• 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.

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


Relax by the ocean or savor spa treatments on an easy weekend trip.

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

© Cape Rey Resort and Spa

Set on the stunning coastline with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, the luxurious Cape Rey Resort and Spa is stylish, sophisticated and relaxing. Elegantly appointed accommodations include deluxe guest rooms and suites designed and decorated with chic contemporary furnishings and spellbinding ocean views.

Suites offer absolute comfort and tranquility and have beautiful granite en-suite bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and separate glass-enclosed showers. Experience the best of local cuisine at the award-winning Chandler’s Restaurant or unwind with rejuvenating treatments and massages at the Ocean Crest Spa, offering a range of traditional body treatments and massage therapies. Cool off in the resort’s beautiful swimming pool, and keep fit in the state-of-the-art health and fitness center.

Cape Rey Resort and Spa, 1 Ponto Road, Carlsbad, California 92011, Phone: 760-602-0800


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


Admire coastal views or enjoy a romantic stay in this elegant hideaway.

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

© La Valencia

Guest rooms and suites at the pink-colored La Valencia in La Jolla are just steps from the beach. The elegant hotel overlooks the ocean and offers its guests five star service, gourmet dining and a sparkling outdoor pool. Choose from 114 luxury guest accommodations, including suites and Ocean Villas decorated in old-world style. The iconic hotel has hosted notable guests since 1926. La Jolla offers sandy beaches, kayaking and jogging along the 2-mile beach boardwalk.

1132 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037, Phone: 855-476-6870


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


Unwind in quiet gardens or explore a charming retreat perfect for retirement.

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

© The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

Plan a relaxing weekend getaway at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe in San Diego's North County. The inn is located on 21 acres with beautiful pathways and cottages featuring fireplaces, patios and kitchenettes. Guest cottages are surrounded by flower gardens, perfect for a romantic trip. There is also croquet, tennis, a swimming pool, whirlpool and a health spa. Nearby attractions include the Del Mar race track, shopping, galleries, restaurants and several beaches. The resort is a two-hour drive from LA.

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe , 5951 Linea Del Cielo, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067, Phone: 858-756-1131

Paso Robles - Hotel Cheval - 3 hours from LA


Savor local wines or discover exciting countryside charm on your getaway.

Paso Robles - Hotel Cheval - 3 hours from LA

© Hotel Cheval

Plan a trip to Paso Robles to enjoy wine tasting, restaurants, art galleries and local farmers' markets. Check into the 16-room Hotel Cheval which is located just off the town square. The hotel has stylish guest accommodations, many with fireplaces, vaulted ceilings and outdoor patios. Guests receive free WiFi, welcome cookies, complimentary breakfast and luxury amenities such as 37-inch LCD flat screen TVs and 400-thread count cotton sheets. You can request in-room massages, reflexology and facials.

The Pony Club at Hotel Cheval offers a diverse selection of beer, champagne and wine, including favorites from the Paso Robles wine growing region. Attractions and activities in the area include Hearst Castle, San Miguel Mission, California Coast beaches, horseback riding, biking and fishing. The hotel offers custom private wine tours in a luxury SUV, accompanied by in-house wine guides and a certified Sommelier (from $100 per hour with a 4-hour minimum on weekends). The hotel is located midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. This is a pet-friendly getaway.

Hotel Cheval, 1021 Pine Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446, Phone: 805-226-9995

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


Walk lush grounds or enjoy scenic sights during your romantic weekend escape.

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

© El Encanto

Santa Barbara, 90 minutes from LA, is famous for its beautiful beaches and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains. Weekend activities include wine tasting, biking, kayaking, art museum and, of course, relaxing on the beach. There is plenty to see and do for an active couple. Add some extra romance to your trip and take the Pacific Surfliner train from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara.

Since it's easy to get around Santa Barbara on foot or by bike, leave the car at home and read a book on the train instead. Stay at the newly restored romantic El Encanto which has a spa and luxury suites. Canary Hotel has a rooftop swimming pool, perfect for relaxing in the sun while you are not out sightseeing. The recently renovated Presidio Motel and Franciscan Inn offer affordable rooms. Summer weekends are very popular, so it's a good idea to book early, particularly during the holidays.

800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, Phone: 805-845-5800

Ojai Valley Inn


Visit this peaceful oasis or enjoy affordable luxury near the California coast.

Ojai Valley Inn

© Ojai Valley Inn

Offering everything you need for an active or a relaxing weekend getaway, the Ojai Valley Inn is scenically located in a coastal valley, surrounded by 220 wooded acres. The Inn has won several awards and accolades, including being nominated as one of the best 100 hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveler Magazine.

Needless to say, the accommodation options are luxurious. On-site amenities include a legendary golf course, a fabulous full-service spa, four sparkling swimming pools and no fewer than 7 restaurants and bars. Other activities include visiting the apiary for a tour and honey tasting, attending a wine tasting talk or learning a new craft.

Ojai Valley Inn, 905 Country Club Road, Ojai, CA 93023, 855-697-8780

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


Soak in healing waters or admire desert views on a relaxing trip.

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

© The Spring Resort and Spa

Boasting breathtaking views of Palm Springs and the surrounding snow-capped mountains of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio, The Spring Resort and Spa is a relaxing hideaway. The establishment features natural mineral springs in three pools and offers special treatments such as massages and other spa services. The source of the ancient springs gushes out at 170 degrees with healing, restorative minerals, and the sparkling clear, curative mineral spring waters have been nourishing bodies and soothing minds at the resort since 1956.

Accommodations range from boutique hotel rooms and two-bedroomed villas, nine of which have lovely courtyard and pool views. Understated and unique, guest rooms feature king-sized dressed in 100% Egyptian cotton linens, spacious living areas, en-suite bathrooms with rain showers and soaking tubs, a stereo, CD player and iPod dock, and climate control. The resort offers an array of excellent facilities, including three mineral pools and a range of indulgent spa services.

The Spring Resort and Spa, 12699 Reposo Way, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240, Phone: 760-251-6700

Newport Beach - Whale watching - 50 minutes


Go whale watching or walk along the coast with the kids.

Newport Beach - Whale watching - 50 minutes

© BEKIR/stock.adobe.com

  • What makes Newport Beach a great getaway from Los Angeles?
    • Located just one hour from Los Angeles, Newport Beach is a popular seaside getaway known for its great shopping, a variety of hotel options, and numerous leisure activities.
  • When is the best time to visit Newport Beach for whale watching?
    • The best time to watch whales migrating from the beach is from May through August, which also makes it an ideal time for a summer weekend getaway.
  • What unique attraction should visitors check out?
    • Visitors should explore Balboa Island, a quaint island community that feels like a charming East Coast town.

Big Bear Lake - 2 hours


Explore forest trails or go boating on a fun summer adventure.

Big Bear Lake -  2 hours

© Denise/stock.adobe.com

  • Why is Big Bear Lake a great getaway from Los Angeles?
    • Big Bear Lake, located in San Bernardino County, is approximately 80 miles from Los Angeles and offers a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, boating, and hiking in the San Bernardino National Forest.
  • What activities can outdoor enthusiasts enjoy?
    • Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking scenic trails, boating on Big Bear Lake, and swimming in crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot for those who love to stay active during their vacation.
  • Where can visitors stay in Big Bear Lake?
    • Visitors can stay at The Lodge at Big Bear Lake, which offers 147 guest rooms and suites featuring gas-burning fireplaces, spa-style bathtubs, and wet bars.
  • Is Big Bear Lake an affordable getaway?
    • Yes, Big Bear Lake is considered a fun and affordable weekend getaway for individuals, couples, and families alike.

630 Bartlett Road, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, Phone: 800-424-4232 Big Bear Lake Video

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


Lounge poolside or visit a top resort offering romantic desert attractions.

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

© Hyatt Regency Indian Wells

Located less than 2 hours from Los Angeles, The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa is a great weekend getaway destination that the whole family will enjoy. There are great facilities for all ages including 2 championship golf courses, desert hiking trails, tennis courts, outdoor swimming pools (with a great water park) and lazy poolside cabanas. You can be as active as you like or dedicate the weekend to relaxation and regeneration at the spa. There are a selection of guest rooms, suites and villas to choose from including spacious double-Queen rooms suitable for families. There is a poolside bar and café and the Agave Sunset Bar and Lounge serves delectable cocktails and California cuisine.

Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa, 44600 Indian Wells Lane, Indian Wells, CA 92210, 760-776-1234

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

Plan Your Trip


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