth spending a night or two if you have the time and money, but if you don't mind long days and lots of driving, you can do every one of them as a day trip. Depending on who you talk to, a visit to  Santa Monica ,  Pasadena ,  Long Beach  or  Disneyland  may be considered just another day out in LA, a day trip away from LA, or reason enough to get a room and stay overnight.

The distances we've listed are calculated from Hollywood, just to pick a central point. Given the size of LA, the distance could vary by 40 miles, depending on where you're actually starting. The travel times are off-peak driving times, which can be double or more in rush hour traffic. The trick to making most of the more distant locations as a day trip is to start before rush hour so that you're outside of LA before traffic gets jammed. The estimated times posted are for taking the quickest route, but sometimes it's worth taking the scenic route and enjoying the drive. It is a road trip, after all.

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley 

If you want to take a drive for the joy of driving, ​ Malibu  is a great place to start. The city stretches 27 scenic miles west of Pacific Palisades in LA along the south-facing coast at the edge of the Santa Monica Mountains to the Ventura County line. Most of the city is along both sides of Pacific Coast Highway, with access roads that cut through canyons or over mountains to reach State Route 101. The windy mountain roads lead to a number of surprises in the hills, from a stunt ranch and the Biggest Loser Resort to an elaborate Hindu temple.

The Malibu Hills are also home to a number of ranches where you can go horseback riding and vineyards where you can take a Malibu wine tasting tour. The wealthy folks in Malibu don't really appreciate tourists, so there are only a handful of places to stay in Malibu itself. At the high end, the Malibu Beach Inn puts you right in the sand with waves crashing under your balcony. Malibu does have one of the few places you can camp near the beach at the beautiful Leo Carrillo State Park. There is also camping at Malibu Creek State Park, closer to LA, which is technically in the city of Calabasas on the other side of the mountain.

There are 20 named  beaches in Malibu , each with a different personality. Most of them are good for surfing. Some, like Matador, require a hike down to the water, but you're rewarded with gorgeous scenery. Several are just a scramble down a few feet of sand next to Pacific Coast Highway. Others, like Zuma, are long stretches of nondescript sand with good surf breaks, parking, and amenities. 

Things to see along the way include  The Getty Villa , The Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum, and  The Weisman Museum of Art  at Pepperdine University.

• 30 miles or 50 minutes from LA

Ojai  (pronounced Oh' high) is a small town nestled among oak trees and orange groves in an east-west inland valley in Ventura County, about an hour and a half north of Los Angeles. It's another popular destination for a spa retreat or romantic escape. There are multiple destinations with accommodations and day spas, a cute little Spanish-style downtown to explore, nearby trails to hike , and boating or bird watching at nearby Lake Casitas.

• 77 miles, 1 hour 26 minutes

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara  is doable as a day trip from LA and it's not uncommon for people to drive up just for lunch or dinner, but it's more enjoyable as a weekend road trip. Santa Barbara is an upscale community with a uniform red-tiled Mission architecture as mandated by city ordinance. It's most popular as a romantic destination, with lots of places to stroll along the beach, or as a girlfriends' shopping getaway. Beyond the beach, there aren't a lot of family attractions.

The most popular things to do in Santa Barbara are going to the beach, explore State Street shops, and visit the Santa Barbara Mission, one of the oldest in California.

You'll pass the beach cities of Oxnard, Ventura, and Carpinteria on the way to Santa Barbara, which all have nice beaches and more economical accommodations, but they don't have the same charm as Santa Barbara. What that stretch of coast does have is the greatest concentration of places to go camping at the beach.

If you want to get even further away from it all, you can take a side trip to  Channel Islands National Park , a group of five islands off the coast of Ventura, accessible by boat or small plane from Santa Barbara. There are primitive campgrounds, but no concessions on the islands, so take enough water and food for your day trip or camping needs. Outfitted trips are available.

• 89.2 miles, 1 hour 32 minutes

Solvang Winery Getaway

Solvang is a little bit of Denmark plopped in the middle of the  Santa Ynez Valley  about 45 miles northeast of Santa Barbara. It would be just about a two-hour drive without traffic, but is often closer to two and a half hours or more from LA.

The city was founded in 1911, but it wasn't until 1946 that the community mandated that new construction adhere to the aesthetic of Scandinavian half-timbered architecture. Visiting the town now, it looks a lot like wandering the streets of a European village—with just as many touristy souvenir shops. To learn more about Danish culture and the Danish roots of the town, visit the  Elverhoj Museum . There's also a Hans Christian Anderson Museum in the upstairs of the Book Loft. 

The town is surrounded by the vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley, many of which have tasting rooms in town.

Other curiosities in the area include the miniature ponies at the Quicksilver Ranch and  OstrichLand USA  Ostrich farm or take a private tour of  Mendenhall's Museum of Gasoline Pumps and Petroliana  in nearby Buellton.

There's also a casino at the nearby Chumash Indian Reservation. The hotel and spa at the  Chumash Resort  get good ratings, but if gaming is your primary getaway goal, there are better places to go near Palm Springs, San Diego, or Temecula.

• 122 miles, 2 hours 6 minutes

Mountain Getaway to Lake Arrowhead

Raphye Alexius/Image Source/Getty Images

The two most popular mountain destinations from LA are  Lake Arrowhead  and Big Bear Lake. They are only about 25 miles from each other, so if you're going overnight, you could do both.

Lake Arrowhead is closer to LA than Big Bear Lake. The town is smaller and quieter, and many people find its half-timber alpine architecture prettier than Big Bear's more rustic vibe. However, there is less access to the lake itself, as the entire lakefront is private property. For the visiting public, the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa has a restaurant overlooking the lake, a small beach, and boat tours and fishing charters in the summer. Resort guests also have access to the Lake Arrowhead Golf and Country Club at the north end of the lake. In theory, there's a public trail around Lake Arrowhead, but visitors should be prepared to show their room key when hiking around the lake.  

The Village is a shopping area with a variety of boutiques and outlet stores. They also operate the Arrowhead Queen lake tours on a riverboat and a water-skiing school. During the summer, they host a series of free concerts, and in the fall they have a free Oktoberfest (the more famous one in Big Bear charges admission).

There are other accommodations in town including the Saddleback Inn, which offers private cabins, a couple B&Bs and an abundance of vacation rentals, including some large enough to host a family reunion or staff retreat.

The nearest ski resorts to Lake Arrowhead are about 14 miles east on Highway 18, about halfway between Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake Village:  Snow Valley  for downhill skiing, and Rim Nordic for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

• 85.7 miles, 1 hour 37 minutes

Big Bear Lake Ski Getaway

Big Bear Lake  is more developed than Lake Arrowhead, with a lot more recreational options and—usually—more affordable accommodations. The Village at Big Bear Lake is more California mountain rustic than its neighbor, although it has a little of that too. It's still very walkable.

Big Bear is a year-round destination. It's LA's most popular ski escape in winter, with the highly rated Snow Summit just minutes from town and the nearby Bear Mountain offering the biggest beginner and teaching ski area around. Big Bear also has an abundance of summer fun from water sports to hiking, ATVing, and zip-lining, making it a better family destination than Lake Arrowhead.

Housing options range from tent camping to cabin or condo rental to lodges and resorts, so you can plan a getaway for any size group on any budget.

• 103 miles, 2 hours

Old Hollywood Palm Springs Getaway

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Palm Springs  has been a very popular getaway spot from LA since the days when early movie makers used the desert oasis as a set for shooting westerns in the 1930s. You can still see some old west movie sets on a Red Jeep Tour, however, the mass of Mid-Century Modern construction in the 1950s and 60s is more what defines the city's unique look today. Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra, and Dina Shore had iconic Desert Modern estates built in the area. Taking a  guided tour  or using the app or map for a self-guided tour of the modernist architectural landmarks is a popular activity. Every February, the city host a celebration of its architecture during Modernism Week.

You can also take a jeep tour, hummer tour or sunset tour of the San Andreas Fault out in the desert or the San Gorgonio windmills. Many tours depart from neighboring Palm Desert.

Many people go to Palm Springs to just hang out by the pool at their resort hotel and don't really care about doing much else other than finding an interesting place for dinner, of which there are plenty. Resorts are surrounded by manicured golf courses and tennis courts, so you can stay busy without wandering out into the town or the natural environment at all.

Taking the Aerial Tram up to the top of the San Jacinto Mountains is the most popular attraction in the area. The temperature drops drastically from the desert floor to the mountaintop. In winter it might be 60 degrees at the bottom and snowy at the top.

If you want to explore the desert, Indian Canyon is a good place to start. You can explore on your own or take a combination jeep and hiking tour. You can also tour the Palm Springs Wildland Preserves, take a tour that visits a wolf sanctuary or takes a 20-mile bike tour along the San Andreas Fault zone. 

If you'd rather admire the latest fashions and contemporary art than the local flora and fauna, you can take an insider tour of the area's best shopping and art galleries.

The Palm Springs area is home to a number of casinos.

For a really unique Palm Springs luxury getaway, you can  rent Frank Sinatra's house , Twin Palms, a 4-bedroom Mid-Century residence with a piano-shaped pool that still includes original modern furnishings and memorabilia. The house is also available for weddings, corporate events, and private dinner parties. If you're in town with a group of 20-45 people, you can schedule a private tour.

• 112 miles, 1 hour 51 minutes

Desert Getaway to Joshua Tree

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Joshua Tree National Park , with its iconic desert "trees" and enormous boulder formations is a Mecca for rock climbers and hikers. In spring the wildflower enthusiasts descend. Camping is the most common way to experience the park, but there are a number of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals in the town of Joshua Tree and nearby Twenty-Nine Palms.

• 133 miles, 2 hours 13 minutes

Glen Ivy Hot Springs Getaway

courtesy of Glen Ivy Hot Springs

If you're looking for a day of relaxation, a day away at  Glen Ivy Hot Springs  could do the trick. Built on a natural mineral spring near Corona, CA, the 11-acre spa offers a variety of experiences included in their day rate from mineral baths to mud pools and fitness classes, so you could spend the entire day without ever scheduling a treatment. If you do want a massage, facial or other individualized therapy, it's best to book in advance. Most people do Glen Ivy as a day trip, since there's no hotel on the premises, and it's just over an hour from LA, but there are hotels nearby if you want to make a weekend of it. It can get a bit rowdy with bachelorette parties and bigger crowds on spring and summer weekends, so It's most relaxing on a weekday or in midwinter when it's less crowded. It's a desert area, so it's pretty hot in summer, but can still fill up on weekends.

• 63.3 miles, 1 hour 8 minutes

Temecula Old Town Getaway

Temecula is one of those places you definitely have to go to on purpose because it's not on the way to anywhere else you're likely to be going (although you can take a day tour from Palm Springs). For oenophiles, the big draw is the  Temecula Valley wine country , with over 30 vineyards, most of which offer wine tastings. The scenery is beautiful, and wonderfully photogenic, especially in the fall.

The Temecula Olive Oil Company offers Olive View Ranch tours a couple Saturdays a month by reservation, or you can stop by their tasting room in Old Town any day to sample fresh California extra-virgin olive oils and flavored vinegar. In Old Town, where new architecture matches the original old west buildings, you'll also find cute boutiques, specialty shops and restaurants, a lively community theater and a jazz club.

The  Pechanga Resort and Casino  is another big draw in the area. The AAA Four Diamond resort, owned by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians, is the largest casino in the Western US, offering slots, blackjack, poker, craps, and roulette 24/7. If you're not gambling, you can still spend a day at the spa, play a round of golf at the Journey at Pechanga golf course, enjoy big-name entertainment in multiple venues and dine at 10 different eating establishments. There is also an  RV Resort  adjacent to the casino.

Other popular activities in Temecula are hot air ballooning and horseback riding or playing the six championship golf courses. For beer-lovers, there are also four  breweries  in the area.

Temecula hosts an annual Balloon and Wine Festival at the end of May or beginning of June, as well as numerous other music, arts, food and wine festivals throughout the year.

• 90.6 miles, 1 hour 32 minutes

Orange County Beach Getaway

Like the northern LA County Beaches in Malibu, the  southern beaches in Orange County  are more geographically scenic than the long straight stretch through Huntington Beach and it feels more like a getaway the farther south you go. Unlike Malibu, most of the local beach cities also have tons of shopping, nightlife, boat tours, beach butlers and lots of hotels and resorts.

If you were starting at LAX, you could drive along the small coastal roads through the South Bay Beach Cities, around the Palos Verdes Peninsula, through  San Pedro , across the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, through  Long Beach , then back to Pacific Coast Highway to the Orange County beach cities of  Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point and San Clemente. It takes a couple hours, but it's scenic, and you see parts of LA most locals never do. However, if you're starting in Hollywood or Downtown LA, it makes a lot more sense to hop on the freeway, and you can be there in just over an hour. By freeway, it takes about the same time to get to any one of the Orange County beaches down to Dana Point, since you're dropping in on them from above. Driving along the coast, it can take a half hour to an hour to get from Huntington Beach to Dana Point, depending on traffic.

Huntington Beach is the northernmost beach. Surf City, USA has more working class roots than beaches farther south, but it has added a number of upscale gastropubs and fine dining establishments to offset the surfer bars. If you just want to experience that laid-back surfer lifestyle, you'll find it in Huntington Beach, and it may be more affordable than the more southern beaches.

Next is Newport Beach, a 10-mile stretch which is both very affluent and densely populated. It has some of the county's best high-end shopping at Fashion Island, as well as unique boutiques along Pacific Coast Highway. They also have some of the best waves for pro surfers near the pier. Within the embrace of the Newport, Peninsula is a couple of islands accessible by bridge or ferry that are primarily residential, but Balboa Island has a strip of cute shops and restaurants. There are year-round gondola rides around the channels and during the holiday season, special boat tours of the Christmas lights, as well as multiple nights of Christmas boat parades. With the limited road access to the islands and the peninsula, driving and parking can be a real challenge during the summer. At the southern end of the city, Crystal Cove State Park stretches into Laguna Beach, It is a popular spot for tide pooling on the beach side, and hiking into the hills on the inland side of Pacific Coast Highway.

For the entire summer, it's taken over by  Laguna Beach art festivals —three of them at once—and the  Pageant of the Masters  living pictures production. The rest of the year it still has the most scenic beaches, an exceptional number, and range of art galleries, great restaurants, and nice hotels. For those who like to meet the artists, Laguna Canyon road is lined with artist studios and workshops, some of which are open to the public.

South of Laguna is Dana Point, a small town with a harbor deep enough to host  three tall ships , two of them at the Ocean Institute. The big draws in Dana Point are the 5-star accommodations at the  Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel  on Salt Creek Beach and the Monarch Beach Resort, adjacent to the Monarch Beach Golf Links.

Both Newport Beach and Dana Point are famous for their  whale watching  excursions, which Dana Point celebrates with a Festival of Whales the first two weekends in March.

South of Dana Point, Capistrano Beach sits below the town of San Juan Capistrano,  separated from a high bluff by the Coast Highway. The beach itself is a narrow strip of sand between the parking lot and the water.  Mission San Juan Capistrano  is a pilgrimage destination for fans of California and Catholic history, as well as the famous swallows that return every spring. The Mission has a special prayer room within the Serra Chapel dedicated to Saint Peregrine, the patron saint of cancer sufferers.

San Clemente, the southernmost Orange County beach, has the distinction of being the only one where the Metrolink or Amtrak trains let you off steps from the beach. You can take a train from  Union Station  in  Downtown LA  and be on the beach in San Clemente in an hour and a half. San Clemente State Beach also has a  campground , so despite the high property values of those Spanish-style homes, you can actually have a very economical getaway to San Clemente. The town has an even more small-town laid-back vibe than Huntington Beach.

Legoland Road Trip Getaway

Carlsbad is a beach town 95 miles south of Los Angeles, now most famous for being the home of LEGOLAND, CA. It was named for the mineral water discovered in 1882, which had a similar mineral composition to the healing waters of what was then Carlsbad, now Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic. The mineral water spa was a popular attraction during the depression when it was abandoned. The well was re-drilled and the ​ Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa  finally re-opened in 1996. It is a California Historic Site as well as a full-service day spa, but it's not why most people head to Carlsbad.

Families with young children flock to Carlsbad to visit Legoland, a LEGO-themed park with rides and attractions, including special winter-only rides. The Legoland Resort includes two water parks and the Sea Life Aquarium. 

Adults go to Carlsbad to shop the  Carlsbad Premium Outlets , as a dedicated trip, or on the way to San Diego, and seasonally to visit 50 acres of cultivated flower gardens at the  Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch . It's also a nice beach getaway with nice hotels, good restaurants and a beautiful beach with free parking. Downtown Carlsbad is cute to walk around. If you're staying in town, an excursion to the   Craftsmanship Museum  of miniature model engineering, the  Museum of Music Making , or the  GIA gem museum  could add a little diversity to your trip.

• 95.6 miles, 1 hour 37 minutes

La Jolla Surfing Getaway

TripSavvy / Sharyn Umaña-Angers

La Jolla , as its name implies, is the jewel of the San Diego coastline. The affluent northern neighborhood in San Diego has seven miles of waterfront, including the city's three most scenic beaches: La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Shores, and Windansea. The northernmost beach, La Jolla Shores, is a long stretch that merges with Torrey Pines State Beach. It is the most coveted spot for walking, running or lying in the sun, but can be very crowded. La Jolla Cove is surrounded by rocky cliffs and has limited sandy area, but is great for exploring the tide pools at low tide and is the best beach for snorkeling or scuba diving. Windansea is a popular spot for more advanced surfers with hard-breaking waves close to shore.

La Jolla has an abundance of unique shopping, top restaurants, and scenic walks as well as an award-winning theater, one of the top arts festivals in the state and free summer concerts.

• 117 miles, 2 hours

San Diego Sightseeing Getaway

San Diego is a couple hours south of Los Angeles. There are certainly enough attractions in San Diego to fill a week-long vacation, but it's possible to pop down from LA just for the day. You can visit Old Town, have lunch, spend a few hours on a hop on, hop off trolley tour, take a boat tour or visit Balboa Park or  Coronado Island  (both stops on the trolley tour), or take a segway tour and have dinner in the Gas Lamp District and make it back to LA in the same day. You could also spend the whole day doing one thing, like visiting the famous San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park or  SeaWorld .

If you're fond of gaming, the San Diego area also has a number of top-rated Indian Casinos.

• 126 miles, 2+ hours

Getaway to Catalina Island

This favorite getaway for Angelenos is not exactly a road trip, although you have to start out by road. You'll need a ferry to get to  Catalina Island —or a helicopter. Its major city, Avalon, once known as ​a sleepy place with not much to do, now offers all kinds of pampering and adventure experiences, from beach-side massages to  zip-lining  down a mountain.

If you want to get further away from it all, Twin Harbors, at the other end of the island, lacks most of the mod cons of Avalon but is a popular camping and hiking destination.

• 29 miles, 36 min to San Pedro; 30 miles, 36 min to Long Beach, plus 22 miles by ferry

Best of the West: Top Tourist Destinations

Hotels in Los Angeles - Guide to Finding the Best Place to Stay

The 15 Best Day Trips From Los Angeles

15 Best Romantic Things to Do in Orange County

Best Southern California Family Vacations

Best Beachfront Hotels in Southern California

15 Places to Visit in Southern California

The Best Time To Visit San Diego

Malibu: Planning Your Trip

How to Take the Catalina Island Ferry

How to Spend a Day or a Weekend in Laguna Beach

Camping Road Trip: California's Central Coast

California Beach Vacations: Top Places

April in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

September in Los Angeles: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The 10 Best Day Trips From Palm Springs

• National Parks
• Tiny Houses

8 Epic Weekend Road Trips from Los Angeles, California

Posted by Susannah Edelbaum July 20, 2021 Updated May 21, 2024

Living in Los Angeles can feel like a road trip in and of itself — friends live on the East Side but you’re based in Venice? Expect a two-hour drive, and don’t forget to hit the road with plenty of snacks and water.

But even diehard Angelenos need to escape the sprawl at some point. With mountains and desert to the east and some of the world’s most stunning coastline to the city’s north and south, taking a road trip from Los Angeles in any direction will lead you somewhere relaxing, worthwhile, or breathtakingly beautiful.

And for the most part, you don’t even have to leave the state. Whether it’s the chic environs of Santa Barbara or the rugged weirdness of the Salton Sea, these weekend road trips from LA offer something for everyone. And you only have to cross state lines for one of them ( hello, Las Vegas! There’s more to it than ringing, dinging, glittering casinos.)

And for clarity’s sake, the road trips from Los Angeles below leave from downtown, but as any Angeleno knows, YMMV (your mileage may vary.) While every option here is doable in a weekend from the city, do take traffic and business into account: if you leave very early in the morning or, even better, late at night, you’ll likely cut hours off your drive time.

By the way, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles at all of these destinations, but especially in Tahoe and at the national parks. Make sure you’re aware of wildlife and campfire rules, too.

Related Read : 11 Best Resorts in California for Rest & Relaxation

1. Joshua Tree National Park

Just under 800,000 acres and larger than the state of Rhode Island, this national park crosses two deserts (the Mojave and the Colorado), and is named for its most famous flora: the Yucca brevifolia tree of Dr. Seuss-like proportions.

Joshua trees are native to the higher, cooler Mojave Desert section of the park, but the Colorado Desert’s lower elevation to the east offers attractions of its own. There, avid hikers can do a loop around scenic Cottonwood Spring or take in a panorama of the Coachella Valley and San Andreas Fault from Keys View — and on a weekend road trip from Los Angeles, you should have plenty of time to explore vast sections of both sides of the park.

In addition to camping gear, just be sure to pack according to your interests. Joshua Tree, one of the best national parks near Los Angeles , is beloved for rock climbing, bouldering, stargazing, and birdwatching. There are even campgrounds with designated areas for horses, though keep in mind if you plan to ride that its BYOH (bring your own horse).

As you’re planning your road trip out to the park, be sure to check the weather — spring and fall are typically temperate, while winter nights get down to freezing and summer days can hit 100 degrees. Advance reservations for a site in one of the park’s nine different campgrounds are always good idea. The closest entrance by car from Los Angeles is the park’s main entrance in the town of Joshua Tree itself.

There, you can stock up on supplies at the Saturday morning farmer’s market , enjoy a last restaurant meal at a funky diner-with-a-twist ( Crossroads Cafe) , or get a sense of the area’s longstanding status as a haven for artists and other creatives with a visit to the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum of Assemblage Art. It’s a vast outdoor sculpture museum devoted to a local artist who spent the last 15 years of his life creating these massive works in the Mojave Desert.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 131 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic): 2 hours, 10 mins

Related Read: The Ultimate Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

2. Death Valley National Park

For an even more intense weekend road trip desert experience, head to Death Valley National Park. It’s a more extreme environment than Joshua Tree, a little farther away, and at over three million acres, a whole lot bigger. But you can see plenty here in a weekend, whether you’re interested in canyons, waterfalls, or otherworldly sand dunes.

Just keep in mind as you’re planning when to go that summer temperatures can reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit and hiking is inadvisable after 10 a.m. Also, the Furnace Creek Campground takes reservations during the fall and winter, but all other campgrounds in all seasons are first-come, first-served. Luckily, road trippers who would prefer to forgo camping entirely have a couple great options right in the park: the historic Inn at Death Valley (yes, they have a pool) and the more rustic Panamint Springs Resort .

In the park itself, get ready to hike . The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is an easy-to-moderate two-mile trail where you’ll get to see the dunes that are visually synonymous with Death Valley’s landscape. More advanced hikers can take on Panamint Dunes, an eight-mile trail of moderate difficulty (you’ll need a high clearance vehicle to access the trailhead).

Looking for more of a mix of activities on your Death Valley road trip? There’s plenty to do nearby. Visit the Eastern California Museum to get a sense of surrounding Inyo County’s natural and cultural history. Enjoy a night at the theater at the historic Amargosa Opera House . And for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the park itself, the recently renovated Last Kind Words Saloon brings a bit of the Old West to mealtime.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 214 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic): 3 hours, 30 mins

Related Read:  12 Ideas for How to Spend One Day in Death Valley National Park

3. San Diego

Combine a mini beach vacation with a city break on a weekend road trip from Los Angeles down to San Diego. It may sound cheesy, but there’s truly something for everyone here, and in a mere couple hours from Los Angeles, you’ll find yourself in a city with a very different feeling from the one you just left.

So, culture first. In Balboa Park, pay a visit to the San Diego Museum of Art , the San Diego Air and Space Museum , or any one of the other 17 different arts and cultural venues you’ll find here. Balboa Park is also home to the San Diego Zoo (you’ll want a half-day just for the zoo’s 100 acres and 12,000 animals), or if you’d prefer to keep it moving, get the lay of the land by hiking one of Balboa’s many trails .

For a more outdoorsy experience, a half-hour drive from downtown San Diego lands you at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve , set on 1,750 acres of incredible oceanfront. Looking for something a bit more chic? Spend a day at La Jolla Cove, a quaint village as well known for its shops and restaurants as it is for its stunning cliffs (great for sunset photos and snorkeling with sharks). If you want a true surf town vibe, head down to Ocean Beach to sit outside at a beach bar or watch the dogs play at the bayside dog beach.

If that’s not enough, there’s still plenty to do. Catch a movie at the old-school South Bay Drive-In , take a historic ferry to reach Coronado’s white-sand beaches, get a literal sense of local flavors at one of the city’s many farmer’s markets , and plunge into the past at Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá , the oldest Franciscan mission in the state.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 129 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic):  2 hours

Related Read: 7 Awesome Weekend Road Trips from San Francisco, California

4. Santa Barbara

For a chic weekend getaway, take a drive up the coast to Santa Barbara, a pleasant haven of beaches, vineyards, and historic architecture. If you’re traveling with your pup, you’re in luck — make your first stop the dog-friendly Arroyo Burro Beach (known to locals as Hendry’s Beach). East Beach, meanwhile, is ideal for families, thanks to its lifeguard stations, playgrounds, and volleyball courts.

Less than an hour inland, you’ll find yourself in the middle of Santa Barbara wine country. The tasting rooms at Andrew Murray Vineyards and Babcock Winery are just two options to get you started (assuming you have a designated driver, of course.) Back in town, the city’s urban wine trail makes it easy to taste a variety of local vintages at tasting rooms while leaving the car parked at your hotel. Start at Santa Barbara Winery and go from there.

For a sense of the area’s Spanish colonial history, pay a visit to the Old Mission Santa Barbara , founded in 1786, then explore the 11-acre estate Casa del Herrero in neighboring Montecito. Back in town, no Santa Barbara road trip is complete without a stroll down Stearns Wharf , and if you still haven’t gotten your culture fill, be sure to spend at least an hour at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art .

• Distance from Los Angeles: 95 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic):  1 hour, 50 mins

Related Read:   The 10 Best Camping Spots in Santa Barbara, California

5. Palm Springs

Thought you were done with the desert? Not so fast. Palm Springs, a city oasis in the Sonoran Desert, is less than two hours from the city and ideal for a relaxing weekend road trip from Los Angeles.

Known for its midcentury architecture, funky pool hotel scene, hot springs, and spas, the most scenic way to get the lay of the land is with a ride aboard the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway . After your ride, head into Downtown Palm Springs, where you can visit the Palm Springs Art Museum and the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, in addition to plentiful bars, shops, and restaurants.

The culture museum displays the history of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, since more than 10 percent of the city of Palm Springs is on reservation land. This part of town is also home to plentiful galleries and antique store peddling midcentury wares.

From there, you can take your trip in a number of different directions. Greater Palm Springs actually comprises nine different cities (Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella), so no shortage of options.

But you won’t want to miss the mineral waters that first put Palm Springs on the map as a healing destination. Head to Desert Hot Springs (less than 20 minutes from Downtown Palm Springs by car), where you can sit in the healing waters at hotels like The Spring and the Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel. Finally, take in the area’s natural beauty with a hike in Indian Canyons , where you’ll find a variety of trails suitable for all levels.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 107 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic):  1 hour, 45 mins

Related Read:   11 Best Scenic Drives in Southern California

6. The Salton Sea

Get ready to get weird. The Salton Sea, a lake created by accidental irrigation inflow from the Colorado River during the early 20th century, first blossomed into a resort town in the mid-20th century. But it then experienced a massive wildlife die-off thanks to contamination from local farms, spelling the end of the lake’s status as a Riviera-like destination. But despite being viewed as one of California’s worst ecological disasters ever, it’s worth a weekend road trip.

To kick off your time at the lake, start at the Salton Sea State Recreation Area , a genuinely beautiful stretch of shoreline great for fishing, kayaking, hiking and birdwatching (you can also camp.) To get a sense of the lake’s more elegant past alongside its offbeat present, take a drive to Bombay Beach. It’s where you’ll find the ruins of a former resort now home to a tiny community of artists — conveniently, they even stage the Bombay Beach Biennale on an annual basis.

For a weirder bit of local culture, stop into the International Banana Museum , which is exactly what it sounds like: a space devoted to a collection of over 25,000 banana-related items.

But this area is as scenic as it is unusual. For a moderate hike to caves formed around the same time as the Salton Sea, head to a ghost town (Durmid), which marks the beginning of the Bat Caves Buttes loop trail.

The Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is both an important migratory route for numerous bird species and home to Rock Hill (an inactive volcano.) And finally, though it’s about a 25-minute drive from the art of Bombay Beach, visit the Salvation Mountain , a 50-foot-tall painted clay hill created by local sensation Leonard Knight.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 163 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic):  2 hours, 40 mins

Related Read:   12 Best Camping Spots in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

7. Las Vegas

Viva Las Vegas! A weekend road trip here doesn’t have to include a single pull of a slot machine if you aren’t interested in gambling. Check out the Bellagio’s fountain or on-site botanical garden , see the Venetian’s legit indoor canal, go for a ride on the 550-foot-tall Caesar’s Palace Ferris wheel (the High Roller ), then move on to other, non-casino sights.

There’s no cultural venue more fitting to its environs than the Neon Museum , a collection of about 120 neon signs. Next, walk the Aria Fine Art Collection , a self-guided outdoor tour of 21 public art sites. When you’re ready to take a dip, you can buy day passes to area resorts or just pay the admission fee at places like the Citrus Grand Pool Deck and Circa’s Stadium Swim.

If you’ve had your fill of 24-hour neon, take a deep breath and head out to the Desert National Wildlife Refuge , an enormous wilderness home to mountain lions, hundreds of bird species, and 500 different kinds of plants. You may also want to catch a Cirque de Soleil show, eat at one of the city’s award-winning restaurants, or go hiking in Red Rocks. You can even hit the slopes at Lee Canyon (formerly called Ski Las Vegas.)

• Distance from Los Angeles: 269 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic) : 4 hours, 15 mins

Related Read:   Hit the Nature Jackpot: 15 Hikes Near Las Vegas, Nevada

8. South Lake Tahoe

Okay, it’s technically a bit too long to be a weekend road trip from Los Angeles. But if you have a few extra days to spare, South Lake Tahoe is a great choice for those interested in the outdoors who don’t want to rough it. Depending on the season, you should be able to make the most of the lake’s opportunities for beaches, skiing, kayaking, mountain biking, and hiking, among other adventures.

In the Sierra Nevada Mountains on the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. One of its most popular (and admittedly most crowded) beaches is Sand Harbor , on the north side of the lake. Get there very, very early if you want parking on a weekend; cars start lining up around 7 a.m. to get a spot. Back over the border in California, Pope Beach is a mere three miles from the city of South Lake Tahoe. Road tripping in winter?

The mountains around the lake are home to numerous resorts. Skiers and riders can give the 3,600 acres and 30 lifts at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows a try or ski across state lines at Heavenly Resort . No matter the season, don’t deprive yourself of the unmatched views from a ride either of the resort’s aerial tram rides (which are open to non-skiers.)

Lake Tahoe is an outdoor paradise, but you’ll also find historical and cultural offerings dotted around the lake. Visit the Tahoe Heritage Foundation’s Tallac Historic Site to get a sense of what life was like here a century ago, then head to Vikingsholm on the aptly named Emerald Bay. Open for tours during the summer, this 1929 mansion gives a peak into the lives of rich vacationers who first put Tahoe on the map as a resort destination.

Keep in mind that Tahoe names can be a bit confusing. Lake Tahoe is the name of the lake, but there’s no actual town called “Lake Tahoe.” South Lake Tahoe is a town on the south shore, and Tahoe City is on the north shore. Driving from one end of the lake to the other can take about 90 minutes each way in the summer, and South Lake Tahoe is much closer to LA than the north shore.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 440 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic):  8 hours

Related Read:   11 Breezy Oceanfront Camping Spots in California

Plan Your Next Weekend Getaway

8 Best Airbnbs & Cabin Rentals Near Yosemite National Park

20 Best Glamping Spots in California for a Retreat from Civilization

18 Stunningly Secluded Cabin Rentals in California

Sign up for Weekend Wanderer to join thousands of readers getting epic travel and gear ideas every week.

Seen in: California , Road Trips , West

Posted by Susannah Edelbaum

Susannah is a freelance writer based in Berlin. She grew up outside New York, went to school in Southern California, and currently gets most of her outdoors fixes on trips to Bavaria in the south of Germany. Susannah’s work has been published on many authoritative publications such as Fast Company, Modern Farmer and Vice.

The 11 Best Day Trips from San Francisco, California

Find your next adventure.

Sign up for Weekend Wanderer and join thousands of readers getting epic travel ideas weekly.

Related Posts

Visiting the Grand Canyon in Winter: Things to Do & Where to Stay

With a dusting of fresh snow frosting its rust-tinted sandstone walls, Grand Canyon National Park is a simply magical sight.

13 Best Hikes Near Salem, Oregon

Known as Oregon’s state capital, but otherwise overshadowed in many respects by big brother Portland, Salem is like a diamond in the rough.

5 Serene Hot Springs Near Mammoth Lakes, California

After a day of adventure on the slopes, trails, and shores of Mammoth Lakes, head out to the Long Valley Caldera for a relaxing dip in one of the area's many hot springs.

8 Stunning Waterfall Hikes Throughout Oregon

Waterfalls are prolific throughout Oregon, and some of the best are hidden away in unlikely places.

8 Wildly Scenic Drives in Nevada to Explore this Year

Get ready to explore the parks and ghost towns of the Silver State by highway.

Must-See Stops on a Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip

Maine is arguably the best place to spend your vacation time on the East Coast, with remote and rugged landscapes, numerous farms and ranches, old historic towns, lighthouses, and stunning swaths of coastline.

6 Outdoorsy Weekend Road Trips from Salt Lake City, Utah

From family-friendly desert towns to national parks, everyone can find a way to satisfy that vacation bug with a short weekend road trip.

10 Exhilarating Things to Do in Aspen in the Summer

Aspen is known for its wintertime fun in the snow, but this mountain town has plenty to offer in the summertime too.

30 Best Day Trips From Los Angeles

If you live in Los Angeles or just visiting the City of Angels and want to get out of the city, there are a lot of amazing day trip options.

Just so we're on the same page, we're not counting LA neighborhoods as day trips out. Santa Monica, Venice Beach , Culver City and Pasadena are great places to go but don't quite achieve the objective of getting out of the city, so we'll focus on actual day trips from Los Angeles.

If you're after a longer trip that might cover a weekend, a week or even longer, check out our list of the best road trips from Los Angeles instead.

Given the sprawl of L.A., it was somewhat of a challenge to define exactly where we're counting the starting point to be and to make things simple I've gone for the City Hall. If you're in different parts of Los Angeles, some of the timings and distances can be quite different.

Our day trips include some of California's finest beaches, historic towns, drives into the desert and up mountains, kid-friendly trips and theme parks - we hope you find something you like!

We've put together our list of the 30 best day trips from Los Angeles ordered by the time it will take you to get there.

1. Spend the day at Knott's Berry Farm

30 minutes from Los Angeles (22 miles)

Knott's Berry Farm is only about 30 minutes from Los Angeles in Buena Park. What started as a small roadside berry stand along State Route 39 in the 1920s.

From there it slowly developed to add a restaurant, visitor entertainment, cafe, rides and before you know it, there's 4 million visitors a year and 40 spectacular rides making it one of the most popular theme parks in the United States.

While there are a few roller coasters, Knott's Berry Farm is family friendly with lots of attractions for all ages including classics like a swinging pirate ship and a 100-year old carousel as well as Camp Snoopy which is an entire area with children's rides.

If you are a thrill seeker, there are some amazing rides here. Montezuma's Revenge is the only remaining Schwarzkopf Shuttle Loop coaster in North America and one of only 5 left in the world (interestingly exactly 1 exists on every continent except Australia).

This coaster launches at 60 mph and passes through a loop before stalling at the top of a tall vertical section before heading back in reverse through the same loop.

2. Discover the magic of Disneyland Park in Anaheim

35 minutes from Los Angeles (26 miles)

If you are in L.A. and you haven't visited Disneyland, the obvious question is why not?

If you have kids, you absolutely have to go to the original Disneyland that came before Florida Paris and the other parks built around the world. If you don't have kids, I bet you still want to go and you should!

The rides may not be as exhilarating as Knott's Berry Farm or Magic Mountain (above and below in this list), but the atmosphere, Disney characters all over the park and the original Sleeping Beauty Castle are something you've got to see at least once in your life.

California's Disneyland can get busy, especially during the summer and at weekends. It's a good idea to book your tickets online before you come and drive down early before the rush hour starts. The park opens at 10 a.m. on most days although sometimes only opens its doors at 9 - check the schedule before you head over.

There are some great cafes and restaurants where you can pick up breakfast and you save a lot of time not having to queue.

Make sure you stay late and grab dinner in Disneyland. The evenings have amazing shows and fireworks at 9 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. - the last one usually a sign it's time to head for the exit if you've made it that far into the night!

3. Get an adrenaline rush at Six Flags Magic Mountain

45 minutes from Los Angeles (35 miles)

To close off our inadvertent theme park section, the Santa Clarita edition of the Six Flags is the Magic Mountain and if you are a thrill seeker, this is the place to come.

There are 19 roller coasters in the park as well as other kinds of rides, activities, places to eat and stroll. This is more than any other theme park in the world which is some feat.

Although some of the older coasters are gradually making way, they keep adding new ones with the West Coast Racers coaster being added in January 2020. It's one of only a handful in the world that has a Möbius loop section.

If it takes you just 20 minutes to walk to, queue up, go on the ride and get off it, it will take you 6 and a half hours just to ride each roller coaster once - should be more than enough for a day trip!

Tickets can be pretty reasonable if you book online in advance with rates below $50 per person, although expect to pay double if you pay on the day. Season tickets bough early are a great option if you're going to be going at least twice.

4. Go to Surf City at Huntington Beach

50 minutes from Los Angeles (36 miles)

Huntington Beach is just south of Los Angeles and not far from Laguna Beach a few miles further south down the coast (#6 below) and the towns of San Juan Capistrano (#10) and San Clemente (#12).

If you want to have a busy day, you can pack all 4 in, but I'd split them up into separate trips and make the most of a lazy day watching the waves roll in.

Huntington Beach trademarked its moniker of Surf City USA after a legal battle with Santa Cruz in Northern California. Hence, if you're into surfing or just enjoy the ocean waves, this might just be the right place to come!

Huntington Beach is simpler and less fancy than its Laguna Beach neighbor - you get 10 miles of perfect sand, a long pier that stretches into the sea and a few places to eat and relax.

If you're after art galleries, posing for photos or celebrity spotting in nice restaurants, then keep on driving south for another 10 minutes.

5. Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park

50 minutes from Los Angeles (44 miles)

Vasquez Rocks is the place to come if you want to get out into nature without straying too far from Los Angeles or if you're a serious movie buff and want to see the famous location.

Vasquez Rocks is a short drive north from L.A., past Santa Clarita and is on the edge of Angeles National Forest and Antelope Valley.

The Rocks are not the biggest, but the formation has such a unique look, that Hollywood producers have used it in some of the biggest movies of all time. We're talking Star Trek, Planet of the Apes, Zorro, The Flintstones and the A-Team TV series.

If you look hard enough, the rocks have made cameo appearances in a crazy number of other movies where you might struggle to remember the scene. Jingle All The Way, Austin Powers and John Carter are just some of the dozens of movies that filmed here.

If you're a fan of TV series, I think it's pretty hard to name one that didn't film here. Lassie? Yep. 24? Of course! It's near L.A.! C.S.I, The Lone Ranger and even Power Rangers all used it (I think you can probably remember some of them)!

A visitor center will tell you a bit about the local area, the way the rocks were formed to look like everything from Tibet to other planets and give you an insight into the hundreds if not thousands of adverts that continue using the location all the time.

6. Visit the iconic Laguna Beach in Orange County

1 hour from Los Angeles (50 miles)

Laguna Beach is one of the most famous beaches in California. In fact, it's not just one beach but a long stretch of the coast that has different kind of beaches from white sand to rocky coves for you to explore.

Laguna Main Beach is known for being a lot more than just a beach. The arts scene has become a big deal here and there are a number of art galleries and shops where you can look at and purchase pieces by local artists.

Be careful though - as the reputation has grown, there are a number of crazy priced places in town making the most of the price insensitive visitors. You can still find the great local craftsmen, but you'll need to look around.

Even if you're not into art, a walk through the downtown area is great - it's a relaxed small town with pretty buildings and you can sip a drink sitting in the sun at one of the cafes watching the world go by.

Make sure you do find the tide pools in the rocky coves as well as relaxing on the wide sand beaches. Treasure Island (in the picture) is the best place to see some sea creatures, but remember not to touch them or move them - these are delicate coastal ecosystems so leave them be.

Please check our comprehensive guide out to learn more:

READ MORE - Our Guide to Laguna Main Beach

7. Hike in the Santa Monica Mountains

1 hour from Los Angeles (34 miles)

Santa Monica Mountains sit along the coast of California roughly covering the area north of the Malibu coastline.

If you are in L.A. and want to go on a hike, this is the closest option and there are hiking routes for all levels that can take anything from 20 minutes to more than you can cover in a day.

Although the mountains are only just over 30 miles from downtown Los Angeles, it will take you about an hour on average to break through the traffic and get out of the city, but once you get here, it will feel very different to the busy highways!

There is plenty of parking available and even on busier days, you shouldn't have a problem finding a spot and going for a stroll. Bring your dog with you if you have one - you'll notice that at least half of the people you'll come across do so.

As you go higher up, views across the mountains open up and you'll see the Pacific ocean stretching to the horizon.

There are over 500 miles of trails in the mountains and although you are highly unlikely to actually see any animals, the mountains are home to coyotes, bobcats and even mountain lions so keep your eyes peeled and you might be lucky to see one.

8. San Gabriel Mountains National Monument in the Angeles National Forest

1 hour 5 minutes from Los Angeles (50 miles)

The San Gabriel Mountains are hard to miss if you are in Los Angeles - they are the big mountain peaks that provide the backdrop to the city and can be seen from most neighborhoods.

Thse mountains don't only provide the natural boundary to the metro area but also supply drinking water for the city and are a perfect place to go hiking.

The Mountains were declared a National Monument by President Obama in 2014 to protect the city from expanding into and beyond the mountains, protecting its plants and the natural habitat for many different animal species.

The mountains reportedly have over 300 plant species that are endemic to the area and grow nowhere else in the world.

The San Gabriel Mountains have a few sights worth seeing on your day trip. If you are a hardy hiker, you can go find the Bridge To Nowhere in the Sheep Mountain Wilderness. The bridge was built as part of a road construction project in the 30s that was abandoned 2 years later and mysteriously leads to precisely nowhere at all.

Mount San Antonio, also known as Mount Baldy is the tallest peak in the range and there is a choice of different hiking routes that can take you to the top including the well known Devils Backbone.

For those who like to cheat to get their views, a ski lift can take you up to the Top of the Notch Restaurant, which at 7,300 feet is still almost 3,000 feet below Mt. San Antonio's peak. Although you cut the hike considerably, it's still over 6 miles to get up there, but the views from Top of the Notch are... top notch enough.

9. Relax on the beaches of Malibu

1 hour 10 minutes from Los Angeles (33 miles)

Malibu is a long stretch of some of the best beaches you will see anywhere in the world along the Pacific Coast Highway starting shortly after you pass Santa Monica and the Pacific Palisades.

Malibu is often associated with the seaside villas of the rich and famous, but there is a lot more to this place than that.

The beaches are varied and although Malibu is very popular with Angelenos at weekends, if you drive another 10 to 20 minutes along the coast, you'll find plenty of spots with far fewer people.

Head for the El Matador State Beach to find secluded coves that are far enough away to be surprisingly empty and perfect for spending the day.

If you want to do something other than lying on the beach, the Santa Monica Mountains are right behind you and offer unlimited hiking opportunities (see #7 above).

Alternatively, you can go visit one of the local wineries. Malibu is one of a small number of places in the world with the Mild Mediterranean climate type which apparently is perfect for vineyards, so although this is not Napa or Sonoma, you may be surprised by what you find.

10. See Southern California's history at San Juan Capistrano

1 hour 10 minutes from Los Angeles (55 miles)

The Mission of San Juan Capistrano is south of Los Angeles, just over an hour along the I-5. Dating back to 1776, many of the Mission's buildings date back to the 18th and early 19th centuries making it an amazing day trip from L.A.

Most of the buildings belonging to the Mission are open to visitors including the chapel, the Mission Basilica and a special museum.

Make sure you check out the small town around the Mission as well. It grew at roughly the same time and the Los Rios Historic District has a few homes and shops that date back to the 1700s!

To make more of the day, you can visit San Juan Capistrano in the morning and then go to Laguna Beach (#6 above) to grab some lunch and spend the afternoon watching the waves roll in or exploring the tide pools at Treasure Island.

Another option is to head a few minutes further south to San Clemente (#12 below) and grab a bite to eat right by the pier.

11. Make time go slow on Balboa Island in Newport Beach

1 hour 10 minutes from Los Angeles (45 miles)

A short drive south from Los Angeles is the city of Newport Beach and in the Newport Bay there is a small man-made island called Balboa.

After you get to Newport Beach you can explore the famous beach here before traveling to Balboa Island.

Instead of getting your car onto the island via the small bridge or the 3-car ferry, park up and catch the ferry ride on foot instead to save time, money and make it a lot easier once you are on the island.

The boardwalk around the perimeter of the island is about 2 miles long and great for gentle stroll. Then head to Marine Avenue (where the bridge from Newport meets the island) and have lunch at one of the many amazing restaurants.

With the houses having a classic feel to them, the eerily perfect street layout, quaint shops and restaurants, Balboa Island has a certain Truman Show vibe about it - you'll know what I mean when you get there!

If you get here early, you might not want to spend the whole day on Balboa Island. The good news is that Laguna Beach (#6 above) and Huntington Beach (#4) are both great options for an afternoon by the sea to complete the perfect day trip.

12. Spend the day by the ocean in San Clemente

1 hour 15 minutes from Los Angeles (62 miles)

Just when you thought we like our beaches a little too much, we thought we'd add another option to the list. Don't worry though - this is the last of the beaches on our list, but beaches really are one of the best road trip options from L.A. so here we go.

San Clemente is a relaxed seaside town further down the coast from Laguna Beach and just after you pass the turning to San Juan Capistrano (#10 above) at Dana Point.

In fact, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano go hand in hand if you want to combine the two trips - my tip is to head to the Mission and Historic District in the morning before the tourist crowds get there and then head to the beach to relax in the afternoon.

Unlike Huntington and Laguna Beach, San Clemente is a little more relaxed and less busy. It's far enough from Los Angeles and San Diego that city dwellers getting out to lie on the sand go for closer options.

The The San Clemente Pier is the main attraction and the beach near it is the best place to relax. The Fisherman's Restaurant right by the pier is very good and you can enjoy some fish overlooking it - one of the better ways to do lunch!

If you want to do something other than lazing around, there is a culture and local history museum a little up the hill called Casa Romantica. You get decent views when you get up there and the gardens around the museum are included in the ticket price.

13. Learn about California's history at the Fort Tejon State Historic Park

1 hour 15 minutes from Los Angeles (75 miles)

Fort Tejon is a historic military fort in the Grapevine Canyon that was established in 1854 as a defence hub and garrison protecting the new California settlements from Indian raids.

Although the fort was only occupied for 10 years, it has recently been restored to show what life in the fort and this part of California in general was like in the 1850s and 1860s.

The fort has actors that aim to help you explore the history in a more interactive way. You'll find U.S. Army soldiers, a carpenter, blacksmith, servants and laborers who will try to make you feel like you have stepped back in time.

Although there is a lot to see here, you'll notice there are relatively few visitors to the fort. Tickets only cost a nominal fee of $6 per vehicle before discounts.

Although it's a bit of a detour, the Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park is a good stop on the way up to or back from Fort Tejon to make more of the day.

You can head east from the Fort and drive down through the Antelope Valley (see #14 below) - Vasquez Rocks will be right on the way back to Los Angeles from there.

14. Walk through the California Poppy hills in Antelope Valley

1 hour 20 minutes from Los Angeles (79 miles)

Antelope Valley sits on the western edge of the Mojave desert to the north of San Gabriel Mountains.

The valley is best known for the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve which is a relatively short drive out of the city and if you're planning a day trip from Los Angeles in March or April, this should be top of your list.

The bright orange poppies and other wild flowers come into bloom in early March and stay bright through to late April and sometimes into the first week of May.

The reserve has 3.3 mile South and North Loop trails that take you across the hills that are completely covered in the wildflowers.

Because of the narrow window when visitors flock here for the flowers, expect it to be relatively busy, especially at weekends.

Make sure you stick to the trails and don't pick the flowers. Not only is it illegal in California to pick wildflowers on State property, the Mojave green rattlesnakes live in the undergrowth so keep your hands away!

15. Visit the small town of Oxnard

1 hour 25 minutes from Los Angeles (62 miles)

Many people won't think of Oxnard as a good day trip option from Los Angeles and drive straight through on their way to Ventura and the Channel Islands (see #29 below), Santa Barbara (#19) or further afield.

But Oxnard is a great place to come for the day - it's less than 90 minutes from downtown L.A. and you can stop off en route anywhere along the Malibu beaches as a bonus.

There is not 1 but 4 main reasons to visit Oxnard: Classic cars, local wine, watching whales and other sea creatures and the Strawberry Festival.

For those who like their cars to be older than themselves, Oxnard has two amazing classic car museums. The Mullin Automotive Museum has some spectacular cars from the 1920s, 30s and 40s. The world's most expensive car, the 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is in the museum as one of only 3 surviving models from 4 that were ever made!

For the muscle car fans, the Murphy Auto Museum has some of the best Detroit had to offer in the 60s and 70s, but the museum is only open at weekends so plan your day trip accordingly.

Oxnard is also home to 3 wineries including the world's largest Kosher winery which also serves up a great lunch - the Herzog Wine Cellars. You might want to opt for staying over or pick straws for who will be the designated driver!

The Strawberry Festival happens over a weekend in the middle of May and is one of the largest festivals in Southern California. There are dozens of food booths, endless arts and crafts stalls, fairground rides and every kind of strawberry food and drink for you to try.

16. Relive your childhood at Legoland in Carlsbad

1 hour 30 minutes from Los Angeles (90 miles)

Legoland in Carlsbad was the first to open outside Europe and has been in California for over 20 years.

It's the perfect place to come as a family with younger kids - there are endless Lego-based things to do and activities and a selection of amazing things built out of Lego including some of the world's most famous landmarks and cities.

Coming in the summer is best as the park's water rides are one of the best features although there are over 60 rides in the theme park offering something for everyone and a lot more value than just the Lego entertainment.

The hours vary day to day and across seasons, so be careful to check before coming to make sure you don't arrive 2 hours before it opens!

Don't miss the Sea Life Aquarium which is located inside. There are a lot of sea creatures and large tanks that come complete with Lego-themed touches and figures.

After your visit, spend an hour or two in Carlsbad itself. The town is often overlooked, but it's worth taking a walk through the streets and grabbing a coffee before heading back to Los Angeles.

17. See the Cabazon Dinosaurs

1 hour 30 minutes from Los Angeles (91 miles)

While we're on the kids entertainment theme, let's mention the Cabazon Dinosaurs.

You probably have never heard of them, but these life-sized dinosaurs stand just off the I-10 on the way to Palm Springs and pretty hard to miss from the highway.

It's easy to come off the Interstate and park up and coming up and close to the dinosaurs is free. There's a few fast food outlets where you can make your children's day even more perfect.

Don't forget that you can climb up inside two of the dinosaurs to have a look around and visit a gift shop to get a t-shirt or a T-Rex toy!

Given you're driving this far and the fact that you won't want to spend much longer than an hour taking a look at the dinosaurs, you can combine the trip with either Palm Springs (20 minutes further down the road - #20 below) or a hike in the San Gorgonio Wilderness (#25) to make more of the drive.

18. Wine tasting in Temecula Valley

1 hour 30 minutes from Los Angeles (85 miles)

When people think of Californian wine, the northern regions of Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino and White River will usually first come to mind. But these are a good 7 hours' drive from Los Angeles.

Luckily enough, the Temecula Valley is much closer, relatively unknown and has a surprisingly large variety of very good vineyards so if you want to do some wine tasting and bring some bottles home, head to Temecula Valley, about 90 minutes southeast of L.A.

There are over 40 wineries in the region with spectacular locations complete with mountain backdrops to the neat rows of grape vines.

To make the most of it, you might want to stay the night and enjoy the wine tasting without having to have a designated driver. Old Town Temecula is well worth a visit too - there's a lot of local boutique shops, places you can buy local wine or drink it while listening to live music.

19. Escape to Santa Barbara & Montecito

1 hour 40 minutes from Los Angeles (95 miles)

Under 2 hours up the coast from Los Angeles is the city of Santa Barbara. The busy highways running through Los Angeles and the downtown skyscrapers are swapped for a relaxed cafe culture and red roof tiles.

Santa Barbara is famous as an amazing place to live - the coastal weather is near-perfect, the charming streets and local focus on the outdoors and health has brought many of Hollywood's rich and famous to make Santa Barbara their home.

If you want to a cultural sight on your way around, Mission Santa Barbara is a Franciscan mission dating back to 1786 that is open to visitors.

Montecito is a small town just outside Santa Barbara right on the edge of the towering mountains of the Los Padres National Forest. Where Santa Barbara attracts the wealthy, Montecito is where the super wealthy, the likes of Oprah and Brad Pitt, call home.

If you want to get a feel for what it's like to live here, the Casa del Herrero is an open house museum in town.

20. Palm Springs - the oasis in the middle of a desert

1 hour 45 minutes from Los Angeles (107 miles)

Palm Springs is somewhat of an anomaly. The town with lush green lawns, golf courses, water features, ponds and palm trees sits right in the middle of a hot and inhospitable desert with the mountains of Mt. San Jacinto State Park on one side and Joshua Tree National Park on the other.

If you want to spend a day relaxing in a spa, playing a round of golf (not in the summer!) or going up to the peak of Mt. San Jacinto in a rotating gondola of the Aerial Tramway, then Palm Springs is where you should be headed.

Remember that summer in the desert is hot. I'm talking average daily highs in the 100s (over 40 °C) so you won't want to spend too much time outside and jump from one air-conditioned environment and into another.

A lot of the architecture of Palm Springs goes back to the time it rose to prominence as a place to party in the 50s and 60s. The modernist houses with sharp square angles give the city its unique look and a feel of retro chic.

21. Spend the day at a retreat in Ojai

1 hour 45 minutes from Los Angeles (81 miles)

The Ojai Valley is between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, tucked away below the mountains north of Ventura.

It has become increasingly popular with L.A. residents in the know as the place to escape the city at the weekend for some downtime, relaxing stone massages and walking through fruit orchards.

The town of Ojai has adopted the health and wellness trend and the restaurants here will have a great selection for any diet whether you're vegan, on a paleo, keto or any other diet.

The hotels in Ojai can be pretty expensive even if you're going for the lower end of the spectrum so a day trip to unwind and recharge your batteries is a good way to experience it on a budget.

If you do stay over though, make sure you try a local wine and pop into town to see quirky little shops selling home decorations and vintage clothing. There's a definite hipster vibe about the place!

22. Unwind for the day on Santa Catalina Island

2 hours from Los Angeles (24 miles to San Pedro + a ferry)

Getting to Santa Catalina Island from L.A. is reasonably straight-forward. You'll need to drive to either Long Beach or San Pedro to catch one of the fast ferries over to the island. You'll need to leave your car behind - you won't need it on the island!

The drive down will take an hour, the ferry usually takes a bit over an hour and you'll need to account for the time to park up, get your ticket and board the ferry. Although it's a 2 hour journey, you'll be relaxing for most of it and not sat behind the steering wheel.

Santa Catalina Island is all about walking and seeing the beautiful nature. Surrounded by rocky cliffs, there are a few shipwrecks you can explore and spot flying fish, seals and sea lions.

The island also has its own herd of bison that roam around the island. 14 of them were brought here for a movie shoot in 1924 and then abandoned on the island to save cost.

The bison scene was cut from the final movie, but now you get the pleasure of watching the magnificent animals in their adopted home.

The port of Avalon where the ferry comes and goes from is the perfect place to get some lunch and enjoy views of the marina, surrounded by the island's hills. Time your visit so that you eat there when you arrive or just before boarding!

23. Head for Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake

2 hours from Los Angeles (100 miles)

Lake Arrowhead and the Big Bear Lake are a 2 hour drive east from Los Angeles into the San Bernardino National Forest.

The two lakes are only 15 miles apart, but the mountainous twisty roads mean it'll take you an hour to drive from one to the other. And that's assuming you're not going in the winter!

Big Bear Lake is the further of the two and is all about staying active. You can spend the day kayaking, paddling or boating on the lake during the summer or go skiing in Snow Mountain and Bear Mountain ski resorts during the cold winter months.

Lake Arrowhead is very different - almost the entire shoreline of the lake is privately owned and the Lake Arrowhead Village has a more upscale feel than the resort type vibe of Big Bear Lake.

Lake Arrowhead is also lower down which means it is not as snowy and cold in the winter. If you want to go to a retreat in a pine forest, enjoy a few hours in a spa and have a fancy dinner to end the day, Lake Arrowhead is the place to go.

24. San Diego and La Jolla

2 hours from Los Angeles (120 miles)

The other big city in Southern California is only 2 hours down the coast so you can easily explore the main sights and walk through some of the neighborhoods on a day trip from L.A.

As it is known for having one of the least seasonal climates in the United States, San Diego is perfect to visit all year round .

The heart of San Diego is the Gaslamp neighborhood - this is where you can sit in the restaurants, bars and cafes in the evening catching the relaxing sea breeze.

La Jolla is a neighborhood just to the north of downtown San Diego. It's known for its wealthy residents and fancy restaurants, but also for the sea lions who have made La Jolla Cove their home and can be seen there most of the time.

Other than the famous San Diego Zoo, I wouldn't spend too much time visiting museums and staying indoors. Two of the best activities are riding the traditional red trolleys and trying the fish taco street food - the zesty salad and avocado are worth skipping lunch for!

25. Oak Glen and the San Gorgonio Wilderness

2 hours from Los Angeles (98 miles)

Oak Glen is a small village about 90 minutes from downtown L.A. that is known for being mad about apples.

Naturally enough, the best time to visit is during the apple harvest season in September and October. The fall season in California may not be full of golden and red leaves but this is a great place to come to get that autumnal feeling.

You can buy a U-pick bag for the day and walk through the apple orchards picking your apples or head straight to the Oak Tree Village which is full of shops, entertainment and all things apple-themed right down to cider!

After you've picked your apples, you can drive another half an hour to the San Gorgonio Wilderness. This mountainous protected area is on the edge of the San Bernardino National Forest around the San Gorgonio Mountain peak.

You'll need to get a free wilderness permit before coming - you can get them online from the National Forest management.

Most of the wilderness is located at above 7,000 feet (2,100 m) and there are two small rivers (creeks to those from outside California) so make sure you come wearing layers as it can get cool up there!

The area has recently been designated as the Sand to Snow National Monument and there are lots of marked hiking trails to follow if you drive over to Forest Falls from Oak Glen to park and find the trail starting points.

26. Joshua Tree National Park

2 hours 20 minutes from Los Angeles (130 miles)

Joshua Tree is the closest National Park to Los Angeles and named after the Joshua tree that grows in southern California and Nevada.

The park is one big desert with lots of hiking trails, over 300 different places you can camp and a few interesting rock formations.

Take care if you plan to visit Joshua Tree in the summer - daily highs average 100 °F (38 °C) and there is little in the way of facilities anywhere in or near the park so bring plenty of drinking water and key necessities with you.

Many of the most popular rocks and trails in Joshua Tree are at the end closes to L.A. The Intersection Rock and Arch Rock formations are only a few miles apart and Skull Rock is in-between.

There are some easy trails in the area - the popular Hidden Valley Trail is only about a mile long starting at Intersection Rock and you can drive up to Keys View which is the highest point in the park offering views of the mountains and Coachella Valley.

27. Explore the Danish village of Solvang, California

Solvang is a village that was originally founded by a group of Danish settlers and it has remained so incredibly Danish, it's well worth the 2 hour drive from Los Angeles.

The village has traditional Danish-style houses which look distinctly European, 4 windmills and classic Danish shops.

You can go on a tour around Solvang in a tram or one of the horse-drawn carriages. Not that you'll have to go far - the town is pretty small and very walkable.

Aside from seeing the Danish village, Solvang is also home to the Mission Santa Ynez which dates back to 1804 and worth visiting. The Santa Ynez valley has some great wineries as well in case you want to stock up straight from the vineyard before heading back to L.A.

The quirky Danish village has grown in popularity over time which means it can be a little on the touristy end. You might want to spend the morning here if you set off early and then spend the afternoon either driving around the scenic Los Padres National Forest (#30 below) or stop at Santa Barbara and Montecito (#19) or Oxnard (#15) to break up the journey.

28. Go to the place time forgot at Salton Sea

2 hours 30 minutes from Los Angeles (164 miles)

People disagree as to whether Salton Sea is a lake, a kind of inland sea or a man-made reservoir. Bizarrely, it was created accidentally in 1905 when engineers miscalculated their minor diversion of the Colorado River for a local irrigation project.

As the land here was a desert that at one point was covered by seawater, the huge amounts of salt in the ground meant that the lake's water is far from fresh. In fact it has almost twice as much salt as the Pacific Ocean and the salinity is increasing at a rate of 3% per year.

A popular tourist destination in the 1950s, Salton Sea declined sharply in the following decades and today it is fascinating to visit to see the old signs, small ghost towns and abandoned buildings.

If you have time to drive around the lake, one of the sights is the Salvation Mountain - a big mound built by a local resident with large transcriptions of verses from the Bible.

The Borrego Springs Sculptures are a few miles west of Salton Sea and worth the diversion. Just when you thought the place couldn't get any more weird, you'll find giant statues made of metal of things like serpents, flying dinosaurs and elephants in the middle of the desert.

29. Ventura, California and the Channel Islands National Park

2 hours 30 minutes from Los Angeles (68 miles to Ventura + a ferry)

The Channel Islands National Park is just off the coast of California sitting on a chain of 5 major and several smaller islands about 20 miles from Ventura.

The difficulty in getting there means that the Channel Islands hold are the least visited National Park in the United States, but this is a hugely undeserved title and is actually a great reason to visit.

Ventura is about two thirds of the way to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles along the coast and it should take you a little over an hour to get there. From Ventura, you'll need to get on a ferry to the Channel Islands. The nearest group of islands are the Anacapa Islands and it takes about an hour to get there, 2 to get to the much bigger Santa Cruz Island and 3 hours to go all the way to Santa Rosa.

There's not a great deal to see on Anacapa - the small and narrow islands offer great views of the rest of the range from the top of the ridge (in the photo above), but to really explore the area, it's worth getting to Santa Cruz.

Here you'll be able to trek around the island, discover hidden coves and rocky caves where dolphins, flying fish, seals and whales can be spotted in the water and condors and bald eagles roam the skies.

If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the Island Fox which is native to and only lives on the islands.

Be careful to catch the last ferry back to the mainland. There are are limited comforts for staying overnight. There are no hotels or lodging of any kind, no shops and very limited facilities available so be there at boarding time to avoid sleeping in the wind under the stars.

30. Drive up Figueroa Mountain in Los Padres National Forest

3 hours from Los Angeles (143 miles)

Ok. A 3 hour drive from Los Angeles one-way is stretching the definition of a day trip slightly, but there's one good reason why a drive up the Figueroa Mountain made it into the list.

The drive to and up the mountain is the experience. The views as you go up and the perfect driving roads on the way through flowering fields as you can see more and more of the Pacific Ocean is what you come here for.

With the other 29 destinations on our list the thing you see when you get there is the reason to go. So take the day, get in the car and get ready for a mini road trip you'll complete before dinner time!

Figueroa Mountain lies on the edge of the Los Padres National Forest and overlooks the Santa Ynez Valley below. You can get here slightly faster along Highway 101, but if you get on the road half an hour earlier, you can take the scenic route along the coast through Malibu.

Places like Oxnard, Santa Barbara and Montecito are all along the way and further up in our list, so there's plenty of great options for stops for a drink or lunch.

A big sign will greet you when you reach the top saying you're at the Figueroa Lookout and from here you get almost uninterrupted views over the mountains and valleys all the way around!

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

5 one-tank road trips from Los Angeles, California

Use this guide for inspiration for your next locally-based road trip from the City of Angels—without needing to stop for gas

By Roadtrippers

Between high gas prices, limited vacation days, and chaotic air travel, taking a local road trip is more appealing than ever this summer. These five destinations are all within 300 miles (round-trip) of Los Angeles, California, making them ideal for quick getaways. Spend less time at the pump and more time enjoying the road. 

If you’re in an electric vehicle, we’ve noted whether you can expect to find chargers along each route as well. 

1. Joshua Tree, California

Total mileage: 280 miles

Located about 2 hours east of Los Angeles, the high desert town of Joshua Tree is home to vintage boutiques, cozy cafes, roadside attractions, and a national park. The park straddles two main ecosystems—the Mojave and the Colorado deserts—and is a popular destination for climbers due to its world-famous boulders. Stay overnight for amazing stargazing.  

Don’t miss: Spend a day hiking or climbing in Joshua Tree National Park . Pick up some souvenirs and check out the Muffler Man at The Station , enjoy eccentric art at the tiny World Famous Crochet Museum or the sprawling Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum , and stroll through Pioneertown ’s Mane Street, originally built as an Old West movie set. End the day with a meal, a drink, and live music at Pappy & Harriet’s .  

Stay: Book a vintage trailer at the fun and funky Hicksville Trailer Palace or camp under the stars at Indian Cove Campground .

Charge: A handful of public charging stations are available in the Joshua Tree area. Palm Springs, which is a 30-mile drive away, has a lot more options.

2. Solvang, California

Total mileage: 260 miles

Take a trip north along Pacific Coast Highway to the historic Danish village of Solvang. Located at the foot of the Santa Ynez Mountains, in the heart of Santa Barbara’s wine country, Solvang is a quaint tourist destination for those looking for a taste of Scandinavia. Here you’ll find Danish architecture, pastries, trinkets, and multiple windmills scattered throughout town.  

Don’t miss: Learn about Danish history and culture at the Elverhøj Museum and Hans Christian Andersen Museum , or admire the two-wheeled collection at the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum . Stroll through Solvang Village and pick up a souvenir at Rasmussen’s Gifts or a Danish pastry at Mortensen’s Danish Bakery . Round out your visit with a wine or olive oil tasting at one of the area’s many wineries.

Stay: Book one of 12 rooms at the European-style Mirabelle Inn or spend the night camping or glamping in the scenic Cachuma Lake Recreation Area just outside of town. 

Charge: Public charging stations, and especially fast chargers, are limited in Solvang, so EV drivers should plan accordingly.

3. Borrego Springs, California

Total mileage: 300 miles

This small desert town is a lesser-known—and less crowded—alternative to nearby Palm Springs. Driving into Borrego Springs is an experience in itself: With its narrow switchbacks and steep drop-offs, Montezuma Valley Road is not for the faint of heart. However, the breathtaking view of the desert floor below more than makes up for the white-knuckle drive.      

Borrego Springs is surrounded by the 600,000-acre Anza-Borrego Desert State Park , the largest state park in California. During the summer months, it’s not uncommon for temperatures here to reach well over 100 degrees, so late fall to early spring is generally the best time to visit. But no matter when you go, bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

Don’t miss: Explore Anza-Borrego’s 500 miles of dirt roads and 110 miles of hiking trails, including the short but scenic Slot Canyon . Take a mini road trip through town to see the 130 large metal sculptures that make up Galleta Meadows . Grab food at Kesling’s Kitchen and then head across the street to catch a live band or karaoke at Carlee’s Place .

Stay: Book a room or RV site at the Wild West-themed Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort , or boondock in one of the state park’s many dispersed camping areas.

Charge: Charging stations in this area are very limited. Do your research and plan ahead.

4. Pauma Valley, California

Total mileage: 220 miles

Located in the foothills of Palomar Mountain, in the northeastern corner of San Diego County, Pauma Valley is the home of multiple Native American tribes, including four bands of Luiseño Indians: Pala, Pauma, La Jolla, and Rincon. The area features casinos, wineries, outdoor recreation opportunities, and more.   

In 2016, the Rincon Tribe, which owns Harrah’s Resort Southern California, partnered with a local advertising agency to rename the 40-acre casino property to Funner, California. The new city—which is all about having fun—even named David Hasselhoff as its inaugural mayor . As of May 2022, Funner’s current mayor is actor and comedian Jane Lynch. 

Don’t miss: Drive to the top of Palomar Mountain to take in the views, hike or fish in Palomar Mountain State Park , and grab lunch at Mother’s Kitchen . Float down the lazy river, play the slot machines, or sip a beer from the tribal-owned on-site brewery at Harrah’s . If you’re traveling with kids, head south to Bates Nut Farm to feed the Farm Zoo animals.  

Stay: There are plenty of casino hotels in the area, including Harrah’s, Valley View , and Pala . Camp on top of Palomar Mountain or at Woods Valley Kampground & RV Park .

Charge: Charging stations are available at the area’s casinos and in nearby Escondido. 

5. Big Bear Lake, California

Total mileage: 200 miles

In the winter, Big Bear Lake, located just 2 hours east of Los Angeles, is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. In the summer, the ski resorts transform into mountain playgrounds for hikers, bikers, golfers, and thrill-seeking families. At an elevation of 6,000 feet, the area offers a welcome respite from the city heat. 

Don’t miss: Get outside and enjoy hiking, mountain biking, ziplining, and other activities at Snow Summit , or ride the Mineshaft Coaster at Magic Mountain, then cool off with a swim in Big Bear Lake. Peruse the shops in The Village , grab some excellent Nepalese food at the Himalayan Restaurant , and taste locally brewed beers at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company .     

Stay: Stay in a haunted manor or renaissance-themed room at Castle Wood Cottages , or camp lakeside at Holloway’s Marina & RV Park . 

Charge: There are a few public charging stations in town, but don’t expect to find many DC fast chargers.

Meet the Author

Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers helps you find the most epic destinations and detours—from roadside attractions to natural wonders and beyond.

• Related Articles
• Latest Articles

5 one-tank road trips from Portland, Oregon

5 one-tank road trips from Dallas, Texas

Video: Trips on a Tankful—Creede, Colorado

The Ultimate Guide to Burning Man

How to Prepare Your RV for Playa Dust at Burning Man

Travel planning apps: Comparing options for your next adventure

Get the most inspiring stories from the road sent directly to your inbox..

• Sign up Log in Sign out
• Log in Sign out

Plan your journey, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with our app.

If you used to sign in with Roadpass, you should now use the same username and password to log in directly with Roadtrippers above.

We couldn't find an existing Roadtrippers account using that service. Please try signing in with another option.

We need your email address to send you trip itineraries and other updates.

How do you want to plan your trip?

With just a few questions, our newest Premium feature, Autopilot, will plan your next adventure.

Check out videos on hundreds of California adventures

10 Weekend Road Trips Less Than 4 Hours From Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a destination itself, but if you live there or have visited the area many times, then you should get out and explore some of the awesome adventures you can have within four hours drive from the city center. Whether it’s hiking, food, wine, or just strange attractions, here are my ten recommendations for what to do for a weekend within four hours of Los Angeles. Each suggestion below has posts I have written to help you make the most of the weekend. Be sure to let me know what you would recommend in the comments.

Solvang is a Danish town located about 30 minutes north of Santa Barbara. If you haven’t been, then you owe it to yourself to explore this quirky spot. The town is designed to look like a Danish village, complete with windmills and a giant wooden shoe. Some of the best things to do there include: feeding an ostrich, seeing mini horses, eating aebleskivers (pastry), and going to the Hans Christian Andersen Museum.

• Read all about these spots in this guide .

Channel Islands

The Channel Islands are one of the least visited national parks in the entire system, mainly because you must take a boat out to see them. If you just want to take a day trip, then head over to Anacapa and explore for a few hours. If you are looking for more of an adventure, then go to Santa Cruz for miles of hiking and a rural camping area.

• Read about the islands here .

The Salton Sea will be one of those places that probably won’t appeal to everyone, but if you can get past the smell, it is full of amazing adventures. My personal favorites are visiting Salvation Mountain, Salton Sea State Park, and of course, a stop for a banana milkshake at the International Banana Museum.

• Read about exploring the area here .

Drive Historic Route 66

While most people have been to the endpoint of Route 66, the Santa Monica Pier, they probably have not driven the other two hundred plus miles of road that is part of Route 66 in California. Some sections are better than others, and the best part is the drive from Victorville to Barstow, where you can stop at Elmer’s Bottletree Ranch, a personal favorite of mine.

• Read more about the drive here .

Mojave National Preserve

This is another remote recommendation, but one that has a lot of unique places to explore. The preserve is one of the largest in the United States, and it has an extensive collection of dunes, the densest Joshua Tree forest in California, and lava tubes for you to explore. Just make sure to bring food and gas, as you won’t find any in the park.

• Check out my guide on exploring the area here .

Pioneertown / Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is the closest national park to LA (other than the Channel Islands), and most people have probably made the trek out to see this park once. I have been a half dozen times though, and still find more things to see each time I go. Read the guide below and find more places to see in the park. Of course, while you are out there, you should take the time to explore the surrounding area as well. Some of my favorite spots are Pioneertown (be sure to eat at Pappy and Harriet’s), and the cactus mart in Joshua Tree city.

• Here is a guide on Joshua Tree and here is one on Pioneertown .

Wrightwood is a small mountain town out near the 15 freeway, and while the town itself doesn’t have much to do, the area around it is great. There is a fantastic old gold mine you can hike to in the hills above it, the Mormon rocks are about 20 minutes east, and the drive up Highway 2 to Wrightwood from LA is part of the adventure itself (just don’t go when it is closed in the winter). Also, the Pacific Crest Trail has miles of hiking that go through the area.

Here are a few spots to explore there:

• Big Horn Mine

La Jolla is my favorite city in the San Diego area as it has a lot of charm and beautiful places to adventure. I recommend you go on one of the kayak tours they have which will take you to the sea caves and even let you enter them if the weather is good. Also, during the fall, you can snorkel with the leopard sharks right in the cove. This is a great experience to have with these docile animals, and it is something you would not expect to be able to do in Southern California.

Here are a few more spots to explore in La Jolla:

• Sunny Jim Cave
• Snorkeling with sharks

San Diego / Coronado / Tijuana

Of course, no list of day trip adventures can be trusted without including San Diego, which is one of California’s best cities. If you are heading down there, I would recommend going for a hike in the Torrey Pines State Reserve, renting a bike to go around the Coronado bike path, or taking a day trip across the border into Tijuana. You can also just hang out in downtown San Diego or at one of the many beaches too, if that is your thing.

• Here is my guide to the city of San Diego .

Palm Springs

I am not a fan of lounging by the pool in the hot summer sun, but if you are, then of course, Palm Springs is your place. If you are looking for adventures, then Palm Springs is still an excellent recommendation though. You can head up the tram to some great hiking near San Jacinto or even go on a tour of Elvis’s historic honeymoon home. Add to that all the great restaurants they have, and you hold the recipe for a fun weekend.

• Read my guide on Palm Springs here .

So there you have it, my recommendations for ten great day trips from Los Angeles , be sure to let me know what I left off in the comments.

Similar Posts

Hollywood Forever Cemetery: Spots to See at the Resting Place of the Stars

Logan’s Candies: Candy Cane Making Demonstrations in Time for Christmas

5 Great Southern California Pumpkin Patches to visit near Los Angeles

Palm Springs Guide: Celebrity Homes, Museums, Shopping, Food & Hikes

Wayfarers Chapel: Glass Wedding Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes

Offroading in California: Four Areas to See

The Best 3-Day Road Trips From Los Angeles

Published April 28, 2021

// By Margherita

Who else misses road tripping? We certainly do! For all those lucky people in the US right now, here is a selection of the best 3-days road trips from Los Angeles!

One of the best things about Los Angeles is that it is so easy to take road trips from the city. So, you could spend as little as two days exploring the city , then hit the road for the adventure of a lifetime!

California is packed with National Parks, beaches, deserts, cities, and quaint towns all within a few hours drive.

You could soak up the California sun at the beach, sip wine in a vineyard, get your adrenaline going on a mountain adventure, or escape to a little town for some peace. The options are endless!

While there are many ways to road trip around California , a really cool option is to rent an RV or campervan in Los Angeles . There are plenty of campgrounds throughout California to park an RV at or car camp.

If camping isn’t your thing, enjoy a stay at a luxury resort or charming hotel. With so many options, the next question is, where should you visit first?

1) Joshua Tree National Park

Drive about 2.5 hours east of Los Angeles and you will arrive in the unique desert landscape of Joshua Tree , where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. Famous for Joshua trees, giant boulders, rugged mountains, and numerous species of cacti, this road trip is a great long weekend getaway.

There are plenty of hikes in Joshua Tree  for any skill level. For an incredible vantage point of the area, make your way up the switchbacks to Ryan Mountain . Visit Skull Rocks or Baker Dam for a more moderate stroll. To sightsee by car, drive up to Keys View for an impressive overlook of the desert landscape.

End your day setting up camp next to the famous Joshua Tree giant boulders and enjoy the views of the Milky Way throughout the night.

Reserve a campground or arrive early for a walk-up campsite. Plan your visit in the spring or fall for the most comfortable temperatures and if you love wildflowers, definitely visit Joshua Tree in the springtime!

2) Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is one of the best road trip destinations from Los Angeles. Given that it’s the hottest and driest place in the country, the summer heat is brutal meaning winter is the best time to visit .

Death Valley is the perfect spot for everyone, with the option to hike, off-road, or take a scenic drive. Adventure through canyons, giant sand dunes, badlands, and mountains. Stay on the lookout for wildlife including bighorn sheep, coyotes, jackrabbits, and desert tortoises.

Death Valley is a large park but there are some not-to-be-missed places. Don’t miss Badwater Basin , the lowest point in North America, 282 feet below sea level. Make your way up to Dante’s View to overlook sweeping views of the valley below. Trek through the Golden Canyon for a close-up experience with the unique sand and rock. End a day at Zabriskie Point for sunset.

The area is very remote so stock up on food and water  before you arrive. Check for current information about weather especially if you are considering any off-road travel.

3) Yosemite National Park

Majestic waterfalls, massive grain cliffs, and abundant wildlife are just a few reasons to take a weekend road trip to Yosemite . The glacier-formed area features impressive geological features including high mountain peaks, rounded domes, a deep U-shaped valley, alpine lakes, and more! 

Yosemite is worth visiting year-round but is most crowded during summer and reservations are currently required to visit then. To avoid the crowds check out Yosemite in the fall for gorgeous foliage , in the winter for the peaceful sites of a snow-covered valley, or in the spring to see the roaring waterfalls and rivers.

While visiting, don’t miss the most iconic viewpoint , Tunnel View , to see Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Falls all at once!

Or wind your way up to Glacier Point which sits over 3,000 feet above the valley floor where you can see about one-third of Yosemite. Bring your binoculars to El Cap meadow to look for climbers on the giant granite monolith.

Also, explore less-visited parts of Yosemite . Drive up to the high country along Tioga Pass . This is the least visited part of Yosemite, but the dramatic features should not be missed. However, don’t forget Tioga Pass is inaccessible in winter, and only opens in lake May/June. 

4) Sequoia National Park

Head to the Land of the Giants to walk amongst the largest trees in the world. Sequoia National Park is most famously known for its massive groves of old-growth Sequoias, but it’s also home to a diverse varying environment – including deep canyons, rolling foothills, marble caves, and majestic mountains.

One of them is the 14,500 foot Mount Whitney – the highest point in the Lower 48 states.

Sequoia is enjoyable year-round with the option to hike, drive, climb, horseback ride, snowshoe, or ski, there are activities for every type of adventurer . Make sure you visit General Sherman , the largest Sequoia in the world, and hike out to Moro Rock for spectacular views of the granite landscape. If you want to drive more, there are plenty of viewpoints to enjoy from your car.

Any season you visit is a magical experience but Sequoia is most crowded during the summer. Fall and Spring bring more moderate temperatures. While winter snows close some roads, the tranquil landscape is still worth the visit. 

5) Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is home to picturesque beaches with dramatic mountains in the distance. It’s only a two-hour drive north of Los Angeles and is well known for its wine, street fairs, golf courses, upscale restaurants and boutiques, and historical Spanish Mission churches.

Make a day trip to the Santa Ynez Valley wineries and tasting rooms for some of the best wines in the region .

Then stop by the nearby town Solvang to visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, author of many famous children’s books including The Ugly Duckling , The Little Mermaid , and The Emperor’s New Clothes .

If you enjoy the outdoors, r ent kayaks to explore the coastal waters or rent bicycles and pedal along the ocean. The city offers plenty of options whatever your interests may be.

6) Palm Springs

This California city in the Sonoran Desert is well known for its luxury hotels, spas, golf courses, public art, and hot springs. Palm Springs is also a popular food and shopping destination filled with fine restaurants and vintage boutiques. You’ll find a way to stay entertained in Palm Springs as it is one of the best close weekend escapes from LA.

There are some quirky ways your can spend your time around Palm Springs. Stop by the International Banana Museum which holds the Guinness World Record as the largest collection of banana memorabilia. Head to one of the nearby ghost towns to fall back in time and learn about the California Gold Rush. For outdoor lovers, make your way to nearby Joshua Tree National Park.

Or relax under the sun at one of the many pools or golf courses. With the close distance from LA, and as a city with plenty to do, Palm Springs is an easy choice for one of the best three-day road trips from Los Angeles. 

7) Big Bear Lake

A drive to Big Bear Lake is another one of the best road trips in California . It’s located in the San Bernardino Mountains, about 2.5 hours from Los Angeles.

With over 100 miles of trails and 22 miles of shoreline, summer is a great time to visit. Go hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, or swimming. Make a trip in the winter to ski and snowboard over 1000 acres at Bear Mountain or Big Bear Mountain Resort. There are plenty of gear shops to rent equipment for all seasonal activities.

Big Bear Lake is probably the closest pine forest to Los Angeles and is a place you should definitely check out!

8) Orange County Beaches

While it’s possible to make a day trip from Los Angeles to one of the nearby sand beaches, avoid LA traffic, and stay for a weekend!

Huntington Beach is the perfect beach for families with kids. The beach is about 2 miles long and great for surfing, swimming, fishing, long walks, and volleyball. Don’t miss the Huntington Beach Pier, fire-rings for bonfires, and baseball courts located near the beach.

Laguna Beach is well known for its art galleries, beaches, and coves. It’s also known for its extensive trail system along the water with hiking, running, and biking opportunities.

Visit Heisler Park for tidepools and sculptures or check out Victoria Beach for white sand and the Pirate Tower. Laguna Beach also has surfing, summer art festivals, and a great overall atmosphere.

These California Beaches are cleaner and safer than LA’s nearby Long Beach, making them an easy choice for weekend road trips!

9) Pacific Coast Highway

The drive along the famous Highway 1 is one of the best road trips from Los Angeles. Stop in at one of the many beach towns along the coast or enjoy the views from some of the gorgeous overlooks.

If you drive far enough north stop at Carmel-by-the-Sea , a cute town for shopping and dining along the coast. The town of Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its historic buildings of the Carmel Missions and its fairytale-like cottages and galleries.

As you pass through Santa Barbara stop at one of the many golf courses. Continuing North, bring your camera to snap some shots of the Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls in Big Sur. Head to a nature preserve for a chance to see marine wildlife.

It is easy to turn this road trip into a camping trip because of the numerous campgrounds along Highway 1.

10) San Francisco

Continue your trip up the Pacific Coast Highway all the way to San Francisco. As the fourth largest city in California , San Francisco offers many things to do for any type of traveller.

Head to Fisherman’s Wharf to shop, dine, and see the famous sea lions at Pier 39. Stop by Boudin bakery for a taste of San Francisco’s renowned sourdough bread. Take the ferry to Alcatraz to see the historic federal prison . Spend a day at Golden Gate Park to visit museums, look for bison, or enjoy the botanical gardens. End your day at Ocean Beach on the west end of the park.

Drive across the famous Golden Gate Bridge to explore the Marin Headlands where you’ll get some of the best views of the bay. While in the North Bay, reserve a parking spot at Muir Woods National Monument to see the giant Redwood trees.

There are more than enough ways to stay occupied in this California city but be sure to pack a jacket and layers because temperatures are much cooler up here compared to LA!

11) San Diego

70 miles of coastal beaches, stunning parks, and a warm, Mediterranean climate year-round all contribute to the charming city that is San Diego . Only about two hours south of Los Angeles this city is perfect for many types of weekend getaways.

Enjoy the Pacific Ocean views at Torrey Pines State National Reserve. Look for marine wildlife at the La Jolla Cove tidepools. Head to Pacific Beach for cool vibes.

Explore the city’s downtown and grab a coffee at a local cafe or stop by Balboa Park. Pop in at some of over 150 breweries in San Diego for some tasty craft beer. Take the kids to the historic beachfront amusement park, Belmont Park. There are so many ways to enjoy your time in San Diego!  

Also, nearby to San Diego is Anza Borrego State Park , part of the Sonoran Desert, which has unique land formations, amazing stargazing, hiking, washes, and more. It’s a great stop to add to your San Diego road trip if you enjoy the desert.

12) Catalina Island

Take a ferry over to Catalina Island for one of the more unique road trips from Los Angeles. Catalina Island is one of the Channel Islands and is only 22 miles long by 8 miles across, but it home to stunning beaches, land and sea activities, and fine hotels and dining.

While most of the island is undeveloped, there are two ‘cities’, where day trip adventures are operated from – the evocatively-named Two Harbors and Avalon.

Spend your day hiking the Trans Catalina Trail, ziplining over the forest, or join a fishing or kayaking tour. End your day at one of many restaurants in town. The natural beauty of the island with modern comforts makes it perfect for a weekend, and a fantastic destination for a road trip from Los Angeles!

Road is Calling

6 Amazingly Unique Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles to Make You Wonder

There is no shortage of things in Southern California you can do in your spare time. Much has been already said about various gorgeous hikes, road trips, and attractions. But I don’t think it is ever enough. In this post, I would love to share a few interesting ideas for weekend getaways from Los Angeles that will ignite your wanderlust and make you wonder.

Mark and I had been living in the city of angels for about 3.5 years, drove everywhere we could, and explored as much as we were allowed. There is definitely a lot to see in the LA area.

Some of the most popular road trips from Los Angeles are trips to Palm Springs , LA to Las Vegas drive , a trip to Santa Barbara, Ojai, Ventura, and even Big Sur . I am not going to mention those places today. Instead, I’ll present a list of a bit shorter getaways from Los Angeles to help you look at this city and the surrounding area from a different angle.

Psst: Are you looking for more getaways in America? Then check some of our other posts:

• 9 Incredible Weekend Trips in Kentucky 
• 6 Unique Places to Visit in the US That Will Blow Your Mind
• Weekend Getaways and Road Tripping in Vermont 
• Guide to the Columbia River Gorge Road Trip 

This post contains affiliate links, which means we earn a commission (for which we will be mega grateful) at no extra cost to you. 

Awesome Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles to Make You Wonder

1. weekend trip from la to oak glen.

Oak Glen definitely deserves the title of one of the most picturesque towns in Southern California. But not many visitors and even residents of Los Angeles come up to this area. Oak Glen is settled at the footprint of San Bernardino National Forest right in the Apple Valley. What it means is that this region sees cooler temperatures year-round.

So, if you feel like the crazy heat is scorching Los Angeles, come to cool down in Oak Glen. Summers here are very pleasant. Foliage season usually goes all the way into December and winter months bring enough snow to have a winter wonderland .

We’ve been here in the fall and it felt absolutely magical. In LA it was still hot but Oak Glen had a gorgeous fall season in full swing.

At some point, it felt like we were somewhere in New England  and at the same time in one of the states in the South.

Things to do here: it really depends on the season when you are coming in. The area is famous for apple orchards (yes to apple pies and cider in the fall,) farms , ranches , country music , old-fashioned activities, and more. Berry picking is possible in the spring, apple, and pumpkin picking in the fall.

Oak Glen is actually a village that is five miles long but you’ll want to spend an entire day (possibly even more) enjoying the tranquility of this place. Come with children or on your own, there is something to do in Oak Glen for everyone!

How far from LA: 80 miles 129 km. It takes only one and a half hours to get here but it really depends on where you stay in Los Angeles and traffic. May take more, may take less.

Where to stay:  We personally have never been staying here overnight. But if you prefer to spend a weekend in the countryside, I recommend looking into nearby Highland Springs Ranch & Inn (a quiet lavender farm.)

There is also an RV park, camping sites, and even some accommodation through Airbnb . A trip to Oak Glen is one of those short trips from LA that lets you see enough for one long day, but if you desire to make it longer, accommodation is available as well.

2. Day Trip From Los Angeles to Lake Arrowhead

You’ve probably heard about Big Bear Lake – the largest recreation lake in Southern California. A lot of people love coming there for a weekend.

I suggest you check out Lake Arrowhead – a reservoir in San Bernardino National Forest. It reminds of Big Bear Lake but on a smaller scale. For years this area has been alluring nature lovers to its vastness. If you are visiting Los Angeles and looking to get out of the city, come to Lake Arrowhead for rest and relaxation. Peacefulness is guaranteed!

Things to do here:  Lake Arrowhead provides access to countless activities such as swimming, fishing, hiking, boating, kayaking, biking, and more. The village doesn’t have any snow summit for skiing but nearby snow valley is just 20 minutes away (if you are visiting in winter.) Big Bear Lake recreation area is 45 minutes away.

You can go to Strawberry Peak – a prominent peak in the local mountains – to hike. It is a short drive from Lake Arrowhead offering excellent hiking trails and outstanding views of Los Angeles and even the Pacific Ocean (on a good day!)

Also, there is a very pretty small town Crestline with its own tiny Lake Gregory . We’ve been there too and thought it was spectacular.

How far from LA: 80 miles (129 km.) Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from downtown LA if there is no traffic.

Where to stay:  There are plenty of options to choose from. The Saddleback Inn is probably the most popular one. Take a look at more choices of  accommodation here .

Check prices and availability for The Saddleback Inn on Hotels.com

3. Weekend Getaway From Los Angeles to Riverside

One of the weekend getaways from Los Angeles includes a trip to Riverside. This town is not really a noteworthy one that deserves much attention. But it is home to an incredibly magical hotel, the Mission Inn hotel, and spa , which introduces guests to history in some fancy way.

If you are looking to spend your weekend in seclusion, away from hustle and bustle, but at the same time in luxury and comfort, and don’t feel like driving all the way to Palm Springs then Riverside is the right place for you. Many publications mention this town as one of the best Southern California getaways for couples.

Once you walk through hotel grounds you’ll get an impression of being somewhere in Europe. The property reminds more of a monastery than a hotel. No wonder its name is The Mission Inn. The hotel looks especially magnificent and grand during the time of winter holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas when it’s featuring the largest holiday light collection  in the U.S.

Things to do here: Regardless of whether you stay overnight or not you could visit a hotel’s museum dedicated to art and Mission Inn’s history . Pay a visit to their  spa , relax in a beautiful garden , dine in an upscale restaurant, and just walk through hotel grounds.

If you feel like stretching your bones, check out the nearby Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park which has hiking trails and is another place for a weekend trip in Southern California.

How far from LA:  60 miles (96 km) away from LA. 

Where to stay:   In the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa . If accommodation here is a bit pricey, there are many other options in the area . Riverside is very close to LA, so you could come and visit just during the day. But staying here overnight will definitely transport you to the ancient era.

Check prices and availability for The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa on Hotels.com

4. Trip to the Salton Sea

Do you know which lake is the largest in California? Salton Sea Lake. Unfortunately, it is not a natural lake. The Salton Sea was accidentally created by engineers when they wanted to increase the flow of water into the area for farming. Later on, it was transformed into a holiday spot where wealthy people loved to vacation. But with time the lake got a series of problems and turned into a public health disaster.

No, you won’t get sick and nothing will happen to your health if you visit. Residents who live in a county suffer from lung-related illnesses because they are breathing the toxic dust coming out from the water on a regular basis. You will be totally fine if go just on an excursion.

I actually encourage you to come and see with your own eyes how once a bustling resort area looks like today. I am not saying you should be hanging out at the Salton Lake all day long. There are other cool activities to do nearby. But come to visit for an experience.

Things to do here: Park anywhere you feel like it (parking is ample) walk on what used to be called a “beach,” take some photos and see the ghost town.

Check nearby North Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area ,  Salvation mountain , and International Banana Museum   (so many banana items in one place, unbelievable!)

For a more detailed guide on things to do in the Salton Sea , check this guide.

Once you are at the lake, you’ll be smelling something like rotten eggs. That smell is a gas – hydrogen sulfide – naturally occurring in the sea. But don’t fret, you will be totally fine.

How far from LA:  160 miles (257 km) away from Los Angeles. On a good day, it would take between 2.5-3 hours to drive here.

Where to stay:  The drive is long, so you probably want to stay overnight somewhere in the area. The closest place with nice accommodation would be in nearby Palm Springs. We stayed at this cute but affordable Residence Inn . It doesn’t make much sense to sleep over anywhere near the Salton Sea. If you decide to stay overnight, the following day you can go on a trip to Joshua Tree National Park .

Check prices and availability for Residence Inn By Marriott on Hotels.com

RELATED POST:  7 BREATHTAKING DESTINATIONS IN THE UNITED STATES TO SEE WINTER IN SUMMER

5. One Or Two Day Trip to Lake Isabella

Are you looking for a nature trip near Los Angeles? This one to Lake Isabella is just what you need, especially if you like to camp. There are a few camping grounds which don’t see many people. But even without camping, going to Lake Isabella is a nice short trip great for couples and families.

You know about Sequoia National Park, don’t you? Before you get there, give this lake a look-see. It will surely surprise you.

Lake Isabella is one of the largest reservoirs in California and much of the wilderness surrounding it is part of Sequoia National Forest. So, besides all possible water sports and recreation activities, you have access to camping, picnicking, multiple hiking trails, and even hunting. The views are stunning and the weather is always pleasant.

We’ve been to this Lake twice and haven’t explored everything we wanted. There was just so much to do in that area!

Things to do here: Go sunbathing, swimming, fishing, canoeing, and whitewater rafting . Camp or walk near the Auxiliary Dam, Old Isabella Road, or South Fork Recreation Area. Hike and hike some more. And! Visit an old Silver City Ghost Town from the early days along with Miracle Hot Springs  in Bodfish.

How far from LA:  160 miles away from the city center. It may take up to 3 hours of driving, so you probably want to stay overnight to get the best out of your trip. We did it once as a day trip when left the house at 7 am and got back around 10 in the evening. It was intense but we enjoyed it.

Where to stay:  Our favorite hotel is The Kern Lodge . It has very stylish and clean rooms, comfortable beds, pool on the property, and excellent location. In our opinion, this is the best hotel when it comes to the price-quality ratio. There is also amazingly lovely B&B Kern River Inn . It wasn’t available when we were making bookings but it looked gorgeous and reviews were superb.

If you are looking for something cheaper, we recommend Lakeview Motel (this is where we stayed once and were happy with this property,) but honestly, there are plenty of other options to choose from. Take a look and decide what suits your budget and preferences better.

Check prices and availability for:

• The Kern Lodge on Hotels.com
• B&B Kern River Inn on Orbitz.com
• Lakeview Motel on Expedia.com

6. Weekend Trip From Los Angeles to Rancho Palos Verdes

If you are looking for a really short getaway from Los Angeles, I can highly recommend a mini road trip to Rancho Palos Verdes which reminded me so much about the Northern coast of Spain .

Not sure how many times we went there during our time in LA but it was never enough.

Palos Verdes Peninsula in the Southern part of LA is all about dramatic views, lighthouses, gorgeous chapels, and white houses with red roofs that are scattered on green hills along the coast. Once you find yourself on Palos Verdes Drive, it becomes difficult to concentrate on the road. The surrounding beauty keeps distracting more and more.

Things to do here: Before you start a scenic drive through Palos Verdes Peninsula, stop for a cup of coffee, sandwich or pastry at a super cute cafe Yellow Vase . From there go to Malaga Hills (which is less than 10 minutes walk) for a quick hike. Views you get from a hiking trail in Malaga Hills are breathtaking and there are always fewer people.

Visit Point Vicente Lighthouse, Pelican Cove Park, Wayfarers Chapel and enjoy the view from nearby Portuguese and Inspiration Points.

If you stop at Rocky Point, you can see the small beach town of Redondo Beach. If you walk a bit more down, there is a SS Dominator Shipwreck .

At the end of this scenic drive, definitely pay a visit to Korean Friendship Bell , Fermin Park, and if there is still time left, to Cabrillo Beach .

How far from LA: Depends on where the starting point is. But it should take less than one hour to get to Yellow Vase cafe from downtown LA.

Did you go on any weekend trips from Los Angeles? Maybe some destinations that are closer to the city like Solvang, Ventura, or Santa Clarita? If yes, share a few words about your experience. Would you also add any other getaways to this list? 

Don’t forget to pin it!

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

Similar Posts

6 Most Magical Lakes in Vermont For Kayaking, Canoeing & Swimming

Lately, Vermont has been on my mind a lot. I was going through our old photos and found a bunch of pictures from those times when we went on a few road trips in…

27 Coziest Winter Vacations in the US for All Tastes & Budgets

Winter is one of the best seasons to travel in the US. Well, seriously. Crowds are usually thinner, prices are many times lower, road trips take on a whole new atmosphere, and there is…

Weekend in Portland, Oregon – My Perfect 2 to 4 Days in Portland Itinerary

It took me almost two and a half years to write my version of the Portland itinerary. Not that I have been writing it for two years, no. But only two and half years…

Our Life in Los Angeles Over Three Years: Why It Never Felt Like Home

Ahh Los Angeles, a city of dreams, sun, surf, sand, and.. Hollywood. The largest city in California and the second-largest urban area in the United States remains a destination for many people from around…

Airbnb Kentucky: My Favorite 16 Beautiful Short-Term Rentals For a Romantic Getaway

From romantic homes to stay in Lexington or Bardstown, to treehouses and lakefront cabins in remote areas, each airbnb in Kentucky on this list combines the comforts of home with fresh air, fantastic views…

8 Best Stops on the Los Angeles to Palm Springs Drive

If you are planning a Los Angeles to Palm Springs drive and wondering if there is anything to see along the way, here is my post for you! We have been asking just the…

20 Comments

Your photos are really amazing! I am especially in awe of the lighting in those first few! While I’ve read a lot about Salvation Mountain, I haven’t actually visited. What a quirky roadside attraction that appears to be!

Thank you, Sage, for your kind words!

We’re headed to LA next month. Sounds like there’s a ton of places within a few hours drive that look really interesting.

There is plenty to choose from, for sure! Enjoy your trip, guys!

Ok so this is obvious but I am so jealous of all of the variety that California has to offer! I have been to the Salton Sea area but I am dying to go back and visit more of these places. That lookout is STUNNING!

During our 3.5 years in California, we haven’t even visited everything we planned to. This state has so much to offer, that’s true!

Arrowhead looks so beautiful! Would love to take a trip. Would definitely also try to get to Strawberry peak

It was beautiful indeed. We know for sure, if you ever visit, you’ll definitely love it, Hayley!

We Keep thnking of visiting the West Coast and never did California sides yet. The strawberry peak lookout looked stunning!

California is amazing, you’ll love it!

Great photos. So nice to read a post about the lesser known destinations from LA, I haven’t heard of any of these places but they look amazing. Oak Glen sounds particularly lovely. Thanks for the great suggestions!

Thank you, Sarah, for stopping by!

What a great post! It is full of lots of good ideas to help you forget the hustle and bustle of LA living.

These places were truly helping us to recharge and as you say to escape the hustle and bustle of busy LA. Thank you for your comment, Sarah!

Love your pictures! Unfortunately, I´ve never been to LA, so I guess it´s time to putit on my list. Surroundings too. 🙂

Thanks, Unta! Not sure if LA is worth a visit but outside the city is really gorgeous!

I’ve been to LA once and didn’t like it all, but these day trips look so lovely! Especially Oak Glen. I’ll have to give the area another try some day!

We didn’t like LA too, so can totally relate to this one, but the nearby nature was pretty!

The view from Strawberry Peak Lookout is what dreams are made of <3 WOW!

Wow. This is a pretty great list. Your photos look awesome, too. I’ll be adding these getaways on my next travels this year.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

14 Unique Stops To Make On A Road Trip From LA To San Diego

• Experience the unique beauty and wildlife of Santa Catalina Island on a road trip from LA to San Diego. Take a ferry to the island and explore Two Harbors and Avalon, complete with palm trees, cabanas, and art deco Catalina Casino.
• Enjoy the surf and vibrant beach town vibes at Huntington Beach, also known as "Surf City." Take a surf lesson or explore lively Main Street with its bars, breweries, shops, and cafes.
• Explore the scenic beaches and artistic charm of Laguna Beach. From tide pools at Main Beach to hiking trails in the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, this stop offers breathtaking coastal vistas and a chance to see a natural lake.

Driving the California coast is a quintessential American road trip and is something that everyone should experience at some point in their lifetime! Whether driving the whole coastline or just a section, there are so many beautiful places to stop along the way. California has great scenic road trip options with fantastic stops along the way , and the drive from LA to San Diego is no less.

The drive on a road trip from LA to San Diego is only about 120 miles (roughly 2 hours of driving point to point without traffic). But the best parts of any road trip are the stops along the way, and with multiple beaches and dozens of things to do between LA and San Diego, the California coast will not disappoint.

Although the quickest way between these two cities is to take the I-5, the most scenic option is to take the Pacific Coast Highway or Highway 1. This drive is one of the most beautiful in the US, and it becomes even more so if you genuinely know where to stop between San Diego and Los Angeles to enjoy this route.

UPDATE: 2023/11/13 16:42 EST BY SUNIL PURUSHE

Some More Unique Stops Along PCH In Los Angeles And San Diego, California

The route between LA and San Diego and the legendary Pacific Coast Highway has unlimited destinations and attractions that demand attention. There's only one Golden State for a reason, regardless of the time of year. Have fun!

Related: How To Spend 3 Days In LA

Escape To Santa Catalina Island

Two harbors and the city of avalon, with casinos, hiking trails, and wildlife..

For those with plenty of time to enjoy the California coastline, leaving the car behind in Long Beach and catching a ferry over to Santa Catalina Island is an excellent place to start. Among the many things to do between San Diego and Los Angeles, visiting the Santa Catalina Islands is a unique but very fulfilling choice. Just one hour away via high-speed ferry, Santa Catalina is one of California's Channel Islands and lies southwest of LA. The resort town of Two Harbors is on the north of the island, and the city of Avalon is in the south, complete with palm trees, cabanas, and art deco Catalina Casino. There are hiking trails across the island, and it's known for its wildlife and amazing diving opportunities, making it the perfect first stop on any LA to San Diego road trip.

• Location: Santa Catalina Islands, California 90704
• Major Attractions: Catalina Island Casino , Two Harbors

Enjoy The Longest Pier At Huntington Beach

The best place to learn surfing.

On a drive from LA to San Diego, just 20 minutes further down the coast from Long Beach and about as far north as you can get in Orange Country, is beautiful Huntington Beach. With one of the longest piers on the California Coast, it is the perfect place to catch a West Coast sunset. Known locally as "Surf City," the beach is a perfect place to take a surf lesson, or lively Main Street has many bars, breweries, shops, and cafes to enjoy.

• Location: Huntington Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Huntington Beach Pier , Old World Village

The World Famous And Stunning Laguna Beach

Over 40 miles of trails, spectacular coastal vistas, canyons, and lake barbara..

With some of the most stunning beaches and coastlines along this coastline, Laguna Beach is a must-see beach on any San Diego to LA road trip or the opposite direction along the California Coast. Another significant aspect of Laguna Beach is that it falls in the middle of a route perfect for any California road trip . The town is an eclectic mix of a hippie beach town, boutique shopping, and art galleries. Main Beach has tide pools to explore and a beautiful boardwalk leading to the paths and gardens of nearby Heisler Park. The Laguna Coast Wilderness Park has over 40 miles of trails leading to rocky bluffs, coastal vistas, and canyons. Hiking to Barbara's Lake is a unique opportunity to see a natural lake along this coastal drive.

• Location: Laguna Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Heisler Park , Pacific Marine Mammal Center

Related: From Surf To Turf: A Culinary Adventure Through San Diego's Diverse Food Culture

Looking Out For Whales At Dana Point

A beautiful harbor and tours to watch the biggest mammal family on earth..

Dana Point is known as the "Whale Capital of the West," so watch for these majestic animals, whether watching from the harbor or heading further out to sea on a whale-watching tour. The 0.2-mile Bluff Top hiking trail gives visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the harbor, and the harbor itself has many boutique stores, restaurants, and cafés to enjoy a rest after whale-spotting!

• Location: Dana Point, California
• Major Attractions: Dana Point Harbor , Salt Creek Beach

Learning Some History In San Juan Capistrano

Spanish-style architecture and antique stores, along with seeing the oldest buildings in the state..

A visit to San Juan Capistrano involves a little inland detour, but it is one of the most historic destinations in the region, and it's a nice way to break up the beach stops along this coastal drive. Downtown is filled with Spanish-style architecture and antique stores, and one of the highlights is seeing the San Juan Capistrano Mission, one of the oldest buildings in the state. For those staying overnight here, there are plenty of taquerias and old-timey Western bars to enjoy.

• Location: San Juan Capistrano, California
• Major Attractions: Mission San Juan Capistrano , Zoomars at River Street Ranch

Visiting The Wine Country In Temecula

See beautiful hillside golf courses and vineyards..

Further inland still is the Southern California city of Temecula. It's famous for the nearby Temecula Valley Wine Country, with stunning hillside vineyards and abundant golf courses. Another beautiful historic town, Temecula, is filled with 1800s buildings and antique stores, making it a unique stop along the way between LA and San Diego.

• Location: Temecula, California
• Major Attractions: Old Town Temecula , Wilson Creek Winery

Related: Less Touristy (But Still Fun!) Things To Do In San Diego

Surfing At San Clemente State Beach

Windy, wavy, and perfect for water sports..

San Clemente is a quirky surf town and is the southernmost town in Orange County. It is often windy and wavy, making it the perfect place to try out some water sports, and there are surfing spots here suitable for beginners right up to professionals, making it one of the best surf spots along the California coast. Another unique thing about San Clemente Beach is that visitors can camp right on the mile-long beach !

• Location: San Clemente, CA 92672
• Major Attractions: San Clemente Pier , San Clemente Coastal Trail

Stop By The Beach At Oceanside and Visit LEGOLAND In Carlsbad

Home to the longest wooden pier and a chance to be a child again..

Oceanside has over 6 miles of breathtaking beaches, making it one of the best beach-side destinations along this coastline. It is also home to the longest wooden pier on the California coast - roughly 1/3 mile long! The views along the Oceanside coast are truly spectacular, and it is worth taking some time here to soak them up!

A short drive from Oceanside is the small town of Carlsbad, which is often top of tourist's to-see lists because of its many big attractions, including the LEGOLAND California Resort and the impressive Sea Life Aquarium.

• Location: Oceanside , Carlsbad
• Drive: Oceanside to Carlsbad (3.3 miles - 8 minutes)
• Major Attractions: Oceanside Pier , Mission San Luis Rey , LEGOLAND California , Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum (MECM)

Take In The Quaint Seaside Charm Of Encinitas

Enjoy a unique botanical garden and the small-town vibe..

Another stop with unbeatable coastal views is the beautiful Encinitas. This small city is just a little south of Carlsbad, and the streets are packed with quirky stores and relaxed restaurants. It is also home to the San Diego Botanical Garden, filled with various plant species from around the world. For visitors looking for a mellow town with seaside charm, this is the perfect place to stop.

• Location: Encinitas, California
• Major Attractions: Moonlight State Beach , Self Realization Fellowship Hermitage & Meditation Gardens

The Calmness Of A Sanctuary At Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve

Witness the unique torrey pine and several migratory birds..

Although technically within San Diego city limits, the Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve is one of the wildest lands found along the Southern California coastline . Here, visitors will find the rare Torrey pine along with a beautiful lagoon, which is still used by several migrating bird species. With deep sandstone canyons and miles of pristine beaches, this is the perfect last stop before hitting San Diego!

• Location: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
• Major Attractions: Razor Point and Beach Trail Loop , La Jolla Cove

Summer Entertainment At Newport Beach

A beachside destination boasts entertainment, food, and history..

Newport Beach town will be reached on a road trip from LA to San Diego after driving along Highway 1 to the south from Huntington. This iconic town is known as an amazing summer destination and boasts various types of activities for everyone to enjoy. People visiting Newport Beach are recommended to see the Fun Zone and Balboa Pier, where they will witness an amazing seaside amusement park with arcade games, a small Ferris wheel, and traditional carnival food. Multi-million dollar homes and iconic boutiques can be spotted on Balboa Island. The latter can be reached from Balboa Pier in five minutes in a small car ferry.

• Location: Newport Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Balboa Island Ferry , Newport Beach

Finding Solitude At Table Rock Beach

Not the easiest to reach, but it's well worth the effort..

People who want to enjoy stunning seaside scenery with fewer tourist crowds will stop at Table Rock Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Orange County. This spot can be located in South Laguna just off of the Pacific Coast Highway, north of Mission Hospital. Although people will have to walk down several stairs to reach the beach, it's still worth witnessing this unique area. The wonderful surf, beautiful rock formations, and solitude Table Rock Beach offers are all worth heading to this difficult-to-reach stop along the road trip from LA to San Diego.

• Location: 31561 Table Rock Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
• Major Attractions: Table Rock Beach , Laguna Beach Open Ocean Kayaking Tour with Sea Lion Sightings (Nearby)

Party At The Pacific Beach

Beachfront entertainment and the beautiful californian sunset..

The beachside neighborhood of Pacific Beach near San Diego is known as a party playground or P.B. (as the locals call it). P.B. comes alive at night with the glow of bonfires and the electricity of the region's many clubs. However, with endless stretches of coast, it's also the perfect downtime spot for families. P.B., or Pacific Beach, is also one of California's best beaches in and near San Diego . It has a 3.2-mile-long boardwalk lined with beachfront bars, restaurants, and shops, which is also a great vantage point to watch the beautiful Californian sunset every night. San Diego is known for its beaches and delicious cuisines , and it can all start here at Pacific Beach.

• Location: Pacific Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Mission Bay Park , San Diego Zoo

Lifeguard stands are staffed year-round from North Pacific Beach down to Mission Beach. The main lifeguard tower is located at the end of Grand Avenue.

Make A Stop At Santa Ana, The Face Of A New California.

Be surprised by the art, culture, and attractions found in historic santa ana..

The New York Times has characterized approximately four-fifths Latino, Santa Ana, as the "face of a new California , a state where Latinos have more influence in everyday life." Santa Ana is a cultural, entertainment, and culinary center of large and diverse Orange County, rich in authentic heritage and can't-miss gems. Art is everywhere in Santa Ana, from local galleries and studios to museums and alleyways. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the French Park neighborhood adjacent to downtown consists of 20 square blocks lined with stately homes from the 1880s.

• Location: Santa Ana, California
• Major Attractions: Lyon Air Museum , Blinking Owl Distillery

• Skip to content
• Skip to primary sidebar

This Rare Earth

A travel resource for the adventurous and often-solo female

Spring Break Road Trips From Los Angeles

Blog , California , North America , USA / March 4, 2021 by Monica / Leave a Comment

Even if you’re not able to fly to exotic lands (or foot the bill!), the areas surrounding Los Angeles offer some of the most scenic and beautiful Spring Break road trips you could ever imagine. From pool parties to deserts to mountains, there is something that everyone can enjoy. Whether you are a SoCal native or just happen to be out west for school, here are some of the best road trip ideas from Los Angeles for your Spring Break!

Pin Me for Later!

Table of Contents

The 5 Best Los Angeles Spring Break Road Trips

Oh, the good old fashioned road trip. If you’ve been around for a while, you know that road trips are one of my favorite ways to get around the good old USA. Long stretches of scenic vistas with either good friends, good conversation, or a good podcast can truly be a transformative experience.

While I’ve personally driven across the country nine times (yes, you read that correctly!), this post will focus specifically on Los Angeles’ surrounding areas and trips that you can enjoy in just one week.

First and foremost, if this will be your first road trip (or if you just need a refresher), I highly recommend checking out my post on How To Plan a Roadtrip Alone . Even if you’re not actually going alone, this post holds ALL of the valuable info you’ll need to have a safe and enjoyable trip on the road!

So let’s get to it.

1) A One Week Road Trip Through the Mojave Desert

If you have any interest in the great outdoors, not to mention some of the most unbelievable landscapes you can imagine, than this trip is for you.

Easily my favorite of all Los Angeles Spring Break road trips, the Mojave Desert will not disappoint. For this trip, you will see three of the amazing desert parks of Southern California ; the Mojave National Preserve, Joshua Tree National Park, and Anza Borrego Desert State Park.

I would suggest planning for two days within each park, which leaves you an extra day for added stops or off-route plans. Camping is typically available in each of these parks, but some may require reservations. I have each park’s camping guidelines linked as well as a customizable map below.

Mojave National Preserve

First, drive north to the Mojave National Preserve . Depending on your exact starting point, this will take around two and a half hours.

The park covers a hefty 1.6 million acres of the desert, so you can easily spend two days exploring!

I highly recommend climbing the soft sand of the Kelso Dunes and exploring the underground tunnels in the Lava Tube. Visiting in the spring time means that the hiking weather should be pleasant, though leaving early in the morning is ideal.

The Mojave National Preserve does allow camping. Details can be accessed here . If camping is not your style, there are a number of affordable AirBnb ‘s in the area.

This large park doesn’t receive the credit it deserves, so have fun exploring! There are loads of hikes available; details can be found here .

Joshua Tree National Park

You’ve probably already heard of Joshua Tree National Park, and for good reason. This park is incredible. Sweeping views of the famous Joshua Trees stretch for miles. Giant rocks rise up out of the earth. Cholla cacti await their next victims.

You can easily spend more than two days here, so if you have time to spare, this might just be the place to do it. At the very least, begin your three hour drive from Mojave National Land Preserve early to make the most of your time.

Joshua Tree National Park encompasses both the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert, meaning that you can see two vastly different landscapes depending if you are north or south in the park. Both are well worth a visit.

The north is where most of the hiking and camping lie, as well as picnic areas and rock climbing. The south is where the cactus gardens and untamed land lie, and is one of the best stops for sunset in the park.

I could actually go on and on about Joshua Tree, since it’s one of my favorite places in the world, but – I already have. Check out my post on spending the perfect day in Joshua Tree here for my favorite hikes, sunrise spots , and photo ops.

Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Day five and six of your desert road trip can be spent at Anza Borrego, a beautiful park and an easy trip from San Diego . It will take roughly one and a half hours to reach the park entrance from Joshua Tree.

You would think that after four days in the desert, it would all start to look the same. But, Anza Borrego is another incredibly unique spot that is worth the visit.

The mountains are one of the most breathtaking elements of the park. Incredible geological formations came about after a litany of earthquakes, erosion, and floods, and it is a sight to see. The scenery found on any of the hikes will not disappoint you!

My favorite hike is known as The Slot . Hands down, you need to hike this narrow canyon, and see it for yourself.

Much of the park is inaccessible to visitors unless on a specified Jeep park tour. If financially possible, this is a great tour to take. Anza Borrego is also a designated International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the most spectacular nighttime views of the stars.

Camping is free and information can be found here . From this park, the final leg home will take just under three hours.

Last Day Tip: If you need a break from the desert, check out the nearby Borrego Springs area.

Hopefully you’ll find these days connecting with the desert as awe-inspiring as I do! If not, maybe trip #2 is for you.

2) Drive Into Nevada – Offering So Much More Than Gambling!

Probably surprising myself most of all, Nevada has become one of my favorite stops in the Southwest. Seriously. While I personally don’t enjoy gambling, I wasn’t quite prepared to fall in love with the outdoor hikes and parks like I did!

I know what I just said. Gambling is not for me. But, if you do enjoy it, or if you just want to see what the Las Vegas hype is about, don’t worry. This Los Angeles Spring Break road trip drives straight into Las Vegas, NV. And, there are plenty of odd and interesting stops along the way .

Las Vegas, Nevada

About four hours outside of Los Angeles, Sin City has enough of a reputation that I probably don’t need to describe it to you. But just in case, here we go. Yes, the bright lights and loud ringing of casino games can be found here. Yes, fancy drinks and buffets are also well-known.

But Las Vegas does host incredible stage performances. As an aerialist myself, I always appreciate the Cirque du Soleil performances offered on the Strip. Dance shows, popular singers, magicians, and anything you can imagine has been hosted here.

So yes – eat up the nightlife if you need to. But I want to tell you about two must-visit parks in Nevada.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

First, very close to the Las Vegas Strip, is Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. This is a beautiful one day stop that sits approximately 25 miles outside of Las Vegas.

Red Rock Canyon offers a stunning 13 mile drive that is worth the visit even if you don’t get out to do any hikes. But – how on brand – I completely suggest you do get out and explore. All relevant park information can be found here .

Valley of Fire State Park

One hour east of the Las Vegas area, Valley of Fire State Park was basically the pinnacle of my USA travels in 2020. It quickly earned the title of the Best State Park of the Year for me, and you should definitely go and see why!

Though Valley of Fire can be easily accessed in a simple day trip, I’d recommend spending at least two days here. Simply put, there are incredible trails and unbelievable rock formations, some dating back to the time of the dinosaurs, found around every corner. You simply can’t see it all in just one day.

Though the hikes are short, the views are so incredible that I found myself spending a lot of extra time on the trails. Pictured below, the Fire Wave Trail was probably my favorite.

Out of all of the Los Angeles Spring Break road trips listed so far, if you are looking for a nice balance of night life and nature, Nevada might be your best option yet.

Seven Magic Mountains Art Installation

On the five hour trek back to Los Angeles, be sure to make a pit stop 20 minutes south of Vegas at the Seven Magic Mountains art installation. This is a great place to stretch your legs before crossing into California. You might as well get some great photos of this impressive artwork while you’re here!

Build by Ugo Rondinone, these towering rocks are a stunning contrast to the surrounding desert. For my detailed breakdown on parking, hours, climate, and concept, click here . It’s a cool artistic roadside stop that you’ve likely seen imagery of in Instagram!

3) Drive South of the Border into Mexican Wine Country.

Anyone living in Southern California is probably no stranger to the quick drive across the border from San Diego to Tijuana. And, as long as you’re prepared, crossing the Mexican border can be easy and fun!

While I am a huge fan of the Baja Peninsula in general, there is a lesser known area called Valle de Guadalupe that is absolutely perfect to visit in the spring time! ??(Shout out to my friend Cecilia, my road trip pal for this one!).

Only three and a half hours south of Los Angeles, this is undoubtedly one of Baja’s hidden gems. A beautiful wine country tucked in between deserts and mountains, offering gorgeous vistas, amazing food, and, of course, wine.

There are over 100 wineries in this increasingly popular region, located roughly 12 miles north of Ensenada. The wineries range from extremely modern and boutique to rustic and homey. Many of them offer world-class lunch and dinner options as well as an impressive array of wines.

This is an area that you can easily tailor to your specific budget, keeping costs to a minimum or going the more extravagant route.

With gorgeous vineyards, beautiful desert scenery, amazing food, impressive wines…. what’s not to like?

You might also be interested in: A Baja Sur Road Trip

Ready for Adventure? Subscribe Today.

Unsubscribe at anytime.

4) Arizona at it’s Best

Ahh, incredible Arizona… I can’t say enough about how beautiful your landscapes are. From barren desert to giant red rocks to Saguaro-dotted mountainsides… Arizona is seriously amazing.

I used to live in Arizona, so I easily have an entire blog’s worth of Arizona favorite spots. But for your Spring Break road trip from Los Angeles, here is an itinerary that is both interesting and doable in a week.

First stop, Phoenix. Phoenix is roughly a six hour drive from Los Angeles, depending on your exact starting point. But, if you are road tripping with friends , it will go by pretty quickly.

Phoenix and the immediate surroundings offer a lot to see in a much more compact area than Los Angeles. It all depends on what your interests are, but here are some very cool spots to visit.

On the first Friday of every month, Downtown Phoenix hosts an Art Walk through more than 70 independent art galleries. It runs from 6 to 10 p.m. and I have found some really interesting pieces here. You’ll also pass by restaurants and food trucks, so this is a fun activity before or after dinner.

If you’re new to the desert, then definitely visit the Desert Botanical Gardens near Tempe. Full disclosure, this is coming from someone who loves the Southwest, but it’s an incredible place to walk through. Lots of cacti, art exhibitions, and photo ops.

I get it – you’re on Spring Break. Maybe you’re not in the mood for cacti and art. In that case, head to Mill Road in Tempe. This is right near Arizona State University and has all of the coolest college bars.

Feel free to split your days to whatever fits your personality best, but I would recommend:

• For those in the mood to party: prioritize the Phoenix and the surrounding areas and spend less time in Sedona and Flagstaff.
• For those in the mood to hike and explore nature: prioritize Phoenix, Sedona and Flagstaff equally.

Now on to Sedona, which is a short two hours north of Phoenix. Well, if you drive straight, that is.

I highly recommend leaving extra time to explore some of the offbeat and interesting things to see between Phoenix and Sedona . Click that link to be taken to a post that describes these spots in detail; everything from a natural stone bridge to ancient cliff dwellings to a before-it’s’-time eco village to the mining ghost town of Jerome.

Once you reach Sedona itself, the tall and monumental rock formations will blow your mind. Reminiscent of Utah, these are certainly worth exploring! Hiking in Red Rock State Park would be a good way to stretch your legs and be inspired.

Besides the red rocky buttes, Sedona also offers a fun arts community, New Age shops, and lots of spas. The climate will be a pleasant change, becoming thick with pine forests instead of cacti. This is a great place to rest your head for at least a night and relax.

And finally, on to our last stop – Flagstaff. Arizona’s tallest mountain, Humphreys Peak, lives here. Hiking and biking are popular in the Flagstaff mountains, and it is easy to see why. You will be treated to more gorgeous scenery in the ponderosa pine forests of Arizona.

Astronomy and camping are popular here, due to the dark skies and bright stars. And, inside of the Roden Crater, the popular artist James Turrell is creating an observatory.

Piture Canyon is a fun place to discover petroglyphs carved by the Northern Sinaguan people, similar to those found in the Valley of Fire . And, there is also a great hike on the Moody Trail to a waterfall, so peaceful in the quiet surroundings.

Once you’ve split your week between these Arizona hot spots, it’s time for your seven hour trek back to Los Angeles, where you have surely earned a good night’s rest.

If this small taste of Arizona isn’t enough, consider checking out my 12 Day California and Arizona road trip .

5) Head to Palm Springs for a Week of Pools and Parties

Palm Springs is the quintessential Spring Break Destination. This is absolutely the most popular of my suggested Los Angeles Spring Break road trip ideas… and with good reason!

Under a two hour drive from Los Angeles, Palm Springs is easy to reach. Not to mention, everything you’d need for a week of either relaxation or partying is at hand.

The hotels and resorts are no stranger to the Spring Break crowds – many are known to host large pool parties, hiring DJs and catering to the twenty-something crowd. Picture fancy cocktails, pool floats, and loud music, all with a stunning desert backdrop.

Springtime is actually the ideal time for visitors. The triple digit desert temperatures haven’t yet begun and the beautiful sunny days are still on the cooler side.

For anyone looking to experience a bit of Palm Springs culture, there are plenty of attractions nearby. Consider visiting the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, offering bird’s eye views of the entire area, or the Botanical Garden, or even the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a surprising collection.

I have an in depth post all about Palm Springs and the many attractions. Palm Springs is also a gateway to Joshua Tree National Park , so if you are not interested in the entire desert road trip above but still want to check out this amazing park, you can.

So let me know in the comments below – which one of these Spring Break road trips from Los Angeles would you take?

• Cabo San Lucas vs San Jose del Cabo Travel: Which Is Better?
• Cancun vs Cabo: Which is Better, Los Cabos or Cancun?
• 10 Tips for Visiting Joshua Tree National Park
• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting El Matador Beach, Malibu
• The Perfect Day Trip to Malibu: A One Day Itinerary [2024]

About Monica

Monica has been a solo female world traveler for over 15 years. She is an expert on outdoor adventures, solo female travel, and off the beaten path destinations. She is the founder of This Rare Earth and is a firm believer that the world is not as scary as the media might have you think! Learn more about her here . Connect with her on Instagram .

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Lifestyle | Travel | Ultimate California

The ultimate California road trip: where to head from San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego

Sun-drenched beaches. Dramatic coastal drives. Rugged mountain ranges. Breathtaking National Parks. A feast of shopping, food and drink. Diverse culture to savour. Iconic cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego. Legendary landmarks that are etched in our memories from classic movies, favourite TV shows, pop songs and much-loved novels. California is a huge state that offers so much to explore – and an epic road trip is the perfect way to do it.

Getting to the west coast has never been easier, you'll be pleased to hear. With daily direct flights on British Airways from Heathrow you could be in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego before you know it. Hit the road south from the Golden City. Get your motor running and head out on the highway north from America’s Finest City. Go west, my friend, from the City of Angels. The choice is yours.

What's more, hiring a car allows you to enjoy the luxury of driving some of the most beautiful coastal routes, cover huge swathes of this mammoth state, and enjoy the glorious scale of California, all at your own pace.

It’s important to remember the sheer size of California. Get your head around this: the Golden State is even bigger than the UK, so you’ll want to plan your trip in advance to ensure you experience all your must-sees while still having time to chill and get into the carefree California lifestyle.

Plan an epic trip of a lifetime

Tap on the pins to learn more about great places to visit in California

Darya Shnykina

Your reward will be incredible variety. One morning you could be in a laid-back beach town where surfing is a way of life, and in the evening enjoying sundowners on a rooftop terrace overlooking the Hollywood Hills.

You don't have to stick to the coast, either. From the wine country of Napa and mountains of Yosemite, to the desert landscapes of the Mojave and tranquillity of Lake Tahoe, there are so many diverse regions and breathtaking scenes to explore all in one state.

Your holiday could tick off surfing, wine-tasting, whale-watching, hiking, Michelin-starred meals or street food tacos and amazing museums from your bucket list. The American Dream is out there – so what are you waiting for?

Read on for ideas of where your road trip could take you

Road trips from San Francisco

When you fly into San Francisco, your priority will be to see all the famous sites – such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Painted Ladies, cable cars and more – while getting to know the plethora of exciting neighbourhoods. The city is easy to get around, and day trips to Oakland and Berkeley are worthwhile too.

Ready to hit the open road? You're absolutely spoiled for choice. Head out to Napa, heart of the California wine country, where you’ll find tasting tours and a thriving food scene, or on to nearby Sonoma for boutique wineries.

While you’re in Northern California, it would be remiss not to experience a National Park or two. Redwood is the eponymous home to some of the oldest and largest trees, while Yosemite boasts waterfalls, canyons, and El Capitan. Whether you're camping onsite or staying in a nearby hotel, you’ll experience the Golden State's wonderfully varied landscape up-close.

With two direct British Airways flights a day from Heathrow to San Francisco International Airport, what are you waiting for?

Start planning your ultimate trip to San Francisco now at ba.com/sanfrancisco

Booking with British Airways and British Airways Holidays

• British Airways is the only UK airline to serve all three gateway airports into California: Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego. All flights depart from London Heathrow with a daily flight, or multiple flights per day
• All British Airways Holidays packages are ATOL protected, keeping you and your money safe
• All package bookings include flexible payment options, with deposits from just £75 per person with no balance due until seven weeks before travel for long-haul*
• All British Airways Holidays packages include 23kg baggage allowance included per person, along with a 24-hour dedicated support helpline during your trip
• British Airways Executive Club members can use their Avios for part-payment on holiday packages. For more details, visit ba.com/holidays
• British Airways Holidays offers a range of hotel options to suit all budgets. From budget friendly to 5* luxury, there’s something for everyone
• Partnering with Avis, British Airways Holidays offers fly-drive holidays across the state. When booking flights and car hire together, all mandatory charges are included, and you’ll benefit from roadside assistance and 24-hour customer support
• All hotels and car-hire are committed to British Airways’ high safety standards

*Based on two adults sharing. Full balance due seven weeks before departure. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply

Road trips from Los Angeles

From Beverly Hills and Melrose Avenue to Santa Monica and Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles is absolutely crammed with legendary places to visit – and then there are museums, art galleries and the theme parks to experience too. A week is a decent amount of time to see the city while allowing you time to adapt to the more relaxed pace of Angelinos.

When you’re ready to move on, you could head north along the coast to Santa Barbara and then on to Monterey County. Famed for its whale-watching and the jagged cliffs of Big Sur, this part of California starts to look and feel very different.

If old-school glamour is more your thing, follow the Rat Pack and head east to Palm Springs for a desert getaway that blends a mid-century vibe with chic day-spas, world-class golfing, and fine dining. It's the perfect way to relax, California style.

With multiple direct British Airways flights a day from Heathrow to Los Angeles International Airport, you could be landing in the City of Angels sooner than you think. It’s time to start planning.

Book your ultimate trip to Los Angeles now at ba.com/losangeles

Road trips from San Diego

Start your holiday of a lifetime with San Diego's own 59-mile scenic drive. This signposted trip takes in panoramic views of the coast, directs you through all the city’s must-sees, including the historic Old Town, and provides plenty of photo-ops along the way.

Then, keep hold of the beach-loving SoCal vibe and take US Route 101, the Pacific Coast Highway, for a jaw-dropping drive along the winding coastline up to Orange County's Huntington Beach – also known as Surf City,  and home to a range of pro-events.

When you’re this close, it makes sense to keep driving north to Los Angeles to soak up the city’s intoxicating blend of Hollywood landmarks, theme parks and luxe shopping, cuisine and nightlife.

Ready to change gears? Head inland: the National Parks of Death Valley and Joshua Tree are both a few hours away and show you very different sides to this majestic state. 

With twice daily British Airways flights from Heathrow to San Diego International Airport, it’s time you discovered the birthplace of California. 

Begin planning your ultimate trip to San Diego at ba.com/sandiego

Quick Links

Get in touch.

Unlock the Latest Knowledge that Can You Help You Achieve More in Life with More Confidence

Print and Digital Options Available

California Dreaming: 5 California Road Trips to Inspire Your Summer Travel

With its amply diverse coastline, California easily inspires, from hiking and wine trails to wellness retreats.The famous Golden State allows for a number of ways to reconnect and unplug. When it comes to the best road trips, I’m definitely a bit partial to the West Coast. As a Los Angeles native, I’ve had access to some of the best hiking in the world, highways that lead to coastlines dotted with super blooms in the spring, desert and wine country getaways, and access to some of the country’s most majestic natural wonders and outdoor adventures in nearby states. 

This array of experiences is what inspired me to launch road trips for my company, CrushGlobal Travel , three years ago. For travelers seeking to experience the breadth of what the West Coast has to offer at their own pace, getting behind the wheel is a great way to achieve that. 

Whether you’re looking for the best of Northern California’s wine country and redwoods or Southern California’s sought-after beaches and culinary scene, there’s a route for every type of travel interest. 

Here are a few of my favorite California road trip routes and stops along the way. 

1. Los Angeles for a food and arts scene

An easy starting off point for any road trip —with the added bonus of an international airport—Los Angeles is a great city to kick off your California road adventure. You’ll get your fix of major city attractions before heading off to desert oases, rolling vineyards and quaint beach towns. As a Los Angeles native, I’m constantly amazed by the new restaurants and art events that have recently opened or remained mainstays in the city for decades. 

The city’s diverse residents give Los Angeles’ dining scene a cornucopia of flavors, from sizzling carne asada off a streetside truck like Brothers Cousins Tacos , to intimate kaiseki experiences that feature earthy bowls of Dungeness crab with dashi broth at Chef Brandon Go’s 2-Michelin star Hayato . 

Once a center for towering law firms and banks, downtown Los Angeles now holds the pulse of much of the city’s food and arts scene. Take a museum visit to The Broad , where award-winning multi-hyphenate artist Mickalene Thomas has just debuted her first international solo exhibition, All About Love , to much acclaim. A few minutes away, at the Walt Disney Concert Hall’s Music Center –home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic– check out a rotating program of performances from the world-renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Beethoven’s Fidelio. After an afternoon show, have lunch at Chef Ray Garcia’s Asterid , where rotating seasonal dishes take center stage, including a tender lamb shank with chile Japones, pickled cabbage, charred eggplant puree, and flatbread.

Each summer, the city comes alive at The Hollywood Bowl , an amphitheater located in the Hollywood Hills that has welcomed artists like Billie Holiday and The Beatles. This summer, their all star lineup includes Harry Connick Jr., The Gipsy Kings, Pattie LaBelle and more.  The Bowl has a very impressive Food & Wine offerings as well, including Supper in Your Seats 3-course menus James Beard Award-winning chef Suzanne Goin and restaurateur Caroline Styne. In June, a one stop shop for a taste of the city’s best restaurants makes its annual debut at EEEEEATSCON , curated by Chase Sapphire and The Infatuation. From unforgettable oxtail patties from the beloved Bridgetown Roti , to citrusy sea bass ceviche from Za Za Zá , the event truly showcases L.A.’s dining scene.

For group dining, it’s hard to go sharing sushi at Koi or the Sunday roast experience at The London West Hollywood’s Boxwood Restaurant. For brunch, a Los Angeles mainstay has always been Culina Ristorante at the Four Seasons . Here, you’ll likely rub shoulders with a celebrity or two over buffet towers of king crab legs and prime rib. For a rooftop vibe, head to Waldorf Astoria’s floral studded The Rooftop by JG , and don’t skip the caviar fries. Another option is Terra , located on the top floor of Eataly with a bar that serves up over 50 gins from around the world and a divine made-to-order gelato cart that makes rounds around the 11,000 square foot space. A food and entertainment wonderland of sorts, Level 8 in the Moxy & AC Hotel features eight dining, entertainment and drinking venues where you could easily spend the entire night. The recently opened Mother of Pearl , an al fresco oyster and champagne bar is the perfect option to a balmy summer day, and Japanese teppanyaki sizzles in a dimly lit lounge environment at the popular Maison Kasai . For a stellar Italian experience, nearby Rossoblu is a city favorite—with dishes like ricotta and swiss chard tortellini bathed in tomato sauce and butter inspired by Chef Steve Samson’s childhood memories of Bologna. For modern Mexican dishes, Damian is not to be missed, especially the duck carnitas and dry aged branzino.

At Norma , Chef Jason Fullilove serves dishes like hot honey fried chicken and rice topped with hearty chunks of Santa Barbara stone crab. Come here to get a taste of city nightlife and great food. Two of my favorite wine bars in the city at the moment are Cardinale du Vin for a glass of gamay in an environment without any pretension, and Neighborhood Winery —which serves up zippy cuvées and other natural wines.

Check in: Make it a coastal stay and check into the The Georgian Hotel . This new stunner in Santa Monica looks straight out of a Wes Anderson movie, with its glowing turquoise art deco facade and 84 rooms that reveal the shimmer of the Pacific Ocean below.

2. Palm Springs for wellness

A desert escape that has gained notoriety because of large festivals like Coachella, Palm Springs and surrounding regions like Palm Desert and Desert Valley provide a plethora of wellness activities for roadtrippers. Natural spring waters abound at a number of spas, including The Spa at Séc-he in downtown Palm Springs, which features 22 private soaking tubs and an outdoor mineral pool. The sacred waters here have been shared by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians for over 130 years. At the adults-only Two Bunch Palms , mineral waters flow from a 600-year-old natural spring, best enjoyed in a Grotto with three large teak tubs to soak in. 

Beyond spas, Palm Springs is also home to the aptly named Wellness Park, which offers five acres of walking trails, fitness stations and a healing and fragrance garden that grows aromatic plants that include lavender and peppermint. Hikers can enjoy the majestic Tahquitz Canyon , home to a 60-foot waterfall, native wildlife and indigenous rock art, and bikers can easily find a path on a self-guided Big City Loop tour that takes riders through parks, the palm tree-lined, 100-acre Prescott Preserve and the midcentury modern architecture that the desert is known for. 

When hunger strikes, plant yourself downtown for lively options. Cheeky’s remains a desert favorite for breakfast, and the line outside proves it. Don’t miss the custard cheesy eggs or heirloom tomato tartine. For dinner, Trio offers dishes with ingredients that are often locally sourced, including diver scallops topped with pistachio butter and a salmon made with artichoke, cherry tomato and an olive-fennel salad. For a nightcap in a super sleek setting, a seat at the bar of Mr. Lyons Steakhouse’s dimly lit lounge is one of the best tickets in town. Come for the extra dirty martinis, but stay for the four layer caviar dip. 

Check in : Located on 20 acres of pristine grounds, We Care Spa is a luxury detox resort where guests can enjoy daily yoga, breathwork, sound healing, nutrition classes and more. Group classes are complimentary for all guests, who are educated on how to live a more holistic life through diet and mindfulness. There are over 40 treatments offered here, including a castor oil body wrap and colon hydrotherapy. Celebrities like Reese Witherspoon, Ben Affleck and Cameron Diaz have been drawn to We Care for its detox and fasting programs, meant to recalibrate the mind and body. 

3. Santa Barbara for wine lovers

You can arrive in Santa Barbara in just under two hours from Los Angeles. The coastal community has been dubbed the American Riviera because of its laid-back yet glitzy charm. Proximity to the fertile Santa Ynez Valley makes for a vibrant wine scene, and in downtown Santa Barbara alone, there are more than 240 tasting rooms to choose from. In 2021, Wine Enthusiast magazine called Santa Barbara Wine Region of the Year , and for good reason: from the pinot noirs of Sta. Rita Hills, to the syrahs of Ballard Canyon, there are more than enough grape varieties to satisfy a number of palates. 

Start your day downtown with breakfast at Helena Avenue Bakery , which offers artisanal treats like wildflower honey ricotta on sourdough toast and a breakfast taco stuffed with  chile-spiced hashbrowns, fried egg, smoked cheddar and tomatillo salsa. Just next door, start your first tasting at Santa Barbara Wine Collective , which showcases family-owned wineries from the region. Choose a seasonal flight curated by the staff, or take your pick at favorite producers that include Stolpman and A Tribute to Grace . Continue on to Jaffurs Wine Cellars , where winemaker Stephen Searle creates beautifully balanced syrahs like the 2020 Upslope, with crushed red petal aromatics and smooth, peppered jam flavors that make for a perfect pairing with a juicy ribeye steak. 

Santa Barbara boasts more women winemakers per capita than most other regions of the world.  Two winemakers’ creations not to miss during a visit include Sonja Magdevski of Casa Dumetz and Jill Russell of Cambria Estate Winery —both of which offer tasting rooms that exude the ethos of each winery. 

For dinner, the well-loved downtown mainstay, The Lark , never misses. On a summer night, request an outdoor seat and enjoy plates of passion fruit infused crudo, spring radishes with whipped butter and buttermilk fried chicken with chile de arbol honey. 

Check in: There is no shortage of hotel options in Santa Barbara, from beachside bungalow-style stays to palatial mountain retreats. To be close to the downtown tasting room option, check into the Moorish-meets-Mediterranean designed Hotel Californian . For a luxury stay with enviable views, it doesn’t get much better than the sweeping retreat that El Encanto offers. 

4. Oceanside and San Diego for miles of beautiful coastline 

Approximately 1.5 hours south of Los Angeles, Oceanside is a communal beach town with the perks of a weekly farmers market, miles of coastline and a pier that lends views of some of the best sunsets in the state. It’s a great option for an overnight stay on your way to San Diego. 

Check into Mission Pacific Beach Resort JDV by Hyatt , a beautiful oceanfront boutique hotel with a lively rooftop pool, bar and DJ. The hotel is also home to Valle —the only Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant in Southern California. Here, Chef Roberto Alcocer offers an eight-course tasting menu that celebrates the local produce and flavors of Baja Mexico’s Guadalupe Valley. The food is equal parts art and a celebration of Mexico, with plates of sea scallop with a smoky salsa molcajete and wagyu carne asada. 

After a night in Oceanside, continue on to San Diego, where surfers make their way to ride waves and beachside coffee shops and restaurants continue the theme of this region’s beachy roots. There are 17 miles of coastline in San Diego, and some of the most popular sandy retreats include Coronado Beach, La Jolla Cove and the family-friendly Mission Beach. Consider a day cruise from the city’s Embarcadero, with different activity themes ranging from whale watching to champagne brunches.  

Check in: The LaFayette Hotel & Club has recently undergone a $31 million renovation that includes 139 rooms, tumbled vintage checkered marble floors, crystal chandeliers, a pool bar and an Oaxacan-inspired concept and Mezcalería. On the weekend, it’s the place to be in the city for a night out, even if you’re not a hotel guest. 

5. Mendocino for outdoor adventure

Last on the list of our California road trips is Mendocino. Located on California’s northern coast, Mendocino contains some of the state’s most beautiful natural wonders on over 90 miles of coastline. Start in Sonoma County for a bit of a wine tasting adventure at Emeritus Vineyards (don’t miss the stellar pinot noirs) and grab some pastries for the road at Wild Flour Bread . Afterward, you’ll arrive in Mendocino in just under three hours on the road. This very scenic drive will take you through thick fog that reveals majestic redwood trees and teeming forests. Waves from the Pacific Ocean crash into cliff sides blanketed in poppies, and charming boutiques and restaurants are plentiful. 

Tap into the region’s richness of outdoor adventure with a hike through Russian Gulch State Park . The Fern Canyon Trail leads to a waterfall and series of redwood trees, and the Headlands Trail is one of the park’s biggest attractions.  Leading to a collapsed sea cave that gurgles with water,  the trail is only .75 of a mile long. Nearby, Ft. Bragg is a good option on a sunny day as it’s home to Glass Beach, where millions of tiny glass pebbles shimmer under the sun’s rays. 

Make a trip to the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens , where 47 acres of foliage and flowers provide a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. Another special way to experience Mendocino is aboard the popular Skunk Train , which offers individual railbikes for guided journeys through the redwoods. For whiskey lovers, there’s an excursion on the train that offers a two-hour trip through some of the region’s highest points and a whiskey sommelier who provides a fun tasting and education on the spirit. 

When hunger strikes, reserve a table at Trillium Cafe , located inside a historic home in Mendocino Village with memorable dishes that include local duck confit fettuccine and a caramelized onion tart. Meyer Family Cellars is a new tasting room serving up splashes of pinot noir and sauvignon over plates of artisanal cheese. 

Check in: Brewery Gulch Inn & Spa or Trailborn .

Photo by Michael Urmann / Shutterstock .

5473 Blair Road, Suite 100 PMB 30053 Dallas, TX 75231

Copyright © 2024 SUCCESS Magazine. All rights reserved.

Secret Service agent robbed at gunpoint during Biden’s Los Angeles trip, police say

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A U.S. Secret Service agent was robbed at gunpoint as President Joe Biden was  visiting Los Angeles  for a fundraising event over the weekend, officials said.

The agent was returning from work Saturday night when he was accosted in a residential community in Tustin, about an hour’s drive southeast of Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Someone called the Tustin Police Department shortly after 9:30 p.m. to report the robbery. Police said the agent had his bag stolen at gunpoint. The agent, who was not injured, fired his gun during the confrontation, police said. The Secret Service said they did not know if anyone was shot.

Tustin Police said Monday they had not found a suspect. Officers did find some of the agent’s stolen belongings in the area. Police reported a silver Infiniti FX35 was seen leaving the scene.

Biden and former President Barack Obama held a star-studded fundraising event in Los Angeles on Sunday that brought in more than $30 million for Biden’s reelection campaign.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Chatham Co. Sheriff Wilcher remains in critical condition

Statesboro woman killed after Smith State Prison incident

One dead and two injured in Highway 21 wreck

Savannah’s Moon River Brewing to close Sunday

Commercial building fire causes traffic nightmare

Latest news.

Horry County motorcyclist died hitting illegally parked tractor, lawsuit says

‘Her spirit is so strong’: Woman survives being buried alive

Convicted killer of California college student Kristin Smart ordered to pay $350k in restitution

Officials investigate officer involved shooting at Circle K, Chatham Crossing plaza on Ogeechee Road

The 5 best neighborhoods to explore in Los Angeles

Feb 29, 2024 • 7 min read

From celebrities to surfers, storied history to modern marvels, Los Angeles is a wonder for travelers to explore © Shutterstock © Shutterstock /

One thing about Los Angeles is no two neighborhoods are the same. The dynamic mix of cultures, lifestyles, and atmospheres allows each area to carry its own unique essence and vibrancy. From the bustling up-all-night energy (and best barbeque) of Koreatown to the glitz and glamor of Hollywood  – a mere 10 minutes away. While Venice is home to bohemian charm, the artistic heartbeat of Silver Lake and the cultural richness of Pasadena couldn’t be anything different. 

The kaleidoscope of diversity in Los Angeles keeps visitors and locals on their toes and is what makes the city beat. With such variety, you may not find your spot right away, but one thing’s for sure, there’s a neighborhood for everyone. 

Stay up all night in Koreatown

Best neighborhood for nightlife .

New York City may have the title of "The City That Never Sleeps", but Koreatown is a close second. Known for its culturally rich neighborhood and vibrant nightlife scene, Koreatown is found in Central Los Angeles , within 10 minutes of Downtown .

Daytime exploration yields a bustling environment within its three square miles, with its shopping scene a popular attraction. In fact, Koreatown is home to more large malls than any other similar-sized area within the United States. Music Plaza – found inside the three-story Koreatown Plaza, is a must-visit for K-Pop fans, while beauty enthusiasts will get lost in Palace Beauty Metro. 

Koreatown comes alive when the sun sets, especially for those who live and breathe Korean barbeque. Parks BBQ is a local favorite with chef Jenee Kim opening the acclaimed spot in 2003 after receiving a degree in culinary science from Seoul Women’s College. For a more casual Korean pub-like feel, try Dan Sung Sa , an authentic spot without the barbeque scene. You can’t go wrong ordering here with prices starting at $2.99 and the kitchen open until 2 am.

While much of Los Angeles requires a car to get around, visitors to Koreatown have the advantage of being able to explore the city on foot. Alongside the ample nightclubs, lounges and bars, electric energy is also found at its karaoke bars. Once you’ve warmed up your vocal cords, head to Cafe Brass Monkey for a high-energy atmosphere, or if you prefer your own space, Gaam Karaoke is also a guaranteed great time. 

An all-nighter in Koreatown isn't out of the question, with many choosing to end their nights at one of the many spas. Wi Spa is open 24 hours and not only offers standard spa treatments but has its own restaurant too – perfect for when those 3am cravings hit. 

Spend your day like a celebrity in Hollywood 

Best neighborhood for tourists .

Hollywood is the heart of Los Angeles and home to all the glitz and glamour. With iconic attractions and easy access to public transport, it’s a popular place to visit when exploring Los Angeles. A walk along the famed Hollywood Walk of Fame is a great place to start and get excited about the talent-filled town. The stretch along Hollywood Boulevard was developed in 1958 by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to create a landmark to promote tourism in the area. Since then, over 2600 entertainers like George Clooney and Oprah Winfrey have been honored with a star. The strip is busy all year round, so if you want to take your time to admire all the names and take pictures with your favorite stars, start your day early.

While on Hollywood Boulevard, visit the Hollywood Museum and explore the city's rich history through memorabilia and artifacts. Across the street is the TCL Chinese Theatre , where if you're lucky enough, you may get to witness a movie premiere red carpet. If it's not blocked off for a big event, admire all the celebrity hands and footprints at the iconic venue and book a movie to watch. The Runyon Canyon hike is also in the heart of Hollywood and is known to be one of the best places for celebrity sightings. 

Being a prime tourist destination, finding accommodation, eateries, and things to do in Hollywood is a piece of cake. Between the countless street performers, celebrity house tours, and diverse dining and drinking options, Hollywood has something for everyone – and it's a top place to take kids. 

Experience SoCal’s relaxed beach culture in Venice 

Best neighborhood for beach lovers and chilled vibes .

Barbie is the most recent movie to use  Venice  as a film location with its rollerskaters, runners, and street performers. And that isn't just for show, Venice is truly a lively-yet-chill beach town to visit. 

Along the boardwalk you'll find the iconic skatepark that attracts skateboarders, rollerbladers and spectators, who love watching and performing tricks and stunts. Within a five-minute walk from the skatepark are the famous basketball courts and Muscle Beach . The historic workout area originated in the 1930s and quickly became a hub for bodybuilders, weightlifters and fitness enthusiasts like Arnold Schwarzenegger. 

Nearby off 25th Street is the Venice Canals which will quickly take you away from LA and transport you to Venice, Italy. Founded by Abbot Kinney in 1905, the tobacco millionaire was inspired by the European town so much so that he dug several miles of canals to drain the marshes here. However, after many court hearings, in 1928 the Supreme Court ruled that the city was within their rights to pave most of them in as they needed more roads. Starting with 13, six remain today and offer a charming escape within the Venice neighborhood. 

A few blocks up will lead you to the namesake, Abbot Kinney Boulevard , a trendy strip known for its bohemian boutique shops, art galleries, and upscale dining options, many of which are Australian-owned or inspired. Daytime exploration will offer a glimpse of the artistic and fashion-forward side of Venice with countless shops and eateries to choose from. 

Leave the hustle and bustle and enjoy Pasadena’s small-town charm

Best neighborhood for relaxed culture.

Pasadena exudes a balanced mix of sophistication and small-town charm. Found 20 minutes northeast of Downtown, it’s close to the main city’s attractions while still being its own peaceful escape. Pasadena is an inviting town with a relaxed atmosphere and a culturally enriched environment. The San Gabriel Mountains serve as the backdrop, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking. 

If you happen to be visiting Los Angeles on New Year’s Day you'll be right in time for Pasadena's Tournament of Roses Parade. The annual tradition began in 1890, and now sees a two-hour 5.5-mile parade of elaborate floral floats, marchings bands, and high-stepping equestrians. The parade even inspired the name of Pasadena’s 92,500-person stadium, the Rose Bowl , which opened in 1922. If you’re not able to catch a show or game at the stadium, the Rose Bowl Flea Market takes place there every second Sunday of the month. With over 2,500 vendors, it’s known as the "Flea Market of the Stars".

Eat your way through trendy spots in Silver Lake 

Best neighborhood for food lovers .

Silver Lake is considered an Eastside neighborhood in Los Angeles and a creative hub that fosters a sense of individuality and is known for its artistic and hipster flair. The atmosphere is inclusive, trendy, vibrant, diverse and home to those who value cultural expression and community. 

While artisanal coffee shops and independent bookstores stand out in the day, diverse eateries with some of the best vegan options and trendy bars take over when the sun sets. Ruby Fruit is a popular new natural wine bar and LA’s first lesbian bar in about a decade. Night + Market is another must-visit, but note their Silver Lake location doesn’t take reservations, so be prepared to wait (trust me, it’s worth it). 

Staying in Silver Lake isn’t as easily accessible as other areas like Hollywood, however, they offer many boutique hotels and options on home rental sites like Airbnb.

This article was first published Jun 22, 2021 and updated Feb 29, 2024.

Explore related stories

May 22, 2024 • 7 min read

Few LGBTIQ+ travelers can resist making a beeline to the local “gayborhood.” Just in time for Pride month, here are 10 of the best ones all over the USA.

Aug 4, 2022 • 6 min read

Apr 9, 2022 • 4 min read

Feb 1, 2020 • 5 min read

Jun 17, 2024 • 6 min read

May 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 29, 2024 • 11 min read

Apr 17, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 17, 2024 • 4 min read

Letters to the Editor: LAX is awful, but the FlyAway bus is great. Why not expand that service?

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

To the editor: One needs only to look at the infamous Thanksgiving images of a completely gridlocked 405 Freeway to understand that efforts to improve the unacceptable ground transportation situation at Los Angeles International Airport have little chance of succeeding. (“ In a city known for traffic, LAX is a standout for its gridlock. Can it be fixed? ” Opinion, June 11)

The improvements under construction may divert traffic from the infamous roadway horseshoe connecting the terminals, but they are unlikely to materially reduce traffic to the LAX area. Apparently, owner Los Angeles World Airports continues to cling to the fanciful ideal that, despite clear limitations, all travelers are entitled to arrive and depart the airport in a single-occupant vehicle.

How do we know this? Look at the plight of LAX FlyAway.

At $9.75 one-way, FlyAway bus service can reduce vehicle traffic to the airport, is cost-effective to passengers and carries a far lower price tag than the billions of dollars and decades of waiting involved with building out the Metro system.

And despite these obvious benefits, only two FlyAway lines — yes, two — operate in a region as vast as Greater Los Angeles.

So instead of expanding the FlyAway service, LAWA is effectively building a new horseshoe for private automobiles and a frightfully expensive connection to a Metro system that does not yet serve alarmingly large swathes of the region. Unfortunately, despite great cost and fanfare, LAWA’s plans appear destined for failure.

Reagan McClymonds, Los Angeles

To the editor: Tens of thousands of travelers fly into and out of LAX every day. Your article features three who complain. From that microscopic sampling, you get a front-page headline that calls LAX “the worst airport I’ve ever been to.”

But much of the article is actually interviews and quotes by transportation experts that LAX is a strong work in progress racing to the 2028 Olympics. These are positive, including a couple that says LAX is far better than the chaos at Atlanta’s airport, the nation’s busiest.

Yes, Los Angeles has gridlock. However, the headline should reflect how good LAX is, and that it will soon be a great, world-class airport.

Mark Shapiro, Los Angeles

To the editor: Years ago, The Times had an article that stated people live with civic mistakes for decades. I say, scrap the LAX People Mover and overpriced parking structures and finally build a train to the airport.

In New York, the simplicity of a plane icon showing the way to JFK Airport is easy to follow. In Chicago, seeing the trains speeding to O’Hare International Airport in the middle of traffic jams causes envy in me. At that airport, you take a few escalators down and you board a train — no cars, no traffic.

B.P. James, Long Beach

To the editor: In addition to the problems enumerated in this article, LAX is arguably the worst airport for elderly and handicapped patrons.

All these “improvements” relate to reducing traffic and getting people out of the terminals via shuttle buses and the People Mover, yet how will an elderly or a handicapped traveler navigate these?

LAX accommodates these travelers while inside the terminal with personnel accompanying them on electric carts from the ticket desks through the gate and in reverse to baggage claim on return trips. However, once they get their luggage, they are on their own.

Elderly travelers should be able to walk outside the terminal and grab a taxi like in every other city in the world, not have to schlep their luggage on a shuttle to a remote lot where they will have to wait in yet another line.

Wendy Prober-Cohen, Tarzana

To the editor: The “shiny Tom Bradley International” terminal is cited in your article on LAX. What a joke!

I recently spent three weeks in Spain and Portugal, enjoying immaculate, well-designed air and rail terminals of all vintages and states of construction, only to come home to LAX’s worn-out and nightmarish Tom Bradley terminal.

There is no excuse for the pandemonium and utter lack of maintenance. Broken and abandoned luggage carts lie about, urinals are stopped up, dusty trash surrounds escalators, and the baggage claim is dilapidated. I pity fliers who are handicapped, elderly or traveling with children.

LAX needs a complete redesign, not Band-Aids.

Richard Stanley, Los Feliz

To the editor: I must take issue with your claim that LAX does not have a “direct connection to public transit.” Everyone in my area knows the most convenient way to and from LAX is the FlyAway bus from Union Station in downtown Los Angeles.

I took that bus yesterday and it arrived within 30 minutes in the middle of rush hour. If you grab the early bus it can be there in 22 minutes. I’ve done it.

John Kwiatkowski, Los Angeles

To the editor: Hey, L.A. Times, how about knocking down the headline whining and negativity a notch?

We live here and are all aware of our city’s big issues. We could use some help and positivity, not more sand in our face.

Kenneth Thompson, Manhattan Beach

More to Read

Letters to the Editor: L.A. has stopped wire theft before. Here’s how to do it for the 6th Street Viaduct

June 17, 2024

Letters to the Editor: Caitlin Clark gets bullied in the WNBA. Why is that considered normal for rookies?

June 6, 2024

More From the Los Angeles Times

Letters to the Editor

Letters to the Editor: Gas pool heaters are an easy target. What about gas cars?

Letters to the Editor: Vandalizing Cal State L.A. buildings isn’t peaceful campus protest

Letters to the Editor: Trump’s billionaire donors are telling the rest of us to go eat cake

June 16, 2024

Letters to the Editor: Did Byron Donalds really ‘praise Jim Crow’?