Day Trips from Los Angeles
Ready to unplug from the daily routine and take a day trip from the city? Well, you are in the right place! Los Angeles is full of excitement, but sometimes the best way to recharge is with a quick escape. Fortunately, the city is surrounded by incredible destinations that make for perfect day trips. Having explored the region many times over the past 30 years, I’ve found that just a short drive from LA you can discover everything from charming coastal towns and scenic beaches to desert landscapes and mountain retreats.
I’ve enjoyed peaceful seaside strolls, lively towns filled with culture and food, and outdoor adventures that highlight Southern California’s natural beauty. From family-friendly outings to romantic escapes and active adventures, day trips from Los Angeles offer something for everyone. Here are the ones I recommend from my recent four week road trip, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
Day Trips Under 1 Hour from LA
If you don't have a lot of time and are just looking for a quick 5 hour day trip in the morning or an afternoon, check out these trips that are under an hour from LA.
1. Huntington Beach - one-hour drive south from LA
I found Huntington Beach to be one of the best day trips you can take when you’re craving ocean vibes without going too far. Known as “Surf City USA,” this gem has such a joyful, laid-back energy that makes every visit feel like a weekend getaway, even if I’m only there for the day.
From Los Angeles, it was about a one-hour drive south to Huntington Beach, a coastal city of around 200,000. We stayed at the 4-star Waterfront Beach Resort.
At the International Surfing Museum ($3 admission), I saw info about Duke Kahanamoku and the roots of surf culture. It reminded me of my 6 years living in Hawaii and the Duke Kahanamoku Statue in Waikiki.
What I love most is the wide stretch of sand and the lively pier that feels both classic and exciting—there’s nothing like grabbing a coffee, strolling to the end, and watching surfers ride the waves. It’s honestly one of my favorite underrated spots near LA because it's so relaxing but you have a lot to do if you get restless.
We spent the afternoon lounging by the water, but Huntington Beach also has some of the coolest bike paths along the coast.
If you want something more unusual, the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve nearby is a brilliant idea for a walk through wetlands filled with birds and peaceful trails.
I thought the atmosphere was both family-friendly and romantic...you can picnic on the beach, play volleyball, or end the evening around a bonfire as the sun sets. That glowing sky over the Pacific is absolute magic, and it’s the kind of moment I always want to capture in my photos.
- Location: Map & Directions
For me, Huntington Beach is the ultimate affordable and exciting coastal escape—an exceptional mix of surf culture, natural beauty, and easygoing charm that makes it one of the absolute best day trips from Los Angeles.
2. Santa Clarita - 35-minute drive north from LA
I think Santa Clarita is one of the coolest and most underrated day trip destinations. Tucked into the hills of northern LA County, it feels like a joyful mix of thrilling adventures and relaxing escapes, which makes it perfect for both family fun and a romantic weekend vibe that completely won me over.
From downtown Los Angeles, it was about a 35-minute drive north to Santa Clarita.
What stood out to me first was Six Flags Magic Mountain. This theme park is legendary for some of the best roller coasters in the world, and it’s honestly an absolute dream for thrill-seekers. We spent hours racing from ride to ride, and I couldn’t stop smiling from the excitement.
But Santa Clarita isn’t just about adrenaline. I loved discovering the hiking trails in Placerita Canyon and Vasquez Rocks. The scenery is spectacular and unusual, with dramatic rock formations and peaceful nature that felt like a hidden gem so close to the city. It’s one of my favorite places to take photos because every view looks cinematic.
Downtown Newhall was another highlight for me. The area has a vibrant energy, with cool art installations, affordable eateries, and unique shops that make it such an interesting stop. I thought the blend of old Western history and modern creativity was truly exceptional.
- Location: Map & Directions
We ended our day watching the sunset over the golden hills, and it was pure magic. For me, Santa Clarita is one of the best day trips from Los Angeles—an amazing mix of fun, beauty, and culture that makes every visit feel unforgettable.
3. Malibu - 1 hour from Los Angeles
Just a short drive up the Pacific Coast Highway from Los Angeles, Malibu feels like one of the most scenic coastal gems in Southern California. To me, it’s both vibrant and peaceful, the kind of dreamy place where every corner offers ocean views, hidden beaches, and that magic California sunshine. We stayed at 3-star Cambria Hotel Calabasas-Malibu for two days.
We started our day at Zuma Beach, one of my favorite spots for wide stretches of sand and gentle waves. It felt like the absolute best place to relax, and I loved watching surfers ride the breaks while families played along the shoreline. The atmosphere was laid-back, exactly what I wanted from a coastal getaway.
The most popular place to eat in Malibu is Nobu Malibu, but note that you’ll need to make reservations weeks (sometimes even months!) in advance. Don’t worry, though; Malibu’s dining scene is full of incredible spots that pair ocean views with world-class cuisine. Geoffrey’s Malibu has been a local favorite for decades, while Malibu Farm on the pier serves up fresh, coastal California dishes that perfectly capture the laid-back, beachside vibe.
- Location: Map & Directions
We ended the afternoon hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains, where the trails offered panoramic views of the coastline. Watching the sunset paint the Pacific gold and pink was absolute magic, and it reminded me why Malibu is one of the best and most unforgettable day trips from Los Angeles.
4. Venice Beach - 20 minutes west of downtown Los Angeles
We started at the Venice Boardwalk, which is one of my favorite places for people-watching. Street performers, colorful murals, and quirky shops gave the whole area an awesome and joyful vibe. It’s truly one of the most unique beach scenes in California, and I always find something new and interesting here.
Only about 20 minutes west of downtown Los Angeles, Venice Beach is easily one of the coolest and most vibrant spots for a quick escape. To me, it’s a hidden gem of creativity, energy, and oceanfront fun that feels both unusual and exciting every time I visit.
Walking along the beach, I loved the wide stretch of sand and the waves filled with surfers. Muscle Beach was buzzing with energy, and seeing the outdoor gym in action felt like stepping into a piece of California history—it’s such a cool and underrated landmark.
Another highlight for me was strolling through the Venice Canals. This unusual neighborhood feels like a romantic European dream tucked into LA, with charming footbridges, calm waters, and beautiful homes that make it one of the city’s best-kept secrets. It’s the kind of spot that feels magical at sunset.
The most popular place to eat in Venice Beach is Gjelina, but note that you’ll need to book a table well in advance...it’s one of L.A.’s hardest reservations to snag. No worries, though; Venice is a foodie’s dream, packed with laid-back yet inventive spots you won’t find anywhere else. The Butcher’s Daughter is a local favorite for plant-forward fare and great people-watching, while Great White near the boardwalk nails the beach-brunch vibe.
- Location: Map & Directions
We wrapped up our day with a walk down Abbot Kinney Boulevard, where the boutiques, cafés, and art galleries created an exceptional mix of style and culture. For me, Venice Beach is one of the absolute best day trips from Los Angeles—colorful, eclectic, and unforgettable every single time.
5. Knott’s Berry Farm - 1 hour Day Trip from Los Angeles
About 25 miles southeast of Los Angeles in Buena Park, Knott’s Berry Farm is one of my absolute favorite day trips when I want a joyful mix of thrills, history, and family fun. To me, it’s one of the coolest and most underrated theme parks in Southern California, and it always feels like pure magic every time I go back.
We started in Ghost Town, which I think is such a unique part of the park. The old Western atmosphere, complete with wooden buildings, costumed characters, and unusual little shops, made me feel like I’d stepped back in time. It’s not just rides—it’s an experience, and that’s what makes it so special.
Of course, I couldnt miss the roller coasters. Knott’s is home to some of the best rides, from the high-speed thrills of GhostRider to the twists and loops of Silver Bullet. The excitement was nonstop, and I loved that there’s a a cool mix of big coasters and fun family-friendly attractions too.
One of my favorite parts of the day was trying the food—especially the famous boysenberry treats. From boysenberry pie to jam, everything tasted amazing, and it felt like a delicious nod to the park’s roots as a berry farm. It’s such an interesting and unusual touch that makes Knott’s stand out from other theme parks.
- Location: Map & Directions
As the sun set, we ended the day watching live entertainment, which brought a vibrant energy to the park. For me, Knott’s Berry Farm is an exciting, affordable, and exceptional getaway near Los Angeles—an absolute best choice for both families and adventurous friends alike.
Day Trips Over 1 Hour from LA
If you have a full day to enjoy a day trip, check out these trips that are one hour+ of driving time from LA.
6. Redlands - 1 hour and 10-minute drive east from LA
From Los Angeles, it was about a one-hour 10-minute drive east to Redlands. Our day trip from LA turned into an overnight trip and we stayed at the historic Ayres Hotel Redlands ($159), which blended comfort with a nod to local history.
I found Redlands to be one of the most underrated gems for a quick day trip. Nestled near the San Bernardino Mountains, this cool little city has a vibrant charm that makes it feel like a joyful mix of history, culture, and small-town magic.
What I loved right away was the tree-lined streets and the unusual Victorian-style homes that made me feel like I’d stepped back in time. We wandered through the historic downtown, which is filled with unique boutiques, affordable cafés, and some of the best locally owned restaurants I’ve discovered on a getaway near LA.
My favorite stop was the Redlands Bowl, a dreamy outdoor amphitheater where they host free concerts in the summer—it’s such a brilliant idea for an evening out and feels like one of the coolest community traditions. Seeing it in person reminded me why this city is so special.
We also spent time at Prospect Park, which was so peaceful and filled with vibrant orange groves. The scent of citrus in the air was amazing, and it felt like a romantic yet family-friendly escape at the same time. The San Bernardino mountains in the distance just added to the spectacular backdrop.
Redlands has a quietly thriving food scene filled with spots that showcase its small-town charm and local flavors. Caprice Café offers an upscale yet cozy experience right in the heart of downtown, while Darby’s American Cantina is perfect for laid-back bites and craft drinks on a warm Inland Empire evening.
- Location: Map & Directions
Another highlight was the University of Redlands campus—it’s one of the most beautiful college grounds I’ve ever walked through, and I thought the architecture was both impressive and inspiring. For me, Redlands is an exciting and affordable hidden gem near Los Angeles, offering a unique blend of history, nature, and small-town warmth that makes every visit memorable.
7. Ojai, California - 1 hour 50 min from LA
I think Ojai is one of the absolute best hidden gems for a weekend or even just a dreamy day trip. Nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains, it feels both peaceful and vibrant—like a joyful little world of its own.
From LA, it was a 1 hour 50 min drive southeast to Ojai, a town of about 7,500 nestled in a scenic valley. Downtown’s Spanish-style arcades, built in 1917, gave the town its distinctive look.
We started in the charming downtown filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. I loved the unique vibe here—everything feels locally inspired and full of character, and it’s honestly one of my favorite places to just wander. The arcade-style Spanish architecture makes it even more interesting and unusual compared to other small towns in California.
Ojai is famous for its orange groves, and sipping fresh-squeezed juice while enjoying the mountain views was pure magic. We also explored the Saturday farmers market, which felt so alive with color and flavor—it was an exceptional highlight of our day.
My favorite part, though, was hiking in the surrounding trails. The scenery is spectacular, and catching the “pink moment” at sunset, when the Topatopa Mountains glow in a rosy light, felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s honestly one of the coolest natural shows I’ve ever seen.
For those seeking relaxation, Ojai is also known for its spas and wellness retreats, and I thought that made it a brilliant idea for either a romantic escape or a soulful solo trip. Affordable, beautiful, and inspiring, Ojai has this unusual magic that makes me want to return again and again.
The popular place to eat in Ojai is Olivella that offers a refined, farm-to-table experience with California wines to match, while Farmer and the Cook brings an organic, bohemian charm that perfectly captures Ojai’s easygoing spirit.
- Location: Map & Directions
Check prices at Ojai Valley Inn ($295), a 1923 resort blending luxury with rustic charm.
8. Joshua Tree National Park - 2 hours 20 minutes from LA
I was completely captivated by this otherworldly desert landscape — a place where sculpted granite monoliths, clusters of whimsical Joshua trees, and vast stretches of golden sand come together in quiet harmony. There’s something distinctly mystical about the light at Joshua Tree National Park — especially at sunrise, when the rocks glow amber and the twisted silhouettes of the trees seem almost alive.
From Palm Springs, I drove less than an hour east and spent the day exploring some of the park’s most iconic spots. I wandered through Hidden Valley, where giant boulders form a natural amphitheater, then climbed up to Keys View for a sweeping panorama across the Coachella Valley — a view that quite literally took my breath away. Later, I lingered in the Cholla Cactus Garden, watching the sun dip low and set the desert aglow in molten gold.
My personal highlight was camping under a sea of stars — the night sky here is pure magic, so dark and crystalline that I could trace the Milky Way with my eyes. I also loved the calm simplicity of the morning hikes, when the air was still cool and the desert seemed to hold its breath, the only sound a distant call of a raven echoing between the rocks.
9. Big Bear Lake - 2 hours 15 minutes from LA
Nestled high in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake immediately charmed me with its crisp alpine air and laid-back lakeside atmosphere. The combination of pine-scented breezes, mirror-still water, and cozy mountain cabins gave it that nostalgic, small-town feel — a place that feels worlds away from city life.
I drove up from LA in two hours 15 minutes, winding along scenic mountain roads that opened up to breathtaking views. Once there, I spent the day strolling along the lakefront trail, watching kayakers glide past and fishermen casting lines from quiet coves. Later, I wandered through The Village, a charming cluster of cafés and boutique shops, before hiking the Castle Rock Trail, a short but rewarding climb with sweeping views over the sparkling lake and surrounding peaks.
10. Santa Barbara - 2 hours 20 min from LA
Only a couple of hours north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara shines as one of the most unique coastal getaways in California. Known as the “American Riviera,” this gem is both vibrant and relaxing, making it one of my favorite places for a joyful day trip or a romantic weekend escape. You can stay at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara which has won the AAA Four Diamond award so you can trust that it's a quality place.
We started at Stearns Wharf, where the ocean views felt like pure magic. I loved strolling along the pier, grabbing fresh seafood, and just watching the sailboats drift across the horizon—it was such an exceptional way to soak in the coastal charm. The whole place felt alive yet peaceful at the same time.
Downtown Santa Barbara is absolutely beautiful, with Spanish-style architecture, red-tiled roofs, and palm-lined streets that give it a unique Mediterranean feel. Wandering through State Street with its boutique shops, cool cafés, and lively atmosphere was one of my favorite parts of the trip.
Another highlight for me was the Santa Barbara Mission. The historic architecture and vibrant gardens made it such an interesting and unusual stop, and I loved learning a bit about California’s history while surrounded by so much beauty. It’s truly one of the city’s hidden gems.
- Location: Map & Directions
In the afternoon, we explored the beaches and then drove up to the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. The mountain backdrop and ocean views together felt like a dream. Watching the sunset over the Pacific was absolute magic, and it reminded me why this city is one of the best coastal escapes from Los Angeles.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
