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Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

This article describes exciting weekend getaways from Los Angeles! Enjoy!

After having resided in Los Angeles for more than 15 years, I can say I know the city and its surroundings pretty well.  

Plus, my love for travel, discovery, and adventure has taken me outside the city many times.  I am on the road at least once a month.

However, since I have a full-time job, most of my outings take place during the weekends.  Because of that, I feel like I can elaborate on how to have an awesome weekend getaway from Los Angeles.

Here is the list of the places I visit over and over again.

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Sightseeing Gear

Get ready for a day of sightseeing by bringing the right gear.  Here is a list of the items I pack to explore cities and towns in California.

The Ideal Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

Before going into details, let me explain what is my idea of the perfect weekend getaway from Los Angeles.

Assuming we are counting with only two days, I tend to select places that are between 30 to 100 miles from my house.  In other words, I only want to drive an hour or two.

While it is technically possible to fit a 200 or 250 miles trip into a weekend, the idea is to spend the most time on location.  

I recommend leaving Los Angeles early Saturday.  If you have the budget to pay for an additional hotel night, it would be nice to depart Friday evening.

And, since we are talking about hotels, it is a good idea to have reservations.  I have left the house without plans. This approach has failed several times. On some occasions, it has been stressful to find a place to stay.  Other times, the prices have been out of control. For maximum enjoyment (and savings), do not procrastinate. Book that hotel before leaving the house (two weeks before the trip works better).

Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

Enough talking! Let’s start going through the places you can visit from Los Angeles during the weekend.

Santa Barbara

Ideal for: Couples looking for a romantic getaway, families with kids, beach lovers

Driving Time: 1:30 – 2:00 hours (95 miles)

What to see and do – Day 1 – Start by filling your belly with a good breakfast.  I recommend Jennine’s or Andersen’s (for Danish goodies).

After that, proceed to walk around Downtown to spot structures built with Spanish, Spanish Revival, and Moorish influences.  Download a copy of the Red Tile Walking Tour and let it be your guide.  You can also ask for a copy at the Visitors Center (1 Garden Street).

The tour will take you to places such as The Presidio, the Casa de la Guerra, and the famous Courthouse. Then, it is time to walk along State Street, the major artery of the city.  

Make some time to visit the Santa Barbara Mission (The Queen of Missions) and the rose garden located in front of it.  

End your day around the Stearns Wharf.  You can visit a museum, walk (or bike) along the beach or dine on fresh seafood.

What to see and do – Day 2 – On your second day, I recommend spending some time at the beach.  As mentioned, there are beaches on both sides of the Wharf. Leadbetter Beach is a good option too.  While there, you can walk to Shoreline Park to see great views of Santa Barbara.

People with dogs should head to Arroyo Burro Beach.  Dogs can run without a leash there.  

In the afternoon, head to the Funk Zone, an area full of wine tasting rooms, distilleries, breweries, restaurants, and murals (street art).  

Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara

The Santa Ynez Valley

Ideal for: Individuals looking for a slower life pace, wine lovers

Driving Time: 2:00 – 2:30 hours (140 miles)

What to see and do – Day 1 – In theory, you can combine Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley in a one-weekend getaway.  But, why rush things? Each area has its own charms.

Start your weekend by heading to Solvang, the Danish capital of the United States.  You got to have breakfast in one of the Danish bakeries or pancake houses.  Then, it is time to walk along Copenhagen Drive and Alisal Road to see the quaint buildings and windmills.

This is wine country.  Therefore, the weekend can be spent from wine tasting room to wine tasting room (if that is your thing).  Los Olivos is the town with the most tasting rooms in the area.  You can walk around without problems. Solvang has a good selection of wine tasting rooms too.

If you are visiting with kids, you can visit one of the Solvang museums, an ostrich farm, a miniature horse ranch and the two missions on the Valley.

What to see and do – Day 2 – Wine aficionados can fill the day with more wine tasting.  If you have explored the Los Olivos and Solvang scene, head to Buellton or the Wine Ghetto in Lompoc.

As an alternative, you can drive or bike the rural roads, spend the day at Jalama Beach or fish in Lake Cachuma.

Read More: Things to Do in Solvang

Solvang Bakeries and Sweet Treats

Solvang Wineries and Tasting Rooms

Things to Do in Los Olivos

Things to Do in Lompoc

Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, Solvang, The Santa Ynez Valley

Ventura

Ideal for: Small town aficionados, beach lovers, nature lovers

Driving Time: 1 hour (70 miles)

What to see and do – Day 1 – Set base at Downtown and explore historical buildings such as the City Hall, Mission, A.J. Comstock Museum and Ortega Adobe.  

Shoppers can take their pick at thrift/consignment stores or establishments selling surfing gear.  The original Patagonia (outdoor brand) store is located in town.

After walking around town, it is time to go down to the pier.  The area offers opportunities to do all sorts of watersports (surfing, paddleboarding, etc.).  You can rent bikes and pedal to the harbor (another area that can be checked out).

For beaches, you can stay close to Downtown or go to Emma Woods State Beach or McGrath State Beach.  Bivalve lovers should not miss The Jolly Oyster.

What to see and do – Day 2 – Plan an excursion to the Channel Islands National Park.  Access is through boats with a company called Island Packers. It is recommended to book and get familiarized with what you have to take for the trip and how to keep the park pristine.

This National Park does not get a lot of publicity but it is astonishingly beautiful and a world apart from the pace in the mainland.

Ventura Pier, Things to do in Ventura County, California

Palm Springs

Ideal for: Architecture, desert views, pool, and old-school establishments fans

Driving Time: 1:40 – 2:00 hours (110 miles)

What to see and do – Day 1 – In all honesty, Palm Springs is the place many choose to lounge by the hotel pool and get some spa treatments.  In some way, the scene is a bit like Vegas (a tamer version). So, this is the place for those who are searching for relaxation.

If you need to be moving around (like me), the day can easily be filled.  Start the day with breakfast at Cheeky’s (they have bacon flights, for real!), Elmer’s, or Broken Yolk Cafe.

Then, walk along Palm Canyon Drive to take a look at the stores, restaurant,s cafes, and galleries.  If you see signs pointing you to date shakes, try one.  This is the best thing you can have while in the area.

In the afternoon, head to the Aerial Tramway and get to the top of Mount San Jacinto.  Up there, you will have awesome views of the Coachella Valley.  Walk, hike, and watch the sunset from different viewpoints.

What to see and do – Day 2 – If you enjoy the outdoors, you can do a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park, or spend some time at the Indian Canyons, the Coachella Valley Preserve, or the Whitewater Preserve.  If you do not want to drive far, you can take a guided walk of Tahquitz Canyon (directly behind Palm Canyon Drive).

If you are into fashion, check out Palm Dessert’s El Paseo.

Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, Palm Springs

Huntington Beach

Ideal for: Surfers, beach, nature, and relaxed vibe lovers

Driving Time: 40 minutes – 1 hour (40 miles)

What to see and do – Day 1 – In my opinion, Huntington Beach (Surf City USA) does not get the attention it deserves.  Ok, I know it is known for its surfing legends and competitions but the city offers much more.

I would start the day by absorbing as much of the beach scene as possible.  To do that, I would walk around the pier or bike the beach trail. During the weekends, there are markets, live music, and shows around the pier plaza.

Then, I would walk go to the center of town, and stuff myself with tacos, poke, and Acai bowls.  You can stop by places like North Shore Poke Company, Pete’s Mexican Food, and 25 Degrees.

I also like Pacific City, a shopping and dining complex in front of the beach and within walking distance of the pier.  They have cool stores and a food hall with establishments serving coffee, ice cream, beer, and Aussie pies.

What to see and do – Day 2 – Huntington Beach is a city with many neighborhoods.  You can use this day to explore one. For example, you can visit Sunset Beach (across the Harbor), Bolsa Chica (with its beach and ecological reserve), and the Goldenwest and Southeast (Huntington State Beach) areas.

Keep in mind you can bike the entire length of Huntington Beach and connect to Newport Beach.  On the harbor, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and Duffy electric boats.

Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, Huntington Beach

Newport Beach

Ideal for: Couples looking for a romantic getaway, sailing/yachting fans, beach lovers, people who want to fine dine

Driving Time: 1 hour (45 miles)

What to see and do – Day 1 – Newport Beach is another place full of attractions and sights.

Let’s start by mentioning that Newport has some of the most luxurious hotels in this part of the coast.  If you are up for the experience, check out The Resort at Pelican Hill, The Lido House, and the Balboa Bay Resort.

There is a lot to do and see at the Balboa Peninsula.  The area counts with two piers, a fun zone, beaches, walking trails or paths, and views of different man-made islands.  From the Balboa Pavillion, you can take a short cruise to see the area’s mansions from the water or a whale watching excursion (in season).

Or, you can take a short ferry to charming Balboa Island.  If you make it there, make sure you try a Balboa Bar.

For dinner, try a waterfront restaurant along the peninsula or the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).

What to see and do – Day 2 – On this day there are many options.  You can walk or practice watersports on Newport’s Upper Bay.

You can also explore the Corona del Mar neighborhood.  This part of town has gardens, parks, the Corona del Mar State Beach, and the Little Corona del Mar Cove (one of my favorite places).  

If you are into hiking, you should visit Crystal Cove State Park.  This place is a gem. You can walk 3 miles along the coastline and many more miles along El Moro Canyon.  The coastline trails are flat and easy. Get prepared for the views since they are mind-blowing! There are places to eat inside the park.

Newport is a shopping paradise too. Head to Fashion Island or nearby South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa.

Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, Newport Beach

Anaheim

Ideal for: Families with kids, people into amusement parks

Driving Time: 1 hour (30 miles)

What to see and do – Day 1 – I do not even have to mention what to do in Anaheim.  Most people visiting the city head to the Disney parks.

A lot of my friends stay at the Great Wolf Lodge when visiting Anaheim.  In that way, they can use the indoor water park facilities.

What to see and do – Day 2 – A lot of people do Disneyland one day and Disney California Adventure Park the other day.

You can also visit Knott’s Berry Farm (the prices are way better) or Soak City USA in nearby Buena Park.  

Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, Disneyland, Anaheim

Big Bear

Ideal for: Hikers, skiers (during winter), outdoor activities lovers

Driving Time: 2:00 – 2:30  hours (120 miles)

What to see and do – Day 1 – We have mountain escapes close to Los Angeles too! Proof of this is Big Bear, a city located in the San Bernardino mountains and known for its lake (a man-made reservoir).

This is a four seasons resort.  During winter, skiing, snow tubing, and sledding are popular things to do.  Many people rent a cabin and enjoy that rare thing called snow.

During the summer, there are several beaches around the lake.  You can rent jet skis or take a narrated cruise to places of interest.

Hiking is popular too during the warm season.  There are trails that take visitors to spots from where you can admire views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Big Bear has a charming village full of restaurants, cafes, shops, and even a movie theater.  It is difficult to get bored here.

What to see and do – Day 2 – You can continue enjoying the lake features or visit another lake.  I love Lake Arrowhead since the buildings surrounding this private lake were built to resemble an Alpine village.

You can also visit Lake Gregory, a place that resembles more a water park in the middle of the mountains.

Read More: What to Do in Big Bear

Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, Big Bear

Temecula

Ideal for: Fans of Old Towns, wine lovers

Driving Time: 1:30 hours (85 miles)

What to see and do – Day 1 – Temecula is a place to brunch at leisure and drink wine.  Add to that a couple of hours inside a spa or lounging next to a pool.  I guess you get the idea. This is another place to relax.

There is a big farmers market every Saturday morning in Old Town.  I will start my day by stopping there to eat and buy fruit, sweets, and jam.

Then, it is time to head to the wineries.  A lot of people head to places such as Wilson Creek, South Coast Winery, Ponte, and Mount Palomar.  Since these places are very popular, expect big crowds and high prices.

You can opt to visit the smaller wineries.  Just make sure you make a reservation when needed (many of the smaller places operate like this).

What to see and do – Day 2 – You can continue wine tasting on this day.

Or, you can head to Lake Hemet, Vail Lake, or the Santa Rosa Plateau.  In addition, you can spend some time with alpacas or visit the Pechanga Casino & Resort.

Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, Temecula

Coastal Northern San Diego County

Ideal for: Surfers, beach and nature lovers

Driving Time: 1:30 hours (95 miles)

What to see and do – Day 1 – This is yet another area that is completely understated.  I adore coming here.

To start, I recommend getting out of the freeway once you hit Oceanside and moving from town to town using Highway 101.  In that way, you will be able to get a better feeling of the different towns.

In Oceanside, visit the pier, the excellent surf museums, and the harbor.  You can have breakfast at the Beach Break Cafe (try the coffee cake) and deviate a bit from the coast to visit the San Luis Rey Mission.

You can camp at Guajome Regional Park or at San Onofre (Orange County).

Then, it is time to visit Carlsbad, a place known for its village, beaches, lagoons, premium outlets, flower fields (in season), and Museum Making Music.  It is also home to LEGOLAND California Resort.

People are rave about a restaurant called Campfire (everything is cooked on an open flame).

What to see and do – Day 2 – Head to Encinitas, one of the most famous surf towns in California.  In there, hit the beaches, the shops along PCH, and the San Diego Botanic Garden.

Make sure not to miss Solana Beach.  Some people may not know about this place but believe me when I say that you should visit the Cedros Design District. This place is full of shops, galleries, art centers, wine tasting rooms, a brewery, and restaurants.  This is a great place to chill after a day at the beach.

Read More: Things to Do in Solana Beach

Solana Beach Things to Do, Cliffs and rocks at Tide Beach Park, the northern beach in the city of Solana Beach, San Diego, California

Julian and Inland San Diego County

Ideal for: Those with a sweet tooth, hikers, those who want to leave the big city behind

What to see and do – Day 1 – I am going to try to convince you to visit Julian in the following way: if you like apple pie, go.  If you do not like apple pie, go. To be honest, it doesn’t matter. Julian will make you love apple pie.  The bad thing is that you will not see apple pie the same ever again.

Julian, once a mining town, is all about apples.  Think along the lines of pie, crumble, turnovers, donuts, and cider.  It is delicious and I recommend eating as much as possible. In town, you can visit the mine, wine taste, or have a meal at an old-fashioned soda fountain.

In addition, you can pick apples (in season), walk around the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve or Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, and camp at William Hesse County Park.

What to see and do – Day 2 – Instead of heading back some using Road 78, take Road 79 and connect to Road 76.  Have pie once again at Santa Ysabel and head to Lake Henshaw.

Or, head to Palomar Mountain State Park.  The Palomar Observatory is a super cool sight.  

Read More: Julian Dressed in Red, White and Blue

Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, Palomar Observatory

San Diego

Ideal for: Pretty much everybody.  San Diego has a lot to offer and it is one of the best cities in California (and the entire United States).

Driving Time: 2 hours (120 miles)

What to see and do – Day 1 – It is impossible to see San Diego on a weekend.  This is a place that can be broken into a dozen weekend getaways from Los Angeles.

But, assuming we have two days to see it, I will head to Little Italy’s Mercato Saturday morning.  This is one of the best weekend markets in Southern California. There are a lot of delicious things to eat and the entire place feels like a carnival.

Then, it is time to head to Cabrillo National Monument to see great views of the San Diego Bay.  In addition, this place is ideal for learning the role San Diego placed during the Spanish Conquest.  Do not forget to visit the tidepools area before leaving.

On your drive back, stop by the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery and by the Sunset Cliffs.  Spend the late afternoon, in Ocean Beach. Stroll the pier, eat one of Hodad’s burgers or hang out at Pizza Port.

What to see and do – Day 2 – It is hard to choose what to do on Day 2 but I would choose to visit La Jolla since it is one of the most beautiful places in San Diego.  Walk along Coast Boulevard and kayak around the caves in the area (there are tons of seas lions in the water).

If you want to explore beyond the coast, head to Balboa Park.  Here you can visit the World Famous San Diego Zoo, museums, gardens, and cultural venues.

After exploring the park, you can stop by Gaslamp Quarter or North Park.

Read More: La Jolla in Photos

Torrey Pines: Hikes and Trails

San Diego, Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

Recommendations

As previously mentioned, try to leave Los Angeles early Saturday morning to make the most out of your trip.

Do not sub estimate the time it is going to take you to get back home.  I have noticed it takes longer to get back home during warm months. Keep checking road conditions on Sunday evening so you depart towards Los Angeles at a reasonable time.

If possible, extend your trip an extra day.  I love how quiet are certain places during the week.

Keep your getaway affordable by planning ahead of time.  In that way, you can save some money.

If you are into saving, be creative with where you spend the night.  You can camp or glamp.

Keep a small cooler with drinks and snacks on your trunk.

Make sure your car has enough gas, the tire pressure is right and you are traveling a slightly as possible.

All of the places I have mentioned have free or low-cost attractions.  Concentrate on those if you are on a budget.

If you are time-crunched, put your getaway in the calendar and make it a reality.

Remember you do not have to travel far or spend a lot of money to have a great adventure!

More Getaways

Find out how to do an LA to San Diego Drive on a weekend.  My full guide shows you how to do it.

If you have more time, check out my Pacific Coast Highway 5-Day Itinerary.

More of Southern California

Find out how to spend one fun-filled day in Los Angeles

Get inspiration by reading my Los Angeles Ultimate Bucket List

Ultimate San Diego Bucket List

150+ Places to Go in Orange County

What is your favorite weekend getaway from Los Angeles?

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The best weekend getaways from Los Angeles – Travel tips and ideas – Looking what to do this weekend? What about going outside the city and having some fun? This article will help you to plan your next getaway from Los Angeles. With so many options, the questions would be, where I should go? #California #LA #roadtrip #SantaBarbara #SanDiego #Ventura #HuntingtonBeach #Julian #BigBear #NewportBeach #Temecula #Anaheim #Disney

The best weekend getaways from Los Angeles – Travel tips and ideas – Looking what to do this weekend? What about going outside the city and having some fun? This article will help you to plan your next getaway from Los Angeles. With so many options, the questions would be, where I should go? #California #LA #roadtrip #SantaBarbara #SanDiego #Ventura #HuntingtonBeach #Julian #BigBear #NewportBeach #Temecula #Anaheim #Disney

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Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley are two ski areas covered under one lift ticket. Squaw Valley hosted the 1960 Olympics and is a favorite of many professional skiers. The fifth-largest ski area in North America has a fun party atmosphere is Heavenly Mountain Resort, which has plenty of terrain and is the. Read More: Drive Around Lake Tahoe Bike Across the Golden Gate Bridge By Luda from Adventures with Luda If you’re traveling to San Francisco and looking for a fun (and adventurous) activity, rent a bike and get to pedaling across the Golden Gate Bridge! I recommend this for three main reasons: you’ll see amazing views of the San Francisco bay, work off some calories (psst - Japantown has some pretty great restaurants!), and you can explore other cities. There are plenty of places to rent a bike, but I recommend picking a company in the Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood since it’s closest to the Bridge. The 20-minute bike ride over to the starting point will take you through some fairly flat streets, and you can stop near Crissy Field if you’d like to take a few photos of the waterfront. When biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, it’s important to note that there are two sidewalks: one is for pedestrians, and the other is for bikers. If you don’t know which one to take, just take a look at where everyone else is going or ask one of the employees at the concession stand. If you’re flexible on timing, you can bike all the way across the bridge and explore the neighboring town of Tiburon. This cozy little town is famous for its quirky boutiques, grassy parks, and scenic waterfront. If you plan to make the trip to Tiburon, ask the bike rental employee for a bicycle lock, as there are plenty of bicycle “parking” near the waterfront. Read More: Los Angeles to San Francisco Drive Book a Spot at the Sonoma Wine Trolley By Taima from Poor in a Private Plane If you are looking for a unique way to discover Sonoma then check out the Sonoma Wine Trolley. The tour begins in downtown Sonoma which is a great place to grab a bite before starting your wine adventure. Grab a bite at Sunflower Cafe and then make your way to Sonoma Plaza where you will board your wheels for the day. The wine trolley is a replica of a vintage California Street Cable Car used in San Francisco in the early 1900s. It’s an excellent way to experience Sonoma Valley in the open air trolley. The tour will take you to four different wineries with a stop for lunch. At one of the wineries you will be served a picnic lunch catered by The Girl and The Fig, one of the best restaurants in Sonoma. Once you have visited all four wineries the tour will drop you back off at Sonoma Plaza where you will have your pick of places to have dinner before turning in for the night. Whether it is your first time visiting Sonoma or you’re looking for a new way to experience Sonoma, the Sonoma Wine Trolley is a truly unique and fun experience. Photo by Taima Taste Craft Beer at the Russian River Brewery By Derek from Robe Trotting Napa and Sonoma valleys are rightly world-renowned for the vineyards, but one of my favorite stops in Sonoma valley was actually one of the best craft breweries in the world. Russian River Brewing Company has become world-famous for its Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger IPAs, hailed by many aficionados as the best beers in the world (Pliny the Younger is brewed once a year and is an especially hot ticket to enjoy). But they offer more than just IPAs, as their sours (named Consecration, Supplication, and Temptation) are world-class. Russian River now offers two locations in Sonoma Valley, including their original taproom in Santa Rosa and a new brewery and brewpub in Windsor. The Santa Rosa location can get packed in evenings, but they offer excellent pizzas and wings to pair with the beers. The Windsor location has a little less traffic and offers a broader menu, plus you can take a tour of their brewery. Visit the Mystery Spot By Rosie from Popcuria The Mystery Spot is a fun and quirky addition to any California trip and a great activity for all ages. This classic roadside attraction is now a California Historical Landmark and worth a stop on any drive up Highway One. Tucked away in the redwoods just outside of Santa Cruz, CA, the Mystery Spot is home to strange gravitational anomalies that will make you question your own eyes. Take the Mystery Spot’s guided tour and experience this supernatural phenomenon for yourself. Your tour will take you on a whimsical walk through the redwoods where the basics of physics do not seem to apply. Within the confines of the Mystery Spot, balls roll up hill instead of down and your friends and family appear taller and shorter than in real life. Take Instagram-worthy shots of your friends leaning off tables at unnatural angles inside the Spot’s topsy-turvy house. Snag the Mystery Spot’s bumper sticker at the end of your tour to commemorate your time at this iconic roadside pitstop. Read More: Santa Cruz Boardwalk in Pictures Hold a Baby Goat and Eat Cheese By Constance from Adventures of Panda Bear Harley Farms in Pescadero, CA is goat dairy farm located off of the northern California coast between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz. The farm has a variety of animals including chickens, a donkey, guardian llamas, Anatolian shepards, and of course, goats. All of the animals on the farm are working animals, the goats, in particular, provide milk for goat cheese. The farm’s dairy produces a variety of award-winning goat cheeses ranging from plain to cranberry walnut and garden chive, and more. The cheeses alone are well worth the visit! The best thing about visiting Harley Goat Farms is their baby goats. Take a farm tour during the spring months after the baby goats, or “kids” as they’re called, are born. Then, you’ll be able to see and hold a baby goat! The farm tour is also super informative and you’ll learn a lot about how to hold a baby goat, the farm’s operations, animals, and their cheese. The highlight of it all are definitely the baby goats, they are too cute! Stop by a Hot Spring By Athul from Our Backpack Tales Surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Glass Mountain Ridge in California is the Crowley Hot Springs also known as Wild Willy's Hot Springs. You can reach the trail close to US 395 by taking the Benton Crossing Road. The Crowley Hot Springs are open 24 hours a day and it is absolutely free. From the parking lot, you can see an elevated wooden walkway. A short walk of around 0.32 km through the beautiful backdrop of mountains is an amazing experience. The walkway slopes slightly downward and ends almost abruptly by the pools. It is about 10 feet wide and 3 feet deep, and you can easily take a dip in it! This hot spring contains one small and one large pool. The temperature in these pools can vary from 95 to 105 degrees. The bigger pool can accommodate a dozen of people but the small pool can accommodate some. The area surrounding the pool is stunning with mountains and grasslands in the backdrop. There are few option for camping in the surrounding area. These hot springs are in a fragile ecosystem so all should follow leave no trace behind policy to keep them clean. Things to Do in California - Central California Here are some of the things you can do around California’s Central area. If you ask me, this is one of the most thrilling parts of the state. Drive Around Big Sur By Dhara from It's Not About the Miles Driving the Big Sur stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway between Carmel and Ragged Point should be high on your list of things to do in California. Considered one of the most scenic coastlines on the planet, the drive gives you the opportunity to enjoy magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Central California coastline. Just a little over 75 miles in length, Highway One hugs the water for most of this route. Where it does not, for short stretches, you will drive through towering redwoods or bucolic countryside. There are numerous pullouts where you can park and enjoy the views at leisure, and take lots of photos. Some of the best places to stop on the Big Sur Coast drive include Point Lobos State park, just south of the quaint village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the very wild Garrapata State Park, with hiking trails if you want to stretch your legs, and the historic Bixby Creek Bridge, considered an engineering marvel. Drive the road in late spring after the rains are over, and you will see gorgeous wildflowers along the road. The hills are green at this time as well, and look gorgeous against the blue of the ocean. Ride a Buggy at the Oceano Dunes By Sharon from Daily Dream 360 If you are looking for a little adventure on the beach, you may want to consider a dune buggy ride at Oceano Dunes State Park, which is located 3 miles from Pismo Beach. This activity is a great add-on when visiting the San Luis Obispo region of California. You will find plenty of Dune Buggy rental companies just outside the state park entrance. Once you complete a vehicle orientation, you'll be driven to the site within the state park and get set up with your vehicles. Your tour operator will offer directions, a map and will guide you to the area where you are allowed to drive your buggy. The park has a designated area for off-road vehicles and several restrictions with regards to speed. What I loved about the Dune Buggy ride was that I was able to choose my level of thrill. Some of the Sand Dunes were very high, and there was a high risk from coming down from a dune and getting stuck before moving back up another. For thrill-seekers, there is plenty of challenging dunes to conquer. For those less adventurous, there were some smaller hills and the very scenic ride along the ocean. Photo by Sharon Read More: Things to Do in Pismo Beach Things to Do in Avila Beach Things to Do in California - Southern California This is the part of the state I call home. After more than 15 years living here, I am still discovering new places. Check out the super fun recommendations below! Road Cycle in Santa Barbara County By Clare from Epic Road Rides If you fancy a spot of road cycling, Santa Barbara County in southern California, is a fantastic place to do it. It's a beautiful region that’s warm and sunny for much of the year. Winters tend to be short and mild. Head to the Santa Ynez valley and you’ll find quiet rolling roads that take you through gorgeous vineyards and pretty ranches with wide open fields dotted with well-groomed horses. In the village of Solvang, you’ll find an excellent bike shop that can fit you out with everything you need (you can rent too) and set you off to explore the countryside. There are around 120 wineries in this area, clustered around the pretty towns and villages of Solvang, Los Olivos and Santa Ynez. Many cyclists take the opportunity to combine cycling with a wine tour as many of the wineries open their doors to people who want to come and learn about wine and enjoy some wine tasting. Exploring by bike is the best way to really get to know a region, and I highly recommend the Santa Ynez Valley! Photo by Clare Read More: Things to Do in Solvang Mountain Bike at Snow Summit By Heather from That OC Girl If you thought Big Bear’s Snow Summit was only for winter, you got it wrong. In the summertime, the ski lifts at Snow Summit are transformed into mountain bike lifts, taking you up to an elevation of 8,000 feet and dropping you into the coolest downhill bike park in Southern California. Snow Summit has around 18 miles of mountain bike trails, including trails for the beginner all the way to the most advanced riders. The beginner level trail “Going Green” is the longest in the park at 2.5 miles, and is the most basic of all. It’s a great idea to start with this trail to get warmed up! The blue-rated trails are the most fun; this is where you can really let loose and sharpen your skills. The trails rated as black diamond are the most difficult trails in the park. You will find built-in features like jumps and berms, but most of the time you can bypass those features if you are not up for the challenge. Get some practice in at the Base Area to improve your skills before attempting those difficult trails! Day or season passes are available and the park is open to all – kids and adults! Open and closing dates. Photo by Heather Read More: Big Bear Weekend Guide Dive the Channel Islands By James from Travel Collecting One of the top things to do in California is to dive the Channel Islands. There are eight Channel Islands off the coast of Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Five of them make up the Channel Islands National Park. The largest, Catalina Island, has places to stay and shore dives as well as boat dives are available. However, you can take day trips straight from just north of LA (Ventura Harbor) to Anacapa Island and just south of LA (San Pedro) to dive sites around Catalina. Dive boats also leave from Santa Barbra to the northern islands, though these are further offshore. The main attraction is diving the Californian giant kelp forests. Kelp stretches from the sea bed up more than forty feet to the surface, creating a magical forest to swim through. Winding your way through a thick screen of golden kelp is an incredible experience. The kelp is home to cheeky seals and sea lions that zoom out of nowhere and right up to your mask, as well as bright orange garibaldi fish. This was one of my favorite dives from the many I have done around the world. It also makes a nice contrast to the other more urban things you can do in Los Angeles. Hike to the Hollywood Sign By Caroline from Pictures and Words Few things scream LA more than the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and the movie industry. One of the coolest things to do in California is to hike up to the Hollywood sign, one of the most iconic sights in LA. Technically, the sign itself is blocked off (and don’t even try to jump the fence) so you are hiking to right behind and above the sign. Still, this is the closest you can get to the sign being able to get so up and close to the iconic monument is such a cool experience! The hike starts inside Griffith Park, from where you can take the Brush Canyon trail. It is a 6.5 mile out and back hike, and is rated moderate difficulty with an 1100 foot elevation gain. Allow about 2 1/2-3 hours to complete the hike. Also be aware that there is hardly any shade on the trail and it tends to get really hot, really fast, so be prepared and carry lots of water with you. Read More: One Day in LA: Itinerary for First-Time Visitors 2 Days in Los Angeles: Downtown-Based Itinerary Self-Guided Multicultural Tour of Los Angeles By Team Hazard Rides Again LA is incredibly diverse. There are people here from every corner of the Earth and LA is happy to give each culture its due. Tim and I once went to 3 cultural events in a single weekend – and we weren't even trying hard. On Friday night we went to a chamber music concert at the big Downtown Library. On Saturday night we were in Hollywood to see Amadou and Mariam, a blind couple from Mali who rocked the Afro-pop scene at the El Rey Theater. And on Sunday we were in Chinatown for a big cultural celebration. There is no single recipe for doing a cultural tour of Los Angeles. There are just too many options. But here are some places to look so you can put together your own multicultural tour of Los Angeles. There are neighborhoods throughout the city like Little Tokyo, Olvera Street, Little Ethiopia, Little Bangladesh and Chinatown, just to name a few. Some of them are a bit touristy, but still fun and there are also many unnamed enclaves where various cultures flourish. They often hold festivals as well. And Long Beach seems to have a festival for something every other week. Keep an eye on local calendars. There are also exhibits and performances exploring different cultures all over town. The Craft and Folk Art Museum on Wilshire almost always has something culturally unique going on, as does the Fowler Museum on the UCLA Campus. You can also check out the USC Pacific Asia Museum in Pasadena. Again, to name just a few. Then there are the performances, like Amadou and Mariam we mentioned above, or Prince Diabate whom we saw in some tiny club in Santa Monica. One of the best places to look for these more eclectic events is the LA Weekly. LA's multiculturalism is one of its most awesome features and it's something not to be missed if you're visiting the city. It's easy to stack events that are near you or that suit the dates of your visit. It's LA. There's always something going on! Hike in Joshua Tree National Park By Julie from Family Travel Lifestyle While California is famous for National Parks like Yosemite and the Redwoods, one of our lesser-known parks, Joshua Tree, offers fantastic hiking in a unique desert environment. Located in southern California – just east of Palm Springs, and less than a 3-hour drive from San Diego – Joshua Tree offers numerous trails at every level of hiking. What I love about Joshua Tree is that it isn’t as crowded as many other parks and it’s smaller which means you can do a one-day visit and still get in some great hikes and really feel as though you saw the park. Also, this park offers a lot of loop trails, which I tend to prefer to the ‘out and back’ trails. One of the most popular and can’t-miss trails in Joshua Tree is the Skull Rock loop. It’s pretty easy, good for all levels including children, and you get to see the famous and giant Skull-shaped boulder. There’s a great kids’ nature walk called the Discovery Trail that’s less than a mile if you have really little ones. The bigger hikes offer a great variety of sights. There are several hikes up to different peaks, with outstanding views of the mountains and desert. You can hike out to a palm tree oasis or walk through the boulders and include a little scrambling on your hike. The one thing to watch out for is the heat – it’s no joke at Joshua Tree, so come prepared and enjoy! VIsit the Sunny Jim Sea Caves By April from SoCalFunFamily La Jolla is known for the locals who hang around the beach. And no, I am not talking about the hodads, you know, non-surfers, but the friendly seals lounging right there on the sand. It’s also known as an incredibly fun family area, for its good food, and having the coolest sea caves. However, there is only one cave you can explore without a kayak. And that cave is only accessible through Sunny Jim’s Cave Store. From the exterior it looks just like any other beach themed gift shop, but upon further review you might see the long dark tunnel leading what looks like directly into the ground. This is the access to Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave, which was dug out in 1902. To reach the bottom you will pay $5 for adults, and $3 for children, walk down 145 dark, narrow stairs and come out on a damp wooden platform to take in the waves and views from below. This hidden gem is a unique experience if you are in the area. But, make sure to mingle with the locals on the shore below and check out the free, smaller caves right there as well. Read More: One Day in San Diego Pedal Boat At Lake Murray By Martina from Stack Your Dollars One of the best and most relaxing things to do in sunny San Diego is to take a ride on the water at Lake Murray. On a hot day, getting on a pedal boat is a great way to get a nice breeze and cool off. You’ll also be putting those leg muscles to work and getting in some fun exercise! Lake Murray is a 171 acre reservoir with a 3.2 mile shoreline; it can be found on the border of San Diego, La Mesa, and Santee. To rent the pedal boat, you have to go into the concession stand by the parking lot. It costs about $15 to rent per hour, with an additional $15 for a deposit. The boat fits about 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children. This low-cost activity is a great way to get out and have fun. It allowed my family to stick to our very frugal budget. If you would prefer, there are also kayaks, canoes, row boats, and motor boats. However, the pedal boat is my favorite because it also has a canopy to block the sun! Whale Watch in Newport Beach By Rebecca from KwaFare One of the most thrilling outdoor experiences you can have in California is to get up close and personal with some of the largest animals on earth. Whale watching in Southern California can put you right in the migratory path of humpback, minke, fin and gray whales. Even orcas are spotted from time to time, as well as sperm whales and blue whales, the largest animal to have ever lived. An excellent spot for whale watching is Newport Beach, which is only about an hour from LAX airport or downtown Los Angeles. Newport Beach is a cozy community where you’ll find Balboa Pier and Island and some great beaches. My go to whale watching company here is Davey’s Locker. And for good reason. First, they regularly have sales for their whale watching tours on Groupon. So, for about the price of a movie ticket you can take a front row seat to these magnificent creatures for over a couple of hours. But what I really enjoy is hearing the excitement of the crew every time we get to see a whale out at sea. This testifies to just how electrifying it is to witness these deep sea giants in their natural habitat. Despite how many times they get to see them, every time it’s a thrill. And the thrill is definitely contagious. You just never know what you are going to see when you get out on the boat. However, if you want to up your chances of sighting whales go out during their migration times. In general, winter and spring are great times to see gray whales, humpback and minke whales. And summer and fall are ideal for blue whales, finbacks, orcas and sperm whales. So whether you find yourself in the middle of a pod of hundreds of dolphins or next to an enormous blue whale, this is one of those things to do in California that is not to be missed! Visit the Center of the World By Theresa from The Local Tourist Just inside the border in the southeast corner of the state, you can put your toes on the officially designated Center of the World. Felicity, California, is home to the Museum of History in Granite and the Center of the World and is a destination worth a visit that's a whole lot less kitschy than it sounds. In 1985, Jacques-André wrote a children’s book titled “Coe: The Good Dragon at the Center of the World.” Somehow, this Frenchman and Father of American Parachuting convinced the Imperial County Board of Supervisors and Institut Géographique National, the French Mapping Agency, that property he owned in Imperial County should be declared the Center of the World. You can visit this town, population two, and not only make a wish inside a pyramid but also browse granite tablets etched with history. They're designed to last 4,000 years and the goal is that they'll preserve the entirety of humanity for millennia to come. It's a quirky destination with a noble promise, and should definitely be on any southern California itinerary. ATV in the Imperial Sand Dunes By Kay from The Awkard Traveler It isn't general knowledge, but California has sand dunes. Some of the best California sand dunes are found in Southern California. Specifically, the Imperial Sand Dunes State Park right near the border of Mexico. Winter is arguable a better season to visit, especially when summer temperatures can easily reach over 110F. But that also means winter is the most busy time to visit. So, pick your poison. From San Diego, the drive is about 2.5hours, 2 hours from Palm Springs, and 3 hours from Los Angeles, making the Imperial Sand Dunes an easy day trip if you do not want to stay nearby. However, there are camping and RV options at the state park! To enter the park, permits are required from October 1 through April 15 each year. Permits are $35 per week in advance and $50 per week if purchased onsite. Season permits are $150. America the Beautiful National Park pass also counts for this park. Once you are all settled into the park, you're ready to ride! But before you get into your off-highway vehicle (whether it is ATV or a bike, or other), make sure to remember the basics. Wear a protective helmet, pay attention to "closed to vehicle signs," and tall visible red flags are REQUIRED on your vehicle for visibility and safety! There you have it! Tons and tons of ideas on things to do in California. Hope you find this article useful when planning your next getaway! More of California Los Angeles Ultimate Bucket List Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles Ultimate San Diego Bucket List 150+ Places to Go in Orange County Places to Visit in Santa Barbara What are your favorite things to do in California? Let me know in the comments section below. Pin “Things to Do in California” for later!, Pigeon Point LighthouseThings to Do in California: Golden State Best Things to do in San Diego, must see in San Diego, san diego a listSan Diego Bucket List: What to Do, See and Eat

Comments

  1. Tiffany says

    I’m always looking for ways to add multiple locations to our travel itinerary. This guide has helped for planning our CA trip. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

  2. Candice Marie says

    Love me a weekend getaway! These are great suggestions for travellers and people living in LA and so many different options! Great post!!

    Reply

  3. Clazz - An Orcadian Abroad says

    These all look amazing!! I actually spent a night in Ventura but didn’t do anything there as I didn’t know what there was to do lol. I totally agree that San Diego is one of the best cities, so that would probably be #1 on my list! But Solvang looks AMAZING too! And that building in Temecula. 🙂

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