11 Amazing Southern California Day Trips That Are Worth The Drive
Southern California has all the hallmarks of an unforgettable day trip, blending fine weather, diverse landscapes, and a vibrant cultural scene. From beaches to deserts and mountains, opportunities abound to get on the open road and discover hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and everything in between. Whether craving relaxation by the sea, rousing outdoor adventures, or authentic cultural encounters, SoCal delivers all the more that may come to mind. With its endless sunshine and ever-changing scenery, every destination is an experience.
A day trip allows one to explore artsy enclaves, hike rugged canyons, wander historic missions, and savor sumptuous local cuisine amid welcoming communities. Whenever you need a reprieve from the flurry of urban hubs like Los Angeles, here are amazing Southern California day trips worth the drive.
Avalon
An hour-long ferry ride from Long Beach brings vacationers to this idyllic gem on Santa Catalina Island, which charms with its tranquil scenery and majestic water views. Avalon allows you to let loose and enjoy the scenery, especially when standing at the Buena Vista Point Scenic Overlook. Tourists come here for 360-degree views of the city and its contrasting landscapes. The Catalina Museum for Art and History preserves more than 7,000 years of human history in the region by exhibiting a vast array of related archives.
Avalon is also known for its delicious seafood culture, and newcomers can stop by the Lobster Trap to sample a variety of options, including shrimp stuffing. Finally, those who don't mind a thrill can take the Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour for an adrenaline-filled aerial excursion.
Laguna Beach
This paradisiacal town lies less than 90 minutes south of Los Angeles, making for a lovely escape for those seeking a change of scenery. Laguna Beach is known for its pristine beaches, hidden coves, and art galleries, calling for a day trip to slow down and let loose. Heisler Park is one of the many open spaces in Laguna Beach, boasting unique ocean views, bold sculptures, and picnic benches. A picturesque boardwalk leads to the sandy shores of Main Beach, whose gentle waves are perfect for swimming and surfing.
The Laguna Playhouse stages a magnificent lineup of stage performances by professional artists, beckoning enthusiasts and connoisseurs with musicals, dramas, operas, and more. The town is also known for the Laguna Art Museum, which is one of the oldest cultural centers in the region and displays 3,000 works of art.
Ojai
Ojai is a close-knit community at the base of the Topatopa Mountains that takes pride in its artsy personality, beautiful history, and tasty wines. A two-hour-long drive from Los Angeles gets you to this lovely destination, whose old town district is always buzzing with activity. The weekly Ojai Certified Farmers Market gives newcomers a sense of the warmth associated with the townspeople. Several art galleries throughout the corridor keep the locals connected with the arts. Prominent among them is the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts, where people come to see exhibitions, watch performances, and attend workshops.
Meanwhile, visitors can get a vivid perspective of the region's history at the Ojai Valley Museum. Housed inside a former Catholic mission, the museum exhibits photographs, art, and memorabilia chronicling centuries of Ojai existence. Lastly, the trip is incomplete without sampling Ojai's fine wines, which you can access at Majestic Oak Vineyard and Wine Tasting.
Carpinteria
Carpinteria's city slogan is "World's Safest Beach," an allusion to stunning shoreline and surfing beaches. It is an excellent day trip from Santa Clarita, requiring an hour's drive west of the big city. The journey favors those who love the outdoors, with a chance for lazy strolls in the isolated coastal wilderness of Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve. This features a mix of cliffs, bluffs, and sandy beaches with exquisite ocean views. The Carpinteria State Beach boasts a mile-long waterfront that attracts swimmers, surfers, fishermen, and campers.
Carpinteria shares its backstory at the Carpinteria Valley Museum. A vast catalog of memorabilia, archives, and relics from around the community through the years is exhibited inside. Finally, a pint of locally crafted beer at the Island Brewing Company is an excellent way to unwind while enjoying the relaxed town atmosphere.
Malibu
Malibu is the perfect escape for those who want an easygoing getaway to the California coast, sitting less than an hour west of Los Angeles. It offers the perfect mix of stunning beaches, a vibrant art scene, and luxurious shopping opportunities. Many tourists love to gather at El Matador State Beach, where a long stretch of smooth sands, rugged rocks, and hidden sea caves provides the perfect spot to unwind. Meanwhile, the Malibu Pier rewards tourists with some of the best ocean views, with many coming here to enjoy the scenery or fish.
A rare look into history draws first-timers to the Adamson House Museum. This stately Spanish Colonial Revival mansion was constructed in 1929 and invites informative tours, exploring period artifacts. Also, there are numerous waterfront diners where you can go for a hearty meal, including Paradise Cove Beach Cafe.
Palm Springs
The California desert harbors a chain of beautiful oases like Palm Springs, which is only an hour's drive from the bustling scene in San Bernardino. Surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, this vibrant community entices guests with its rich art scene and colorful historical heritage. You will often find people gathering inside the Palm Springs Art Museum to examine its world-class art collection, featuring Native American and European art. Elsewhere, the Palm Springs Air Museum showcases an assemblage of combat planes used in the Korean War, World War 2, and other American conflicts.
Numerous trails lead hikers into the untamed desert surrounding Palm Springs, and you can take the moderate trek to the Indian Canyons to discover a stunning oasis. Alternatively, a tour of Moorten Botanical Garden reveals a delightful collection of desert plant species.
Borrego Springs
Borrego Springs is among the best Southern California day trips that are worth the drive for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The sleepy town sits isolated in the middle of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, less than two hours from San Diego, and invites tourists to discover its dry landscapes and experience its rich arts. Galleta Meadows stun newcomers with its life-size display of metallic sculptures across a quirky outdoor gallery. Meanwhile, there are more intimate creations by local artists that can be admired inside the Borrego Art Institute.
Hikers and trekkers can look forward to adventurous opportunities in the vast desert wilderness around Borrego Springs. Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead is an excellent escape, a 3-mile round trip to an oasis in the desert with green palms and local wildlife.
Big Bear Lake
This adorable SoCal community stands out for its rugged natural allure, framed by picturesque mountains, glistening lakes, and dense forests. A day trip from San Bernardino takes about one and a half hours but guarantees endless outdoor opportunities; you can hop on a bike for a jaunt along the Alpine Pedal Path Trail. This 5-mile round trip cuts through isolated woodlands and rewards cyclists with spell-binding mountain views. At Boulder Bay Park, you can access the calm waters of Big Bear Lake for a paddling excursion or sit on the shores for an uninterrupted picnic to soak in the sights.
Big Bear Lake also promises rare encounters with adorable wildlife at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo. The sanctuary houses almost 80 species of animals, which you can witness in their natural environment.
Julian
An hour-long drive northwest allows daytrippers to skip the chaotic scene in San Diego for a quieter and less crowded atmosphere in Julian. It is known for its fascinating history, sprawling wilderness areas, and wine-making industry. Its significant role during the California Gold Rush led it to be declared a California Historic Landmark, and newcomers can learn all about its mining heydays at the Julian Pioneer Museum. A visit to Volcan Mountain Winery allows guests to sample tasty local wines in a down-home setting.
There are numerous opportunities for those who want to explore the outdoors, with William Heise County Park offering 900 acres of recreational space for hikers, campers, picnickers, and other adventurers. The same is true for Volcan Mountain County Preserve, which boasts a 2,900-acre playground.
Solvang
Everything seems to move slowly in this idyllic village in the Santa Ynez Valley, home to a welcoming community of Danish immigrants with a beautiful backstory to share. Daytrippers from Santa Clarita endure this two-hour-long drive for the immersive cultural experience, which begins at the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art. This interesting facility exhibits rare archives and relics documenting the town's European heritage. The Solvang Visitor Center is notable for its authentic Danish windmills and provides more information about the region, its past, and what tourists can expect in terms of attractions.
One of the best ways to experience Solvang's culture is through its cuisine, and Olsen's Danish Village Bakery treats newcomers to savory European cookies and other pastries. Lastly, consider a tour of Mission Santa Ines to explore the community's origins, which started around this early 1800s Catholic church.
Coronado
Beaches, ocean views, and artsy experiences bring travelers to this idyllic town along the San Diego Bay, situated just a 10-minute drive from downtown San Diego. Coronado charms with its endless shoreline, which provides sandy beaches like Silver Strand State Beach. This popular public recreational space is a go-to for picnickers, sunbathers, swimmers, and beachcombers looking to let their hair down. Alternatively, you can head to Centennial Park for a quiet picnic in a green space with a cute rose garden and sweeping views of the ocean.
Those who wish to witness Coronado's beauty from the water can charter a vessel at Coronado Ferry Landing for an easygoing cruise on the blue waters surrounding the town. Also, be sure to catch an engaging play or musical by professional performers at Lamb's Players Theatre.
SoCal offers endless opportunities for unforgettable day trips, blending stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and breathtaking nature in the United States. Whether you plan a low-key escape to the beach, a wild expedition into the desert, or a thrilling outdoor adventure, these Southern California day trips that are worth the drive promise something for everyone. From coastal escapes to desert wonders, each trip promises unique memories and beautiful scenery. So pack your bags, hit the road, and explore the amazing diversity Southern California has to offer!
