Best Places to Visit in Southern California
Having explored its diverse corners, I’ve found that SoCal offers an ideal balance of natural beauty, cultural richness, and endless opportunities for adventure or relaxation.
I’ve wandered along scenic coastal trails, discovered hidden gems in desert oases, and enjoyed bustling cities filled with art, food, and history. From family-friendly fun and romantic getaways to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, Southern California has something for everyone. Here are the places and activities I recommend, and I think you’ll love them too.
1. Dana Point
I thought that Dana Point is one of the best places to visit in Southern California. Why? In September, this charming coastal town welcomed me with golden sunshine, a soft ocean breeze, far fewer crowds than summer, and hotel rates that felt much more reasonable than the peak season!
I loved the relaxed yet upscale Southern California vibe, the mix of surfers catching morning waves, families strolling the marina, and locals gathering at trendy coffee spots or seaside wine bars.
From Los Angeles, it was about a 1.5-hour drive south to Dana Point, known as the “Whale Watching Capital of the World”. I spent four days at 2-star Dana Point Marina Inn. My days were filled with dolphin-watching cruises, tide-pooling at Salt Creek Beach, browsing the charming shops along Del Prado Avenue, and dining al fresco on fresh-caught seafood at Wind & Sea Restaurant, Monarch Bay Beach Club or Chart House.
- Location: Map & Directions
The scenery was pure postcard material, my personal highlight. I loved rolling coastal bluffs, turquoise waters, and fiery sunsets melting into the horizon.
2. Catalina
I loved the mix of Mediterranean charm and laid-back beach culture on Catalina Island, including the candy-colored cottages of Avalon Bay, palm-lined promenades, and hidden coves. The scenery was unforgettable with rugged cliffs dropping into aquamarine water, sailboats, and golden sunset.
We left the mainland by ferry from Long Beach (about 1 hour ride, $42.25 one way) and docked in Avalon, the island’s only incorporated city (population around 3,700). For the night, we stayed at the 3-star Pavilion Hotel, steps from the harbor and with a garden courtyard that felt like an oasis. I kayaked through glass-clear waters, snorkeled among bright Garibaldi fish at Lover’s Cove, wandered the historic Casino building with its Art Deco murals, and hiked the Trans-Catalina Trail for sweeping vistas that felt a world away.
- Location: Map & Directions
3. Riverside
This historic inland city welcomed me with warm desert, sunshine, clear skies, and a golden glow that made its Mission Revival architecture look even more striking. With the summer heat mellowing into pleasant evenings, the streets felt lively but not overcrowded, and hotel deals were easy to find.
From Los Angeles, it was about a one-hour drive east into Riverside. The crown jewel is the 4-star Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, a sprawling Spanish Revival landmark dating back to 1876.
I wandered through the Mission Inn Museum, explored the Riverside Art Museum’s thought-provoking exhibits, and hiked up Mount Rubidoux for a panoramic sunset view of the valley. I also took a day trip to the UC Riverside Botanic Gardens, a hidden gem with lush landscapes and desert blooms. Evenings were for savoring farm-to-table dining under twinkling patio lights.
- Location: Map & Directions
4. San Luis Obispo
I found that this laid-back Central Coast gem made the perfect early summer getaway/ The weather was warm but breezy, the rolling hills and vineyards were lush and green, the farmers’ markets were bursting with fresh produce and flowers, and everything felt relaxed before the peak summer crowds arrived!
We drove just under 40 minutes south from Paso Robles to San Luis Obispo, a city of around 47,000 (plus another 20,000 students at Cal Poly). We spent two nights at the 3-star Madonna Inn, a quirky landmark hotel with over-the-top themed rooms. I spent my days hiking along the scenic Bishop Peak trail, cycling along the Bob Jones City-to-Sea Trail, and exploring the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. I also had fun exploring the unique shops on Higuera Street and, of course, snapping photos at the quirky Bubblegum Alley!
- Location: Map & Directions
5. Santa Barbara
We drove about 1.5 hours north from Los Angeles into Santa Barbara. We stayed at the elegant 4-star Kimpton Canary for two days. I found that this glamorous-yet-relaxed coastal city made the perfect early summer getaway in late May. The weather was sunny and warm but not sweltering. I especially loved the jacaranda trees which were in full purple bloom along the streets. The beaches were already lively but not as bad as in mid-summer. The Spanish-style plazas and courtyards were buzzing with al-fresco diners and music that made the atmosphere fun.
My favorite highlight was Convivo Restaurant and Bar at the Santa Barbara Inn right on East Cabrillo. We loved their decor with vintage wood floors, booth seating and big arched windows. Since the menu is always changing based on the seasons, I can't tell you exactly what to oder but you can't go wrong with a mixed seafood grill.
- Location: Map & Directions
I spent my days wine tasting along the Urban Wine Trail, hiking to the scenic Inspiration Point trail, relaxing at East Beach, exploring the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, and exploring the boutiques along State Street. We also loved taking a sunset sail from the harbor and the affordable trolley tour.
My favorite highlight was watching a sunset on the beach in Santa Barbara.
6. Solvang & Old Mission Santa Ines - 2 hours 30 minutes from LA
This whimsical Danish is such a cool place to visit and I think it's one of the best vacation spots in Southern California. Why? First off, the half-timbered buildings and windmills make you feel like you've gone to Europe more than 100 years ago. We also admired the roses and geraniums in the window boxes. From Santa Barbara, it was just a 45-minute drive northwest into Solvang on our road trip, but if you are driving from LA, it's 2 hours 30 minutes.
First stop was Old Mission Santa Inés in Solvang, one of my favorite discoveries in Southern California, a true hidden gem that feels both historic and magical. Nestled right in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, this mission has an incredible backdrop of rolling hills, vineyards, and distant mountains, making it one of the most spectacular and underrated places to visit.
- Location: Map & Directions
We stayed at the boutique 4-star Landsby Hotel for two nights where we enjoyed its chic Scandinavian design. If you are planning a romantic weekend getaways, ask about rooms with jetted tubs and fireplaces for extra luxury.
I spent my days cycling through the rolling countryside, sampling authentic Danish pastries at Mortensen’s bakery, browsing antique shops, and visiting the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art.
7. Santa Monica
Santa Monica is one of my absolute favorite spots in Southern California. Why? Because it blends that vibrant city vibe with the coolest beachfront energy. From downtown Los Angeles, it was a quick 25-minute drive west to Santa Monica.
The Santa Monica Pier is always my first stop. With its iconic Ferris wheel, carnival games, and ocean views, it feels like pure magic every time. I also love walking along the Third Street Promenade, along the beach path and lively boardwalk.
Whether I’m sipping coffee at a trendy café, relaxing on the sand, or enjoying a romantic dinner overlooking the ocean, Santa Monica always delivers. To me, it’s one of the absolute best places to visit in Southern California to soak up that cool coastal vibe while still having endless things to do.
- Location: Map & Directions
8. Hollywood
I found that visiting Hollywood in February made for an exciting winter getaway. Why? First of all, the weather was pleasantly mild with crisp mornings and sunny afternoons. The Hollywood Hills were lush and green from winter rains, the air was clear for sweeping city views, and the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation in the weeks leading up to awards season!
We drove about 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles into Hollywood. I stayed at the historic 4-star Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel three nights (famous for its glamorous Old Hollywood history) and spent my days touring the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre and Hollywood Walk of Fame, hiking up to the Hollywood Sign via the Mt. Hollywood trail, exploring the exhibits at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, and enjoying live comedy shows and music venues on Sunset Boulevard.
- Location: Map & Directions
My favorite highlight was a studio tour at Warner Bros. this month to peek behind the curtain of Hollywood filmmaking.
9. Santa Ynez
I found that this charming wine-country valley made the perfect late-fall getaway – the weather was crisp but sunny, the vineyards were glowing with golden autumn leaves, the tasting rooms felt cozy and welcoming, and the pace was delightfully calm after the harvest season yet before the winter holidays.
You can stay at the elegant 4-star Genevieve Hotel, a boutique property with a warm, romantic feel, and spend your days wine tasting at family-owned estates across the valley, horseback riding through rolling oak-dotted hills, strolling the quaint streets of nearby Los Olivos, and visiting the Chumash Casino for evening entertainment. I also loved the drives along Foxen Canyon Wine Trail that completely won me over.
- Location: Map & Directions
10. Pasadena
Pasadena has always felt like one of Southern California’s most underrated gems to me. From downtown Los Angeles, it was a quick 20-minute drive northeast into Pasadena. We spent the night at The Langham Huntington, a grand 1907 estate turned luxury hotel.
Here you can visit the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens, hike on the scenic Eaton Canyon trails, explore Old Pasadena’s boutiques and cafés, and admire the striking architecture of the Gamble House. I also loved the thriving food scene, from modern bistros to century-old institutions.
- Location: Map & Directions
Conclusion
Looking back on all of these Southern California gems I realize each one offers its own unique kind of magic.
What I love most is that every place feels like both a dream getaway and an affordable adventure, depending on how you experience it.
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.
