Maybe you’ve seen the obvious places in LA like Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Park and Hollywood.
But now you just want something a bit different.
Well if you want a day trip that you’ve NOT DONE then this post will DEFINITELY deliver.
This post lists 20 day trip ideas that leave from Los Angeles with approximate driving times from downtown LA.
Here’s how we’ve broken down the list of 20 day trips from LA:
- 9 best day trips
- 7 honorable mention day trips
- 4 ‘If you’re crazy’ day trips
Everything from desert landscapes, sun-kissed beaches and charming little hidden gem towns.
There’s something for EVERYONE on this list.
Fuel up your car.
Let’s go! 🚗
Table of Contents
Best Day Trips From LA
1. Catalina Island
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: 30-45 minutes to Long Beach, plus 1-hour ferry ride.
Catalina Island is a picturesque escape off the coast of Southern California.
Once you arrive by ferry, you can dive into a range of activities, from snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters to exploring the charming town of Avalon.
Hiking, zip-lining, and relaxing on the beach are also popular.
The island offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, making it a perfect day trip destination.
2. Ojai Valley
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: 1.5 to 2 hours.
Nestled in a scenic valley, Ojai is known for its bohemian spirit, lush landscapes, and a relaxing atmosphere that invites visitors to slow down.
You can browse local art galleries, indulge in organic spa treatments, or wander through citrus groves.
Ojai’s boutique shops and farm-to-table restaurants add to its allure, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
3. Balboa Island
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 1 hour.
Balboa Island presents a quaint and charming experience with its small-town vibe right in the heart of Orange County.
Stroll along Marine Avenue for unique shopping and dining, or take a leisurely walk around the island to enjoy beautiful views and grand beach houses.
Don’t miss the famous Balboa Island Ferry and the fun frozen banana treats.
It’s a delightful way to spend a day, offering a slice of coastal life that feels worlds away from the city.
4. Malibu
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: Roughly 1 hour.
Malibu is a coastal city that epitomizes the Southern California lifestyle, with its stunning beaches, legendary surf spots, and upscale dining.
Visitors can explore the rugged beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains, visit the iconic Malibu Pier, or tour the historic Adamson House.
Whether you’re looking to catch some waves at Zuma Beach or enjoy a quiet moment at the secluded El Matador Beach, Malibu offers an array of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery.
5. Santa Barbara and Montecito
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: Around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Santa Barbara and Montecito are nestled along the picturesque central California coast, offering a blend of Mediterranean charm and laid-back luxury.
Visitors can wander through Santa Barbara’s historic missions, explore upscale boutiques, or relax on pristine beaches.
Montecito, with its secluded feel and beautiful gardens, complements the experience, making the area a perfect spot for those seeking both culture and tranquility by the sea.
6. Temecula
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 1.5 to 2 hours.
Temecula stands out as Southern California’s premier wine country destination, boasting rolling hills dotted with vineyards and rustic charm.
Wine enthusiasts can indulge in tastings and tours at numerous wineries, each offering unique experiences from barrel tasting to picturesque picnics.
Related Reading: Temecula Guide
Beyond the vines, Temecula’s Old Town provides a glimpse into the past with its historic buildings, antique shops, and specialty boutiques, making it a well-rounded day trip for all tastes.
7. San Juan Capistrano
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 1 hour and 15 minutes.
San Juan Capistrano is renowned for its historic mission, Mission San Juan Capistrano, which offers a deep dive into California’s early history with beautiful gardens and ruins to explore.
The town itself is filled with charming shops and restaurants, making it a perfect blend of culture and relaxation.
Bird enthusiasts will especially enjoy the annual return of the swallows, a natural event that has put San Juan Capistrano on the map.
8. San Clemente
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: Roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes.
San Clemente, known as the “Spanish Village by the Sea,” offers a picturesque setting with its oceanfront views and Spanish colonial-style architecture.
Visitors can stroll along the San Clemente Pier, surf at Trestles, or walk the beach trail for stunning coastal vistas.
The city’s laid-back atmosphere, combined with boutique shops, casual cafes, and seafood restaurants, makes it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind and soak in the Southern California sun.
9. Dana Point
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Dana Point is a coastal gem with a stunning harbor that serves as a gateway to aquatic adventures and leisurely seaside strolls.
The area is renowned for its excellent whale watching opportunities, particularly for spotting majestic gray and blue whales depending on the season.
Related Reading: California Whale Watching
Beach enthusiasts will enjoy the beautiful sands of Doheny State Beach and Salt Creek Beach.
With its mix of outdoor activities, Dana Point is a hotspot for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful day by the sea.
Honorable Mentions
These are awesome places to visit, but the driving time is slightly longer for most of these which is why they’re on the honorable mention list instead.
10. Solvang
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 2.5 hours.
Solvang offers a unique Danish experience with its windmills, bakeries, and wineries, perfect for cultural enthusiasts and foodies.
11. Joshua Tree
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 2.5 hours.
Joshua Tree National Park is an otherworldly desert landscape ideal for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers.
12. Palm Springs
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 2 hours.
Palm Springs is known for its mid-century modern architecture, luxurious resorts, and hot springs, appealing to relaxation seekers and design aficionados.
13. San Diego
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: Approximately 2 hours.
San Diego boasts beautiful beaches, the famous San Diego Zoo, and a vibrant cultural scene, suitable for families and beach-goers.
14. Solana Beach
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 1.5-2 hours.
Solana Beach features a charming coastal town vibe with boutique shopping, artsy galleries, and stunning beaches, perfect for those who appreciate a quieter seaside experience.
15. Idyllwild
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 2 to 2.5 hours.
Idyllwild offers a peaceful mountain escape with arts, crafts, and hiking, ideal for creatives and outdoor enthusiasts.
16. Big Bear Lake
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: Around 2 hours.
Big Bear Lake is a year-round destination for skiing, hiking, and water sports, appealing to adventure seekers and nature lovers.
If You’re Crazy
These are for the people who like to be on the road, don’t mind getting up before the sun and thrive on the feeling of having an exhausting day.
You can TECHNICALLY do these as day trips if you really want, but it’s probably better if you stay overnight.
17. Cambria
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 4 hours.
Cambria is a quaint coastal town known for its dramatic seaside cliffs and pine forests, ideal for those seeking a tranquil retreat far from city life.
18. Las Vegas
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 4 to 4.5 hours.
Las Vegas offers an unparalleled entertainment experience with its casinos, shows, and nightlife, perfect for those looking for excitement and non-stop fun.
19. Death Valley National Park
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 4 hours.
Death Valley National Park is the hottest, driest, and lowest national park, offering stunning desert vistas and extreme adventures for the most daring explorers.
20. Sequoia National Park
Approximate driving time from downtown LA: About 3.5 to 4 hours.
Sequoia National Park is home to some of the largest trees on earth, offering breathtaking natural beauty and hiking opportunities for nature enthusiasts and those looking to marvel at the giants of the forest.