Leaving Los Angeles for a day opens the door to a completely different California. As the city skyline fades behind you, the landscape quickly shifts from freeways to mountains, beaches, or desert. Within just a couple of hours, you can trade traffic for ocean breezes, quiet forests, or scenic vineyards. That’s the magic of LA, it’s surrounded by some of the most diverse and beautiful destinations in the state.

TL;DR

  • Within 1–2.5 hours of LA: beaches (Malibu, Laguna), wine (Temecula, Santa Barbara), desert (Palm Springs, Joshua Tree), mountains (Big Bear, Baldy), island (Catalina).
  • Leave early; return off-peak (avoid Sun late-day). Cluster nearby stops to maximize time.
  • Pack layers, water, sunscreen; desert/mountain trips need extra prep (fuel, chains in winter).
  • Catalina needs ferry tickets; Joshua Tree has no services inside—bring supplies.
  • Sample loops included: Coast (Santa Monica→Malibu→Zuma), Desert (Palm Springs→Joshua Tree), Wine & History (Temecula→San Juan Capistrano).

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Overview

Day trips are part of life in Los Angeles because escaping the city is as easy as getting on the road. A short drive can take you from crowded streets to quiet beaches, mountain trails, or desert landscapes. With so many natural and cultural destinations nearby, it’s no wonder locals regularly swap freeway views for open skies and ocean horizons.

Southern California offers an incredible mix of scenery and experiences all within a couple of hours. You can hike to waterfalls in the morning, sip wine at a vineyard by afternoon, and catch a coastal sunset before heading home. From charming small towns and art-filled villages to national parks and seaside drives, there’s something for every kind of traveler.

This guide explores the best day trips from Los Angeles, with top spots that capture the variety of Southern California, all easy to reach in a single, adventure-filled day.

Malibu – Beaches, Hiking, and Oceanfront Dining (45 min)

Malibu is the quintessential Southern California beach escape, a coastal strip of “27 miles of scenic beauty” just up the road from LA. Set between the sparkling Pacific and the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu feels like a world of its own despite being only about 45 minutes from downtown (when traffic favors you). It offers a perfect mix of stunning beaches and surf, seaside hiking trails, and even a vibrant local art scene and upscale shopping.

Spend the morning beach-hopping: Zuma Beach’s broad sands are ideal for swimming and sunbathing, while El Matador’s hidden coves and sea caves provide dramatic photo ops among the rocky cliffs. If you’re up for a short hike, trails like Point Dume or Solstice Canyon let you stretch your legs with ocean panoramas or a waterfall retreat inland.

Come lunchtime, enjoy oceanfront dining—perhaps fish tacos with your toes in the sand at Paradise Cove or a fresh farm-to-table meal on the historic Malibu Pier. In the afternoon, you can watch surfers carve waves at Surfrider Beach or tour the 1920s Adamson House for a glimpse of Malibu’s Spanish-tiled history.

Stay for a legendary Pacific Coast sunset, when the sky turns tangerine over the water. Malibu’s easygoing charm and natural beauty make it a favorite day trip for Angelenos seeking a quick beachy breather from city life.

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On summer weekends, head out early and take the Pacific Coast Highway northbound during off-peak hours because Malibu’s two-lane coastal roads can get congested by midday.

Santa Barbara – Coastal Charm, Wineries, and Mission Heritage (2 hrs)

With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Santa Ynez Mountains rising behind, Santa Barbara is often dubbed the “American Riviera” for its Mediterranean-like beauty. About 90–120 minutes northwest of Los Angeles (depending on traffic), this elegant seaside city makes for a richly rewarding day trip.

Santa Barbara enchants visitors with its red-tile Spanish Colonial architecture, lush palm-lined streets, and a relaxed coastal vibe. Start your visit downtown on State Street, where boutique shops, sidewalk cafés, and galleries lead you toward the waterfront.

Don’t miss the historic Santa Barbara County Courthouse – climb its clock tower for a panoramic view of the city’s white stucco buildings and sparkling ocean beyond. History buffs will want to visit Old Mission Santa Barbara, a stunning 18th-century mission known as the “Queen of the Missions,” surrounded by rose gardens.

For a taste of local flavor, explore the Funk Zone district – a cluster of hip wine-tasting rooms, breweries, and art murals just steps from the beach. In fact, Santa Barbara sits at the gateway to wine country; if time allows, sample a few regional wines either in town or by driving into the nearby Santa Ynez Valley’s vineyards.

Stearns Wharf, jutting into the Pacific, is perfect for a leisurely stroll with an ice cream in hand and maybe spotting harbor seals. Given its many attractions, Santa Barbara can fill a full day easily – but even a short visit will leave you charmed by its blend of culture, cuisine, and coastline.

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Plan for about a 2-hour drive each way. To avoid heavy traffic (and crowds of fellow Angelenos), consider a weekday trip if possible. If you go on a weekend, leaving LA early in the morning and departing Santa Barbara by late afternoon can help dodge the worst congestion on U.S. 101.

Ojai – Bohemian Mountain Town (1.5 hrs)

Tucked into a valley in the Topatopa Mountains, Ojai is a tranquil haven that feels far removed from Los Angeles – both in distance and spirit. The 90-minute drive northwest delivers you to a small town with a big soul.

Ojai has long attracted artists, wellness seekers, and those looking to “live local.” Its quaint village center is filled with galleries, new-age bookstores, and family-owned shops rather than big chains. Stroll down the arcade (a Spanish-style colonnade) and you’ll find organic cafes, wine tasting rooms pouring local vintages, and boutiques selling handmade pottery and Ojai’s famous lavender and olive oil products.

Nature is never far: the surrounding valley is dotted with orchards (keep an eye out for roadside stands selling Ojai’s sweet Pixie tangerines in spring) and miles of hiking trails in the Los Padres National Forest. You might start with a morning visit to Bart’s Books, the world’s largest outdoor bookstore – an Ojai icon bursting with novels and local lore under the sun.

In the afternoon, perhaps rent a bike to pedal the scenic Ojai Valley Trail or take a meditation class at a tranquil day spa. As golden hour approaches, head to a viewpoint to witness Ojai’s famed “pink moment” – the sunset glow that turns the mountains a luminous rosy hue. Ojai’s blend of bohemian charm, agricultural richness, and spiritual retreat atmosphere makes it an ideal day trip to recharge your batteries.

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“Visiting Ojai feels like stepping into a small-town dream. A close-knit community with artsy personality and beautiful scenery, only about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles.”

Palm Springs – Desert Modernism, Mid-Century Design, and Spa Escapes (2 hrs)

Two hours east of LA, Palm Springs has been a legendary getaway for decades – an oasis city where mid-century modern architecture meets palm-lined resorts under the desert sun. Driving into the Coachella Valley, you’ll notice the distinctive windmills spinning in the breeze as a sign you’ve arrived in desert country.

Palm Springs greets day-trippers with its unique mix of retro glamour and natural beauty. Explore downtown Palm Springs along Palm Canyon Drive, where vintage boutiques, art galleries, and tiki bars evoke the Rat Pack era (the likes of Frank Sinatra and Elvis vacationed here).

Design lovers might take a self-guided tour of famous mid-century homes and the Instagram-famous pink door house in the Indian Canyons neighborhood. For a literal change in perspective, ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway 8,500 feet up Mt. San Jacinto – in just 10 minutes you’ll go from desert floor to a cool pine forest, with an epic view over the valley.

Back in town, you can visit the Palm Springs Art Museum to see world-class art (including Native American and contemporary pieces) , or learn some WWII history at the Air Museum with its vintage planes. Of course, relaxation is a Palm Springs specialty: claim a day pass at a chic poolside resort or soak in natural mineral hot springs in nearby Desert Hot Springs.

If time permits, a quick jaunt to the quirky International Banana Museum or a date shake at a local stand will satisfy your curiosity and your sweet tooth. Palm Springs shines brightest outside of summer—cooler months mean pleasant days ideal for wandering and very comfortable evenings dining on a patio under the stars.

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Plan your Palm Springs day trip for fall, winter, or early spring. From October through January, you’ll enjoy warm (but not scorching) days and smaller crowds, whereas summer often sizzles above 100°F.

Joshua Tree National Park – Surreal Rock Formations and Stargazing (2.5 hrs)

Venture about two and a half hours east of LA (just beyond Palm Springs) and you’ll enter the otherworldly landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park. Straddling the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, Joshua Tree is famous for its namesake spiky Joshua trees that look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book, as well as massive boulder formations that invite climbing and exploration.

In a single day, you can experience highlights of this surreal park. Start at a visitor center (such as Joshua Tree Visitor Center in the town of Joshua Tree) to grab a map and fill up on water – then drive into the park along Park Boulevard.

Must-see stops include Hidden Valley, an easy loop trail encircled by towering rocks where legend says cattle rustlers hid out; Keys View, a short detour that rewards with a sweeping panorama across the Coachella Valley (you can see the Salton Sea and even Signal Mountain in Mexico on an exceptionally clear day); and Skull Rock, a whimsically eroded granite formation resembling a giant skull.

Between these sights, you’ll pass countless Joshua trees twisting toward the sky and may spot desert wildlife like jackrabbits or lizards. As evening approaches, find a safe pullout or a picnic area to watch the sunset transform the desert with pastel colors. Thanks to its remote location and lack of light pollution, Joshua Tree boasts incredibly dark skies – on a moonless night the stars seem almost close enough to touch.

If you stay into early evening, you’ll be treated to a celestial show of constellations, planets, and the Milky Way arching overhead. Just be sure to have a headlamp or flashlight for navigating after dark. Joshua Tree’s dramatic geology and quiet, otherworldly atmosphere make it clear why so many artists, musicians, and soul-seekers find inspiration here. It’s the perfect counterpoint to city life, if only for a day.

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There are no restaurants, gas stations, or stores inside Joshua Tree National Park. Bring plenty of water (at least 1 gallon per person), snacks or lunch, sunscreen, and a full tank of gas.

Catalina Island – Ferry to an Island Getaway (1 hr ferry)

For a completely different kind of day trip, how about visiting an island? Catalina Island sits just off the Southern California coast, and reaching this Pacific paradise is half the fun.

A high-speed ferry from Long Beach or San Pedro (about 1 hour each way) will whisk you to Avalon, the main town on Catalina that feels like a Mediterranean seaside village frozen in time. Step off the boat and you’ll immediately notice the slower pace: colorful storefronts and cottages line the harbor, golf carts outnumber cars on the narrow streets, and the hills around town remain wild and undeveloped.

In Avalon, you can tour the iconic Catalina Casino – a 1929 Art Deco landmark that isn’t a gambling hall at all, but rather a grand ballroom and theater from the Big Band era. Active travelers might rent snorkel gear or join a boat tour to Lover’s Cove, where clear waters reveal bright garibaldi fish and kelp forests, or try kayaking along the coast to peek into hidden coves.

Back on land, browse quirky shops for saltwater taffy and souvenirs, or enjoy a seafood lunch (the island is known for its great fish tacos and clam chowder). For a panoramic view, take a short hike or a golf cart ride up to the Buena Vista Point overlook above Avalon Bay. Catalina’s interior, with its rolling hills and bison herds, is mostly accessible via guided tours, but on a day trip you might stick to the charming town and beachfront.

Even a few hours here, relaxing with an ice cream cone on the Green Pleasure Pier or biking along the waterfront, can feel wonderfully removed from mainland concerns. Though it’s located just 22 miles off the coast of Los Angeles, Catalina “feels like a world away,” offering adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

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“Though it’s only 22 miles from Los Angeles, Catalina Island feels like a world away.”

Laguna Beach – Art Colony by the Sea with Ocean Cliffs (1.5 hrs)

Head about an hour south into Orange County and you’ll discover Laguna Beach, a coastal town that perfectly blends artistic spirit with natural beauty. Laguna Beach was founded as an art colony, and even today you’ll find over 50 galleries and studios sprinkled throughout this seaside village.

The town itself is a charmer: walkable and laid-back, with flower-hung cottages and chic boutiques side by side. Start your visit by exploring the art scene—perhaps the Laguna Art Museum (devoted to California artists) or any number of small galleries showcasing local painters and sculptors.

If you’re here in summer, don’t miss the famous art festivals like the Sawdust Art Festival or the Festival of Arts, which bring a creative buzz to town. Beyond the arts, Laguna’s coastline is arguably one of the most beautiful in SoCal. Heisler Park, perched on bluffs above the ocean, offers walking paths with next-level views of rocky coves and turquoise waters.

You can take a staircase down to iconic beaches like Main Beach (right in town, great for swimming and people-watching) or Thousand Steps Beach (a bit further south, known for its sea cave at low tide). Many coves are part of a marine reserve, so keep your eyes out for tide pool creatures like starfish and crabs.

For lunch, enjoy one of Laguna’s many ocean-view cafés—perhaps some fresh fish tacos with a Pacific panorama. In the afternoon, consider a coastal hike in Crystal Cove State Park (just north of Laguna) or simply wander the village streets, discovering hidden murals and public art installations as you go. By evening, as the sun dips behind Laguna’s dramatic cliffs, you’ll appreciate why artists and nature-lovers alike find inspiration here.

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Parking in downtown Laguna Beach can be tough, especially on weekends. Take advantage of the free Laguna Beach trolley that runs along the coast and to popular beaches.

Big Bear Lake – Alpine Forests and Lakeside Strolls (2 hrs)

Swapping palm trees for pine trees is easy when you day trip to Big Bear Lake. Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains about 100 miles east of LA, Big Bear is a four-season mountain resort area that offers a refreshing alpine escape. The drive (roughly 2 hours) winds up into forests and elevation – suddenly the air is crisper, and in winter, snow blankets the ground.

At about 6,700 feet elevation, Big Bear Lake sits among fragrant pine woods and is framed by mountain peaks. In summer and fall, it’s all about the outdoors: you can hike trails that range from easy meadow walks to summiting the 8,200-foot Bertha Peak for a stunning lake vista.

A popular, family-friendly option is the Alpine Pedal Path, a level trail along the north shore that’s perfect for biking or walking and rewards with spellbinding mountain views of the lake. You might also rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore Big Bear Lake’s calm waters, or simply relax at Boulder Bay Park with a picnic as you watch boaters and kayakers glide by.

Wildlife lovers can visit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, a rehabilitation sanctuary home to black bears, mountain lions, and dozens of other native animals (many of whom are rescues that can’t be released). In winter, Big Bear buzzes with skiers and snowboarders hitting the slopes at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain—some of Southern California’s best skiing, and notably the closest ski resorts to Los Angeles.

Even if you don’t ski, you can take the Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair to the mountaintop for lunch with a view. Big Bear Village, the town’s quaint center, offers cozy restaurants, gear shops, and maybe some hot cocoa or craft beer to warm up. Whether you come for wildflowers or snowfall, Big Bear Lake delivers a complete change of scenery from LA’s urban hustle, all in a day’s adventure.

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If visiting Big Bear in winter, check the road conditions before you go. Mountain routes sometimes require tire chains after snowstorms. It’s wise to carry a set of chains and know how to use them, as weather can change quickly at high elevation.

Temecula Valley – Wine Tasting and Hot Air Balloons (2 hrs)

Trade city freeways for rolling vineyards with a jaunt to Temecula Valley, Southern California’s thriving wine country located about 85 miles southeast of Los Angeles. In roughly 1.5–2 hours, you’ll reach this scenic valley known for its warm sunshine, Mediterranean climate, and over 40 wineries dotting the hills.

Start your day in Old Town Temecula, a charming downtown that preserves an Old West vibe with wooden boardwalks and 19th-century-style buildings. Browse antique shops, artisanal foodie boutiques, and maybe grab a coffee from a local cafe to fuel up. By late morning, head out to the wineries. You can drive yourself along Rancho California Road and Calle Contento (the main winery loops) or join a guided wine tour if you’d rather not worry about driving after sipping.

Many vineyards offer tasting flights and beautiful terraces overlooking vine-covered hills – South Coast Winery, Wilson Creek (famous for their almond sparkling wine), and Ponte Winery are popular stops, among others. Aside from wine, Temecula is famed for something else that soars: hot air balloons.

The valley’s gentle winds make it ideal for ballooning, and you’ll often see the colorful balloons drift over the vineyards at sunrise. (If you’re an early riser, booking a sunrise hot air balloon ride is an unforgettable way to start your day trip.) Back on the ground, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a winery restaurant or in the garden of a farmhouse café in town.

Temecula also has a burgeoning craft beer scene, if you want to change up the tasting. By late afternoon, consider driving to one of the area’s viewpoints—Lake Skinner or the hills near Callaway Winery—for a last look at the vineyards glowing in the late light. As you head back to LA, you’ll feel pleasantly removed from the city, thanks to Temecula’s country hospitality and the allure of its wine country pace.

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To catch Temecula’s famous hot air balloons, you’ll need to start early. Most balloon rides take off just after dawn when winds are calm.

Solvang – Danish-Style Village with Windmills and Bakeries (2.5 hrs)

Is that Denmark or California? A day trip to Solvang might have you doing a double-take. About 130 miles northwest of LA (roughly 2.5 hours by car, and just over the hills from Santa Barbara), Solvang is a small town that proudly embraces its Danish roots.

Walking its streets feels like you’ve stepped into a European toy town – complete with half-timbered buildings, thatch-like roofs, and even a windmill or four turning slowly in the breeze. Founded by Danish-American settlers in 1911, Solvang has been dubbed the “Danish Capital of America,” and it lives up to the title in the most delightful ways.

Stroll down Mission Drive and Copenhagen Drive to find authentic Danish bakeries selling flaky danishes, almond kringles, and aebleskiver (powdered sugar-dusted pancake balls served with jam). You’ll also pass statues of Hans Christian Andersen and a little replica of Copenhagen’s famous Little Mermaid statue, nodding to the town’s cultural heritage.

Explore shops brimming with Scandinavian imports—from porcelain and cuckoo clocks to Christmas ornaments—and perhaps sample some imported licorice candy. Solvang isn’t all about Denmark, though; it’s set in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley wine country.

Tasting rooms in the village pour local Pinot Noirs and Syrahs, or you can detour to a nearby vineyard for a quick tasting with vineyard views. History enthusiasts can visit Mission Santa Inés on the edge of town, a beautifully preserved 1804 Spanish mission that links back to California’s early days.

Everything in Solvang invites you to slow down and savor the simple pleasures—maybe because Solvang itself means “sunny field” in Danish, and the town indeed basks in pleasant weather and a sunny disposition. By the time you’ve indulged in a few pastries, toured the rustic Elverhøj Museum (for insight into Solvang’s Danish founders), and taken a selfie under a windmill, you’ll be utterly charmed by this slice of Denmark in California.

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“Solvang is a fairytale-like city… framed by the Santa Ynez mountains, it celebrates Denmark’s architecture, food, and culture. Walking around feels like you’ve stepped into a Scandinavian film set.”

San Juan Capistrano – Mission History and Small-Town Charm (1 hr)

Travel one hour south to Orange County and step back in time in San Juan Capistrano, a quaint town known for its beautiful mission and Old California ambiance. The jewel of the town is Mission San Juan Capistrano, founded in 1776 and often called the “Jewel of the Missions” for its graceful architecture and lush gardens.

Visiting the mission, you’ll see the famed Great Stone Church ruins (partially destroyed by an earthquake in 1812), the still-active chapel (the oldest building in California in continuous use), and flower-filled courtyards with tinkling fountains. Each spring, the mission is famous for the Return of the Swallows celebration, when migrating swallows famously come back to nest (around March 19th) – a tradition over a century old.

After exploring this birthplace of Orange County history , wander across the train tracks to the Los Rios Historic District. Here, on the oldest continually inhabited street in California, you’ll find a row of adobe and wood-frame houses, some dating to the 1790s, now repurposed as trendy cafés, tea houses, and boutiques. It’s a perfect place to lunch – perhaps at a patio table under the trees, sipping lemonade and imagining the bygone days.

Kids (and kids at heart) will enjoy the small petting zoo (Zoomars) in the district, and everyone can appreciate the butterflies and blooms in Los Rios Park. Before heading back, take a peek in the San Juan Capistrano Depot—built in 1894, this old train station is a beauty that now houses a vintage steakhouse and exhibits local antiques. San Juan Capistrano’s blend of Spanish-Californian history and cozy small-town charm make it a satisfying day trip that’s as educational as it is relaxing.

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Skip the freeway traffic and take the train to San Juan Capistrano if you can. Both Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner and the Metrolink regional train stop at San Juan Capistrano, and the station is just a short walk.

Mount Baldy – Quick Mountain Escape for Hiking or Snow (1 hr)

One hour northeast of Los Angeles, Mount Baldy offers a complete change of scenery: from city sprawl to mountain tall. Mount Baldy (officially Mount San Antonio) is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains and LA County at 10,064 feet.

A drive up to the Mount Baldy Village brings you into an alpine world of pine forests, crisp air, and seasonal delights. In summer, day trippers come for cooler temperatures and the chance to hike among evergreen trees with views back toward the LA basin. You don’t have to summit the peak to enjoy Baldy’s trails; a popular moderate hike is to San Antonio Falls, a short 1.5-mile round trip to a refreshing waterfall.

For those seeking big views without the legwork, the Mt. Baldy Ski Lift operates a scenic chairlift ride (weekends in summer and winter) up to Top of the Notch, where a restaurant and sweeping vistas await at 7,800 feet. Have lunch with a 360° view of the mountains and valleys—it’s hard to believe the metropolis lies just below the haze.

In winter, Mount Baldy transforms into a snowy playground. Snow may dust the upper elevations as early as November and as late as April. The Mt. Baldy Ski Area is beloved by locals for skiing and snowboarding; it’s rustic and less crowded than Big Bear resorts, but offers the thrill of schussing down slopes within sight of the city skyline on a clear day.

Even if you’re not into skiing, families often drive up just to let the kids play in snow, make a snowman, or sled in designated areas. Whenever you visit, dress in layers—mountain weather can be unpredictable, and it’s often much cooler than LA (sometimes 30°F colder up top). Mount Baldy provides that quick dose of mountain therapy that so many Angelenos crave, whether you’re conquering a trail or just savoring the pine-scented breeze.

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Weather in the mountains can change fast. In winter or early spring, check road conditions (Caltrans) before you go, and carry tire chains if there’s any chance of snow or ice on Mount Baldy Road.

Travel Planning and Tips for LA Day Trips

Planning a day trip out of Los Angeles involves a bit of strategy – mostly to beat the traffic and maximize your fun. First, timing is key. If you’re driving, consider when to leave: on weekdays, avoid the morning rush hour crush by departing after 9 AM (unless you’re headed far out before dawn).

On weekends, popular routes can still get busy by mid-morning, so an early start (7–8 AM) can buy you smoother sailing and a head start on the day. For the return, be mindful of that classic Sunday traffic jam—when everyone comes back into the city Sunday late afternoon.

Always check return traffic conditions – for example, aim to leave your destination before 6 p.m. on Sundays to beat the heaviest flow back into LA. If you can return later at night, you might have the freeways mostly to yourself.

Choosing between a rental car or a guided tour depends on your comfort and plans. Having a car offers maximum freedom: Southern California is best explored on your own schedule, and many of these day trip spots (mountain trails, remote desert parks, quiet wineries) are easiest reached with a car. If you’re visiting and don’t have wheels, renting a car for the day is often worth it.

However, for certain excursions you might consider tours: wine tasting in Temecula or Santa Barbara’s wine country is more relaxing with a driver, and some desert or national park trips offer guided options (with knowledgeable commentary and no navigation worries).

Also, keep in mind the train possibilities: as mentioned, San Juan Capistrano and Santa Barbara are both reachable via Amtrak, and even San Diego (not in this list, but a common day trip) is an option by train from LA’s Union Station.

Pack smart to enjoy a full day out. Many of these destinations involve outdoor activities, so bring water bottles, sunscreen, a hat, and layers of clothing. In Southern California, a chilly morning can turn into a hot afternoon and then a cool evening, especially by the coast or in the mountains.

Wear comfortable shoes (you never know when a stroll might turn into a short hike). Don’t forget sunglasses and a portable phone charger (with all the photos you’ll be taking, you don’t want a dead battery when navigating back).

Snacks in the car are a good idea, especially if you’re tackling a longer drive or heading to places with limited dining (like Joshua Tree). And if you’re taking the ferry to Catalina or a boat tour for whale watching, a light jacket is wise even in summer—the ocean breeze can be brisk.

Finally, remain flexible and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Part of the magic of LA day trips is the feeling of freedom—the ability to wake up and decide “mountains or beach today?” and then make it happen.

Soak in the scenery on the road: the Pacific Coast Highway’s curves, the desert’s wide horizons, the alpine twist of Angeles Crest Highway. Sometimes the best travel moments come from unplanned detours—an obscure fruit stand, a scenic overlook, a friendly chat with a local. Plan well, but leave room for spontaneity.

Sample Day Trip Routes

Sometimes you want to pack a lot into one epic day. Here are a few thematic day trip itineraries combining multiple stops – perfect if you’re up for a little extra driving and a lot of adventure.

  • Coastal Daydreams: Santa Monica → Malibu → Zuma Beach. Start your morning in Santa Monica, enjoying the classic Pier and maybe a ride on the Ferris wheel or a bike ride on the beach path. From there, cruise up the Pacific Coast Highway into Malibu (about 30 minutes along the scenic coast).

    In Malibu, have lunch with an ocean view – perhaps at the Malibu Pier or a beach café – and explore a bit, whether it’s window-shopping at Malibu Country Mart or a short hike to Point Dume for sweeping sea vistas. Continue up PCH to Zuma Beach (another 20 minutes) for a relaxed afternoon of sunbathing or surfing at one of SoCal’s widest, most beautiful beaches.

    As evening approaches, consider stopping at El Matador State Beach on your way back toward LA to catch a golden sunset amid its photogenic sea stacks. This route gives you a taste of LA’s quintessential beach life from city to mellow surf town to unspoiled shoreline, all in one day.

  • Desert Escape: Palm Springs → Joshua Tree National Park. If you’re craving wide-open spaces, this combo delivers. Leave LA early (it’s a ~2 hour drive to Palm Springs). Spend the morning in Palm Springs exploring the mid-century modern architecture on a self-drive tour or visiting a spot like the Palm Springs Art Museum for a bit of culture.

    Late morning, take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up Mt. San Jacinto if you want a literal overview of the desert (allow ~2 hours for the round-trip and exploration at the top). Have a quick lunch – maybe tacos or the city’s famous date shake – then drive north about 1 hour to Joshua Tree National Park (enter via the West Entrance near Joshua Tree town).

    Plan to sightsee in the park in the afternoon: you can comfortably do a loop that includes Hidden Valley, Skull Rock, and Keys View in a few hours. In late afternoon, find a nice spot (Hidden Valley or Quail Springs picnic area) to soak up the unique desert calm as shadows lengthen on the boulders. As the sun sets, Joshua Tree’s sky comes alive with stars; if you can linger into early evening, a bit of stargazing is the perfect capstone.

    From Joshua Tree (exit at Joshua Tree town or Twentynine Palms), it’s about 2.5 hours back to LA. It’s a long day, but you’ll have experienced the stylish oasis of Palm Springs and the wild beauty of the desert in one go – a true Southern California contrast.

  • Wine and Culture Loop: Temecula → San Juan Capistrano. This route takes you south and inland for wine and history, then back up through the coast. Begin by driving to Temecula Valley in the morning (1.5 hours). Reward yourself with a late breakfast or early wine tasting in Old Town Temecula – the bakery cafes and artisanal shops there are a charming start.

    Spend midday visiting one or two wineries just outside town; stroll the vineyards, sip some regional wines, and maybe enjoy a vineyard picnic. After you’ve had your fill, drive west toward the coast about an hour to San Juan Capistrano. Aim to arrive by mid-afternoon when the light is beautiful on the mission’s adobe walls.

    Tour Mission San Juan Capistrano (allow at least an hour to appreciate the gardens, ruins, and museum) and wander the historic Los Rios district across the street. You can grab an early dinner here – there are a few restaurants in century-old buildings that offer a quaint dining experience. As the sun starts to set, take a short 10-minute drive out to Dana Point or San Clemente’s coast for a quick ocean view to bookend your day (if time permits).

    Then head north on the I-5 back to Los Angeles (about 1 to 1.5 hours, traffic depending). In one day, you’ll have tasted the fruits of Southern California’s wine country and walked through the pages of California history, a satisfying blend of indulgence and insight.

The Takeaway

Los Angeles is more than a city; it’s the perfect starting point for discovering California’s most diverse landscapes. In a single day, you can watch the waves in Malibu, wander through the desert in Joshua Tree, or sail toward Catalina Island as the sun sets. This freedom to shift from city streets to open nature is part of what makes LA so special.

The areas surrounding Los Angeles help define its character just as much as its skyline and studios. A short drive takes you from urban landmarks to quiet trails, mountain views, or ocean cliffs. Each trip offers a new perspective on Southern California and a reminder of how close adventure always is.

When you’ve explored the city’s attractions, take time to go beyond them. These day trips aren’t side excursions but part of the larger Los Angeles experience. Every road leading out of the city adds a new chapter to your story.

FAQ

Q1: What are the closest beach day trips to LA?
A: Malibu (≈45 min) and Laguna Beach (≈1.5 hrs) for coves, tide pools, and cliff walks.

Q2: Can I visit Santa Barbara as a day trip?
A: Yes—plan ≈2 hrs each way. Focus on State St., the Courthouse tower, Mission SB, and the Funk Zone.

Q3: When is the best time for Palm Springs?
A: Fall–spring for comfortable temps. Summer often exceeds 100°F.

Q4: Is Joshua Tree doable in one day?
A: Yes. Enter via West Entrance, see Hidden Valley, Skull Rock, Keys View. Bring water and food.

Q5: Do I need a car for Catalina Island?
A: No. Take a 1-hr ferry to Avalon. Walk, rent a bike/golf cart, or book tours.

Q6: Where can I pair wine tasting with a scenic town?
A: Temecula (Old Town + wineries) or Santa Barbara (Funk Zone + nearby vineyards).

Q7: Easiest mountain escape from LA?
A: Mount Baldy (≈1 hr) for short hikes and chairlift views; Big Bear (≈2 hrs) for lake activities or winter snow.

Q8: How do I avoid traffic on popular routes?
A: Leave by 7–8 a.m.; return after 8 p.m. or before 4 p.m. on Sundays. Use weekday trips when possible.

Q9: What should I pack for desert/mountain trips?
A: Extra water, snacks, sun protection, layers. In winter, check road rules and carry tire chains.

Q10: Are there train options for day trips?
A: Yes—San Juan Capistrano and Santa Barbara via Amtrak; walkable from stations.

Q11: Any kid-friendly standouts?
A: Malibu tide pools, Catalina’s glass-bottom boat/snorkel, Big Bear Alpine Zoo, Solvang bakeries and windmills.

Q12: Can I combine Palm Springs and Joshua Tree in one day?
A: Yes with an early start: morning in Palm Springs, afternoon loop in Joshua Tree, sunset/stargazing, late return.