The 30 Best Day Trips from Los Angeles, California
Exploring Los Angeles unveils a multitude of captivating activities, from touring movie studios to reveling in theme parks, and the enchanting beaches. On top of that, loads of best day trips from Los Angeles are well worth taking if you want to escape the hustle and bustle.
Destinations like Malibu, San Diego, or Santa Barbara await your exploration. With a plethora of options, choosing your preferred Los Angeles day trip is a delightful challenge.
Planning a more extensive vacation, such as a California road trip up to San Francisco? For guidance on what to explore and what to skip, a comprehensive post covering activities from north to south in California serves as an ideal starting point.
Venturing out of Los Angeles to spend a day at beautiful beaches, explore quaint towns, or capture the beauty of desert landscapes beyond LA’s borders is an enticing idea. Be forewarned, as you may find yourself extending your day trip into a weekend getaway once you arrive!
So, I’d love to highlight some of my top picks for the 30 best day trips from Los Angeles. This guide will help you plan your itinerary and ensure you maximize your holiday experience in the city.
Wishing you an incredible time!
The 30 Best Day Trips from Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles comprises more than 80 cities! This article focuses on nearby cities to visit around Los Angeles, most of which are within the greater LA area.
1. Malibu
Travel time from Los Angeles: Approximately 45 minutes
Embark on a beach adventure! Drive north from Los Angeles to explore Malibu, just around 33 miles from LA. Known for its stunning beaches frequented by surfers and lined with celebrity residences, Malibu offers a delightful coastal retreat.
Indulge in delectable dining options, and take a stroll along the charming pier for picturesque moments. Enjoy a refreshing drink or a meal at one of the local eateries. If you choose to extend your day trip from Los Angeles, consider extending your stay at the Surfrider Malibu. This is a charming hotel located just across the beach, boasting a fantastic rooftop bar and restaurant.
Malibu boasts a captivating 27-mile coastline where the alluring waves of the Pacific Ocean beckon surfers. Don’t forget to pack your board or opt to rent one on-site.
If hiking is more your style, explore the winding trails that lead to waterfalls and scenic grassy areas. The Santa Monica National Recreation Area presents around 500 miles of hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
While in Malibu, take your pick from various beaches. Malibu Lagoon State Beach stands out as a prime spot for surfing, while El Matador Beach features enchanting sea caves. For those seeking a vast shoreline, Zuma Beach offers ample space for activities like volleyball near the nets.
2. San Diego
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1 hour 45 minutes by car or 3 hours by train
Known for its abundance of sunshine, San Diego is a coastal city situated just above the Mexican border, celebrated for its fantastic year-round climate.
A visit to one of its pristine beaches is a must during a day trip from Los Angeles. In addition, San Diego draws military history enthusiasts, as it hosts an active naval fleet.
From a distance, you can catch a glimpse of the Naval Base San Diego and explore attractions like the USS Midway Museum and the Maritime Museum of San Diego.
Opting for a one-day trip from Los Angeles to San Diego offers a fantastic opportunity to explore another vibrant city while in LA.
The beach culture and military heritage are standout features of this destination, promising a fulfilling day of exploration.
If you decide to embark on a day trip to San Diego, I suggest skipping the San Diego Zoo. With plenty of opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitats on day trips outside Los Angeles, there’s no need to visit a zoo. For those without a car, convenient day trip options departing from Los Angeles are available.
3. Santa Barbara
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1.5 hours by car or 2.5 by train
Santa Barbara stands out as a distinctive city day trip unlike any other. While it’s easy to assume that every small coastal town blends together in California, Santa Barbara swiftly dispels that notion.
Imbued with rich colonial heritage, the city exudes a strong Spanish influence evident in its iconic architectural style, characterized by white stucco buildings.
Downtown Santa Barbara stands as one of the most impressive and picturesque destinations you can explore from LA.
Beyond its aesthetic charm and signature white buildings with red-tiled roofs, Santa Barbara boasts a wealth of attractions.
Delve into the city’s history by visiting the Santa Barbara County Courthouse or the Old Mission Santa Barbara. Both provide insights into the religious aspects of Spanish colonization.
Teeming with culture and captivating stories, Santa Barbara is a destination not to be missed. Its profound sense of identity and cultural significance make it one of the best locations to visit on an Amtrak day trip from Los Angeles.
4. Santa Catalina Island
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1 hour by ferry from Long Beach
Situated 22 miles off the California coast, Santa Catalina Island exists in a secluded realm.
This picturesque island serves as a tranquil haven for birds and wildlife, both on land and in the surrounding waters.
Renowned for its well-preserved marine life, Santa Catalina Island is a favored destination for scuba diving enthusiasts.
While it may have been a filming location for underwater scenes in the original 1975 Jaws film, rest assured, the island harbors popular wildlife species like elephant seals, bison, and blue whales that captivate tourists.
When seeking respite from the bustling city center and its coastline, Santa Catalina Island beckons. Accessible via fast ferries departing from Long Beach and Dana Point, you can reach this island paradise in just an hour. With up to 30 ferries operating daily, organizing a day trip from Los Angeles is a breeze.
Explore Santa Catalina Island by embarking on hiking adventures, snorkeling excursions, or scuba diving expeditions to spot a diverse array of animals.
5. Channel Islands National Park
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1.5 hours by car or 1 hour 45 minutes by public transport to the visitor center, plus an additional hour or two for the ferry
Channel Islands National Park encompasses five exquisite islands located just off the coast of California.
These islands are meticulously preserved and serve as wildlife sanctuaries. This fact earns them the moniker “Californian ‘Galapagos'” due to the vast array of animals you can witness on sightseeing expeditions.
The Channel Islands consist of Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara.
For those seeking isolation amidst breathtaking natural beauty, these dramatic islands present one of the most remarkable day trips from Los Angeles.
Prepare to encounter endemic skunks, sea lions, and even humpback whales during your visit. The islands offer an array of stunning hiking trails, including the renowned Inspiration Point on Anacapa Island.
The landscape is a sight to behold, featuring craggy emerald-green ridges reminiscent of Hawaii and coastlines adorned with sea caves and secluded coves.
Access to the Channel Islands is facilitated by round-trip day-ticket ferries. The duration of the ferry ride varies depending on the island you choose to visit, with Anacapa and Santa Cruz being the closest islands, just an hour’s ferry ride from the mainland coastline.
6. Joshua Tree National Park
Travel time from Los Angeles: Just under three hours by car
Located approximately 130 miles southeast of LA, Joshua Tree National Park is a captivating destination. Beyond its renowned rock climbing opportunities, the park offers a wealth of activities and natural wonders waiting to be explored.
The park’s landscape is truly extraordinary, reminiscent of scenes from Dr. Seuss books—featuring spiky Joshua trees scattered amidst towering rock formations.
A drive through the park can be completed in under an hour. I recommend spending a full day (or even camping overnight) to fully immerse yourself in activities like hiking, biking and walks along the myriad of trails.
For hiking enthusiasts, the strenuous 49 Palms Oasis trail is a must-visit. This three-mile trail leads you through a picturesque oasis of palm trees with glimpses of the water. During summer visits, marvel at the vibrant display of wildflowers in full bloom. Remember to carry ample water for hydration.
Prepare to be amazed by the desert landscape, thrill your inner photographer with stunning vistas, and satisfy your adventurous spirit with a range of activities.
Take a ghost town stroll and browse cactus souvenirs for a unique experience.
Stay until dusk in Joshua Tree for an enchanting stargazing session, or plan an overnight camping adventure to fully appreciate the park’s serene nighttime ambiance.
If time allows for only a day trip, don’t miss a walk to the Cottonwood Spring oasis. This is where you might catch sight of hummingbirds and Gambel’s Quail in their natural habitat.
For more picturesque trails, venture to the Hidden Valley trail—a manageable one-mile loop suitable for family-friendly excursions. Joshua Tree National Park boasts excellent campgrounds (reservation required). Here you’ll find opportunities for horseback riding, biking, and rock climbing, with over 8,000 climbing routes to explore.
7. Newport Beach
Travel time from Los Angeles: 43 minutes by car or 2 hours by train
Newport Beach stands as a sanctuary of sandy beaches accompanied by a bustling, vibrant harbor.
Nestled south of LA, this coastal city offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of LA.
Situated in the heart of Orange County, known for its theme parks and seaside attractions, Newport Beach boasts the Balboa Pier and Fun Zone. The latter is an iconic locale featuring a charming, traditional amusement park complete with a Ferris wheel.
With its lively ambiance, Newport Beach is the ideal destination for a carefree and enjoyable experience.
As a noteworthy point of interest, Newport Beach is a prime location for whale-watching enthusiasts, making it a must-visit for wildlife aficionados.
Serving as one of the few year-round whale-watching destinations in the United States, Newport Beach offers unparalleled opportunities to witness whale migrations throughout the year. Embark on one of the top-rated day trips from Los Angeles for an unforgettable experience.
8. Laguna Beach
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1 hour by car and 2 hours 20 minutes by train
Laguna Beach offers a stark contrast within Orange County compared to the lively and energetic vibe of Newport Beach.
Known for its artistic flair and relaxed ambiance, Laguna Beach draws in surfers, artists, and day-trippers from Los Angeles seeking a more creative environment.
The town is adorned with art galleries, sandy beaches like the renowned surf spot Aliso Beach Park, and picturesque boardwalks lining Main Beach.
With an annual influx of six million visitors, Laguna Beach’s tranquil atmosphere effortlessly captivates all who visit, making it a haven for those looking to unwind or tap into their artistic side. If tranquility and artistic inspiration are what you seek, Laguna Beach is the perfect day trip destination.
Easily accessible by car from Los Angeles, I recommend considering a rental car for a convenient journey to Laguna Beach.
9. Lake Arrowhead
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1.5 to 2 hours
Nestled in the mountainous terrain of the San Bernardino National Forest, the quaint resort town of Lake Arrowhead proudly boasts the title of ‘the Alps of Southern California.’
Winding roads meander their way up the mountain, offering scenic vistas where early morning mist and clouds gracefully envelop the landscape below.
The lake itself remains private, accessible solely to property owners and members of local beach clubs. However, visitors can catch a glimpse of this exclusive feature by embarking on the steamboat-styled vessel, the Arrowhead Queen. Alternatively, there are numerous activities to partake in while exploring the charms of Lake Arrowhead.
If the perpetual summer of Los Angeles has you yearning for a change in seasons, a visit to Arrowhead in autumn promises a delightful experience filled with the vibrant hues of fall foliage.
10. Balboa Island
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1 hour by car or 2 hours 40 minutes by public transport
Balboa Island is a charming gem located just off the coast of Newport Beach. While many tend to group Newport Beach and Balboa Island together, I believe this picturesque island possesses such distinctive character that it warrants a separate day trip.
Accessible via an overwater bridge or ferry, Balboa Island exudes a lively and activity-centric atmosphere. It offers a slightly more relaxed pace compared to the mainland.
A visit to the Balboa Island Museum is highly recommended, with complimentary entry for all visitors. This man-made island boasts a fascinating history and vibrant community waiting to be explored.
Notably, it is home to two iconic dessert recipes—the Balboa Bar and Frozen Banana—both of which have been cherished for over 75 years. Embrace the island’s beaches, museums, and uniquely individualistic culinary scene for a delightful experience.
Convenient access by car or public transportation makes Balboa Island an easy day trip from Los Angeles.
11. Solvang and Buellton
Travel time from Los Angeles: 2 hours 30 minutes by car
Immerse yourself in a leisurely getaway to Solvang, a charming Danish village adorned with decorative windmills. Here, time seems to drift away effortlessly. Walking through the scenic streets of this quaint town in central California is an experience brimming with charm. A day trip to Solvang from Los Angeles promises a memorable experience.
Solvang sister city, Buellton, captures the imagination of trendy hipsters with its themed RV parks and delightfully offbeat attractions, including the renowned title of ‘Home of Pea Soup.’
Wine enthusiasts can indulge in tastings and tours at vineyards scattered throughout the surrounding area.
12. Big Bear Lake
Travel time from Los Angeles: 2 hours by car and 4 hours by public transport
Big Bear Lake serves as an idyllic lakeside retreat, perfect for a weekend escape. However, even if you only have a day to spare, this destination can still offer a fulfilling experience.
Renowned for its watersports, Big Bear Lake presents a plethora of activities—from serene paddle-boarding sessions to thrilling wakeboarding adventures.
During the spring to autumn months, the lake stands out as a premier watersports destination, while in winter, it transforms into a remarkable ski haven.
Surrounding the picturesque lake are woodland trails, with Castle Rock Trail being a top choice for a day trip from Los Angeles.
This trail leads to a scenic rocky outcrop boasting breathtaking views of Big Bear Lake, offering a dreamy sunset backdrop to conclude your day.
The easiest way to reach Big Bear Lake is by car, a convenient two-hour drive from LA. Certainly, it is technically feasible to access the lake via public transport in four hours. However, this option involves multiple forms of transportation and may not be the most efficient use of your time.
Given the lack of direct train or bus routes, driving remains the recommended choice to maximize your time enjoying watersports or skiing during the winter.
13. San Gabriel Mountains
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1 hour by car
To embark on this day trip from Los Angeles, a car is essential. The journey is well worth it, as the San Gabriel Mountains offer a breathtaking experience.
Known for their rugged and picturesque peaks, these mountains were beloved by naturalist John Muir, who marveled at their challenging wilderness.
Visually striking, the San Gabriel Mountains boast diverse landscapes, featuring lush forests of alder, maple, and pine at lower elevations, gradually ascending to snow-capped summits.
Among them, Mount San Antonio stands as the tallest peak. It offers hikers a rewarding 7-9 hour trek to the summit during snow-free months, unveiling stunning panoramic views.
The San Gabriel Mountains are a haven for mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts, showcasing exhilarating routes and challenging trails that rival any theme park experience.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush surrounded by nature’s beauty, San Gabriel Mountains provide an unforgettable day trip from Los Angeles.
14. San Juan Capistrano
Travel time from Los Angeles: 56 minutes by car or 1 hour 25 minutes by train
Nestled in beauty and history, San Juan Capistrano stands as a charming city anchored around the iconic Mission San Juan Capistrano.
The city showcases the picturesque Los Rios Historic District, a treasure trove of 18th-19th-century architecture reflecting the region’s Spanish heritage.
Established in 1776, Mission San Juan Capistrano has evolved into a renowned museum. It draws in around 300,000 visitors annually, many of whom embark on day trips from Los Angeles.
The museum houses religious and historical artifacts, including paintings and a revered bell rung daily in honor of Saint Junipero Serra.
Whether your interests lean towards religious history or not, San Juan Capistrano serves as a cultural hub for a fulfilling day trip from Los Angeles.
Delve into the city’s rich history and heritage on a guided tour to truly appreciate its allure.
15. Huntington Beach
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1 hour by car or 2 hours by public transport
Huntington Beach is a must-visit destination for surfers exploring LA. Renowned in the surfing realm, the city boasts the expansive 121-acre Huntington State Beach, a haven for wave riders.
Whether you decide to hit the water at Huntington State Beach or prefer a leisurely stroll along the 8.5-mile paved trail, you’re in for a treat while watching surfers in action.
Surfing enthusiasts will find more attractions to delight in, including the International Surfing Museum, the impressive 42-foot World’s Largest Surfboard, and the revered Surfing Walk of Fame.
The museum showcases a range of artifacts, from classic longboards to memorabilia celebrating iconic surfers like Duke Kahanamoku. For those captivated by surf culture, this museum stands out as a premier attraction in Huntington Beach.
Undoubtedly, Huntington Beach proves to be an exceptional day trip from Los Angeles for surf enthusiasts.
This vibrant surf city is accessible by car with just a 1-hour drive. Or through public transport via the Metrolink Orange County Line to Buena Park followed by the 29 bus to Huntington-Pacific Coast.
16. Palm Springs
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1 hour and 40 minutes by car or 2 hours 45 minutes by public transport
Palm Springs stands as an unmistakable icon, emerging from the Sonoran Desert with its enchanting palm trees, rejuvenating hot springs, and thriving art scene. This vibrant city offers an effortless day trip from Los Angeles.
A scenic drive will take you through the San Bernardino National Forest and Mount San Jacinto State Park, both worthy detours en route to Palm Springs.
Within Palm Springs itself, you can explore a range of attractions:
- The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway;
- Art galleries like the Palm Springs Art Museum;
- The soothing hot springs are located in the Aqua Caliente Indian Reservation.
Serving as a gateway to the Sonoran Desert, Palm Springs presents a myriad of activities, making it an ideal choice for a day trip from Los Angeles.
A notable mention: Palm Springs is conveniently close to Coachella. If your visit falls in mid-to-late April, consider securing tickets for this renowned event. Otherwise, revel in the city’s array of attractions that adorn its outskirts.
17. Crescent Bay Beach
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1 hour by car or nearly 3 hours by public transport
Nestled just south of LA, Crescent Bay Beach emerges as a charming coastal gem framed by rocky cliffs.
This serene beach is among the shortest day trips from Los Angeles. It is celebrated for its tranquil ambiance, captivating tide pools, and the occasional delight of spotting passing dolphins.
Crescent Bay Beach beckons visitors seeking peace and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for a serene beach day trip from Los Angeles.
While technically part of the Laguna Beach neighborhood, Crescent Bay Beach boasts a distinctive character that sets it apart.
A visit to this beach can be seamlessly combined with explorations of the vibrant art galleries and creative heart of Laguna Beach or even an excursion to Crystal Cove State Park.
For picturesque beach vistas, make your way to Crescent Bay Point Park situated at the northern end of the beach. It offers the perfect backdrop for a beach-view photoshoot. After basking in the sands, venture to Crescent Bay Point Park to soak in the stunning coastal views.
18. San Bernardino National Forest
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1 hour by car
San Bernardino National Forest indisputably stands out as one of the prime wildlife destinations for day trips from Los Angeles.
Encompassing the majestic San Bernardino Mountains, the forest is adorned with dense alpine forests, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to embark on hiking adventures.
Covering a sprawling expanse of over 660,000 acres, visitors are encouraged to narrow down their trail and activity preferences before their journey.
During seasons outside of winter, hiking and horseback riding take center stage as the forest’s key attractions.
San Bernardino National Forest caters to thrill-seekers with opportunities for extreme adventures, including campgrounds that accommodate overnight stays for horses on multi-day rides.
However, winter transforms the landscape, ushering in a realm of snow-themed activities such as snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing.
Located just an hour’s drive from LA, a day trip to San Bernardino National Forest may lead you through scenic routes like Whittier Narrows Natural Area or the Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park. Both offer refreshing pit stops midway through your drive.
19. Temecula
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
The picturesque rolling hills of Temecula offer a charming setting for a romantic day trip from Los Angeles. Enhance your wine-tasting experience by traveling to vineyards in a private sidecar or vintage trolley, creating unforgettable memories with your beloved one.
Temecula is renowned for its Syrah wines and the unique Sangiovese grape variety, inviting you to delve into the wine-tasting offerings at each winery, typically priced at around $20 per session. Opt for a mesmerizing vineyard and wine-tasting adventure commencing directly from LA.
Experience one of Temecula’s signature attractions with a hot air balloon ride, setting off early in the morning to enjoy the cool, tranquil air and kick-start your day on a magical note.
To wrap up your Temecula escapade, savor the flavors of pepper-crusted carpaccio at The Gambling Cowboy. This is a steakhouse featuring a third-floor balcony that overlooks the quaint Old Town Temecula, adding a touch of elegance to your day trip from Los Angeles.
20. Malibu Lagoon State Beach
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1 hour by car or 2.5 hours by public transport (buses)
Malibu exudes a laid-back charm that sets it apart from the bustling city of LA.
Nestled within Malibu, the Malibu Lagoon State Beach spans a breathtaking 110 acres of protected beach and coastal park. It offers a serene haven that epitomizes the essence of Malibu relaxation.
Embraced by the surfing community, this beach destination allows you to catch some waves or simply bask in the beauty of fellow surfers from the sandy shores.
Don’t forget your binoculars. The expansive estuary at Malibu Lagoon State Beach serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds.
Whether you choose to explore independently or opt for a guided tour, the beach offers a wealth of possibilities to suit your preferences.
Conveniently located near Malibu’s city center, the state beach harmonizes perfectly with a visit to the nearby Zuma Beach. To make the most of your time and explore both beaches seamlessly, consider renting a car for added convenience.
21. Zuma Beach
Travel time from Los Angeles: 50 minutes by car or 2 hours 20 minutes by public transport
Who can forget Zuma Beach? Nestled in Malibu, this renowned beach boasts a 1.8-mile stretch of sand and surf, attracting surfers and sunbathers alike.
With the presence of lifeguards, Zuma Beach offers a crucial safety feature, allowing visitors to relish the rural ambiance and expansive sands while having the assurance of safety surveillance in case of any emergencies.
Regarded as one of the top day trips from Los Angeles for a beach outing, Zuma Beach promises a memorable experience.
Make sure to explore nearby El Matador State Beach and Malibu Lagoon State Beach if you have the opportunity.
22. El Matador Beach
Travel time from Los Angeles: 50 minutes by car
Experience the tranquil rhythm of ocean waves caressing sandy shores on those days when you need a moment of serenity.
El Matador Beach is nestled below cliffs, comprising three small beaches that become secluded during high tide.
Situated near Malibu, this beach serves as an idyllic spot for a day of beach exploration and effortlessly pairs with other attractions in Malibu.
With striking rock formations adorning its sands, from stacks to natural arches, El Matador Beach offers a picturesque coastal escape for those seeking a beach with distinctive natural features.
23. Malibu Creek State Park
Travel time from Los Angeles: 50 minutes by car
Situated a mere 25 miles from Downtown LA, Malibu Creek State Park offers a convenient escape ideal for any packed schedule.
Encompassing over 8,000 acres, this park provides the perfect setting for activities such as horseback riding, rock climbing, and hiking.
The park’s landscape might seem familiar, as it has been featured in numerous Hollywood movies, including the original Planet of the Apes.
With its blend of volcanic rock gorges and serene pools, Malibu Creek State Park emerges as one of the most beautiful and accessible spots to immerse oneself in nature near Los Angeles.
Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, this state park is just a short drive away from the celebrity hub of Calabasas.
Embarking on a day trip to Malibu Creek allows you to revel in its classic rock pools and scenic surroundings.
For a seamless journey to Malibu Creek, a 50-minute drive from LA by car is recommended. Opting for public transportation can be more complex, requiring around 2.5 hours with multiple transfers.
24. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
Travel time from Los Angeles: 40 minutes by car
The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area stands out as one of the closest and most extensive Los Angeles wilderness day trips.
Offering a vast network of over 500 miles of hiking trails, visitors can engage in activities like rock climbing or simply relish the opportunity to observe wildlife along the trails.
Among these, the renowned Backbone Trail, stretching 67 miles, is a highlight in the Santa Monica Mountains.
For those with limited time, selecting the most scenic section of the trail for a day hike is an excellent option.
25. Long Beach
Travel time: 30 minutes by car or 45 minutes by bus
Long Beach emerges as one of the most accessible Los Angeles day trip options in this article. Situated on the periphery of LA, this coastal neighborhood boasts a location along the city’s shores.
If you’re looking for easy day trips from Los Angeles, you can reach this day trip destination by boarding the San Ysidro FlixBus directly from Los Angeles Union Station
What sets this coastal neighborhood apart? Long Beach is a popular choice for Hollywood movie sets, ranking among the top 2% of the most expensive residential areas globally.
With an average of 345 days of sunshine per year, Long Beach exudes a glamorous ambiance. Visitors can explore Long Beach City Beach, and delve into museums like the Long Beach Museum of Art and the Museum of Latin American Art. As well as wander through the Japanese-style Rainbow Lagoon Park.
However, even admiring the skyscrapers and waterfront scenery is a memorable experience in itself.
26. Limestone Canyon Regional Park
Travel time from Los Angeles: 55 minutes by car
Embark on a journey to the captivating Limestone Canyon Regional Park, renowned as one of the most enchanting day trips from Los Angeles.
Access to the park is limited to specific days, but you can opt for a guided tour led by rangers during non-access periods.
Managed by the Irvine Ranch Conservancy, you can make bookings and reservations through them.
As you traverse the park, you’ll encounter breathtaking hikes that lead you past remarkable geological formations like sinks and vibrant limestone ridges.
Offering a less crowded alternative for a day trip from Los Angeles, Limestone Canyon Regional Park serves as the perfect retreat from bustling tourist hubs.
27. San Pedro
Travel time from Los Angeles: 25 minutes by car or 2 hours 40 minutes by public transport
San Pedro stands out as another enticing outskirt neighborhood of LA, catering well to day-trippers seeking a unique experience.
Exuding a young professional atmosphere, the area is characterized by an array of suburban houses for rent and local coffee shops.
Initially established as its own city, San Pedro became part of Los Angeles in 1909. It offers visitors a glimpse into suburban culture within a coastal district of LA.
A visit to the iconic San Pedro Fish Market and Restaurant is a must for seafood enthusiasts, while maritime enthusiasts can explore the popular Battleship USS Iowa Museum and Los Angeles Maritime Museum.
San Pedro presents an excellent opportunity for a day trip from Los Angeles along the Pacific Ocean.
28. Coronado Island
Travel time from Los Angeles: 2 hours and 10 minutes by car
Nestled in San Diego Bay lies Coronado Island, a charming and romantic town renowned for hosting one of California’s original beach resorts.
Spanning just over a mile in length, this pedestrian-friendly island offers a delightful setting for leisurely strolls. It allows visitors to peruse shops and indulge in dining experiences at terraced restaurants.
The iconic red-roofed Hotel del Coronado has exuded Victorian elegance since its establishment in 1888. Noteworthy for its appearance in the film “Some Like It Hot,” starring Marilyn Monroe, this historic venue is a must-visit destination for cinema enthusiasts and history aficionados alike.
29. Angeles National Forest
Travel time from Los Angeles: 1.5 hours by car
Spanning over 700,000 acres of pathways, trails, and captivating sights, Angeles National Forest is often referred to as LA’s “backyard playground.”
Renowned for its accessibility, it serves as one of the most easily reachable natural areas for a day trip from Los Angeles.
Visitors can partake in activities like horseback riding, off-roading, or hiking, while simply driving through the forest. This place offers a thrilling experience with its winding roads and breathtaking vistas of mountainous woodland scenery.
Angeles National Forest boasts free entry, making it an exceptionally budget-friendly option for a day trip from Los Angeles.
30. Crystal Cove State Park
Travel time from Los Angeles: 50 minutes by car
Nestled just south of LA, the stunning 2,400-acre Crystal Cove State Park is a captivating blend of beach and sand dunes.
The 3.2-mile beach, open to the public, offers an array of rock pools and intriguing coves waiting to be explored.
I recommend strolling along the scenic boardwalk before settling in for a leisurely beach day. Basking on the sandy shores and immersing yourself in the tranquil coastal ambiance is truly a delightful experience.
The peaceful seaside retreat serves as a refreshing escape following the hustle and bustle of LA.
Day Trips From Los Angeles: FAQs
Discover the best day trips from Los Angeles, and delve into these essential FAQs for more insights.
What cities are 2 hours from Los Angeles?
Thousand Oaks and Santa Clarita are both within a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles. San Diego is slightly over 2.5 hours away by car.
What tourist cities are close to Los Angeles?
San Diego is a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles, while Las Vegas is a 4-hour and 40-minute drive away.
Can you do a day trip to San Diego from Los Angeles?
Indeed, a day trip from Los Angeles to San Diego is entirely achievable. You can opt for a train journey in under 3 hours or drive there in 2 hours.
Final Thoughts on The Best Day Trips From Los Angeles
Day trips from Los Angeles offer a diverse range of activities, from scuba diving and horseback riding in national parks to exploring sea caves.
Nearby cities boast art galleries and museums for indoor days, while ample hiking trails and natural landscapes cater to outdoor enthusiasts.
Not to forget, the Los Angeles area is renowned for its exceptional golf courses, providing numerous options for golf enthusiasts.
It is advisable to allocate a few days in your Los Angeles itinerary to explore these remarkable day trip opportunities.
With a plethora of activities awaiting, make the most of your time and seize these exciting adventures.
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