• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Carlsbad - Cape Rey Resort and Spa - 1 hour 50 minutes from Los Angeles ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Accommodations
Carlsbad - Cape Rey Resort and Spa - 1 hour 50 minutes from Los Angeles
© Cape Rey Resort and Spa

2. La Jolla - La Valencia - 2 hour Getaway from Los Angeles ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

La Jolla - La Valencia - 2 hour Getaway from Los Angeles
© La Valencia

3. The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe - 1 hour and 45 minutes Los Angeles

Category: Accommodations
The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe - 1 hour and 45 minutes Los Angeles
© The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

4. Paso Robles - Hotel Cheval - 3 hours from LA

Category: Accommodations
Paso Robles - Hotel Cheval - 3 hours from LA
© Hotel Cheval

5. Santa Barbara - El Encanto - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Los Angeles

Category: Food & Drink
Santa Barbara - El Encanto - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Los Angeles
© El Encanto

6. Ojai Valley Inn

Ojai Valley Inn
© Ojai Valley Inn

7. Desert Hot Springs - The Spring Resort and Spa - 2 hours from LA

Category: Accommodations
Desert Hot Springs - The Spring Resort and Spa - 2 hours from LA
© The Spring Resort and Spa

8. Newport Beach - Whale watching - 50 minutes

Category: Beaches
Newport Beach - Whale watching - 50 minutes
© BEKIR/stock.adobe.com

9. Big Bear Lake - 2 hours

Category: Activities
Big Bear Lake -  2 hours
© Denise/stock.adobe.com

10. Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa, Palm Springs - 2 hours from LA

Category: Accommodations
Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa, Palm Springs  - 2 hours from LA
© Hyatt Regency Indian Wells

11. Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort in Scottsdale - 5 hours and 30 minutes

Category: Accommodations
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort in Scottsdale - 5 hours and 30 minutes
© Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort

12. Idyllwild - Strawberry Creek Inn

Category: Activities
Idyllwild - Strawberry Creek Inn
© Strawberry Creek Inn

13. The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage - 1 hour and 50 minutes

Category: Attractions
The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage - 1 hour and 50 minutes
© The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage

14. Fine Wine and Food in Carmel Valley - 5 hours

Category: Food & Drink
Fine Wine and Food in Carmel Valley - 5 hours
© Philip/stock.adobe.com

15. LEGOLAND - 1 hour and 30 minutes

Category: Kids & Family
LEGOLAND  - 1 hour and 30 minutes
© LEGOLAND

16. The Huntley in Santa Monica - 20 minutes from LA

The Huntley in Santa Monica - 20 minutes from LA
© The Huntley

17. Temecula Creek Inn

Category: Activities
Temecula Creek Inn
© Temecula Creek Inn

18. Andaz San Diego

Andaz San Diego
© Andaz San Diego

19. Redondo Beach - Hotel Portofino - 30 minutes from LA

Category: Accommodations
Redondo Beach - Hotel Portofino - 30 minutes from LA
© Hotel Portofino

20. Avalon Hotel Palm Springs - 1 hour and 45 minutes

Category: Accommodations
Avalon Hotel Palm Springs - 1 hour and 45 minutes
© Avalon Hotel Palm Springs

21. San Clemente - Casa Tropicana Boutique Hotel - 1 hour 30 minutes

Category: Accommodations
San Clemente - Casa Tropicana Boutique Hotel - 1 hour 30 minutes
© Casa Tropicana Boutique Hotel

22. South Coast Winery Resort and Spa

Category: Accommodations
South Coast Winery Resort and Spa
© South Coast Winery Resort and Spa

Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • What are some quick weekend getaways from Los Angeles?
    • Popular weekend getaways from Los Angeles include Catalina Island, Palm Springs, Ojai, Laguna Beach, Carlsbad, Santa Barbara, and Newport Beach. Each destination offers unique attractions and experiences.
  • What family-friendly destinations are included?
    • For those traveling with children, the list features kid-friendly attractions, hotels, and restaurants to make the trip enjoyable for the whole family.
  • What are some options for couples?
    • Couples can choose from scenic beach resorts, unique weekend trips, day tours, and romantic spas for a relaxing getaway.
  • Are there affordable accommodation options?
    • Yes, the list includes a selection of affordable inns and budget-friendly accommodations for travelers seeking a cost-effective weekend escape.

Driving Distances from Los Angeles

From Los Angeles To     Driving Time
Palm Springs1 hour and 45 minutes
La Jolla2 hours
Rancho Santa Fe1 hour and 45 minutes
Paso Robles3 hours
Santa Barbara1 hour and 30 minutes
Las Vegas, NV4 hours
Newport Beach50 minutes
Big Bear, CA3 hours
Ojai1 hour and 30 minutes
Scottsdale, AZ5 hours and 30 minutes
Rancho Mirage1 hour and 50 minutes
Carmel Valley5 hours
Carlsbad, CA1 hour and 30 minutes
Santa Monica20 minutes
San Diego2 hours
Laguna Beach1 hour
Big Sur6 hours
Redondo Beach20 minutes

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