Day Trips from Los Angeles

Los Angeles has a lot to offer, but if you're staying awhile, you might want to venture outside the city on a day trip. From desert wildlife to historic and cultural landmarks, here are some great areas to visit on a Los Angeles day trip.

Santa Barbara (View Map)

A popular vacation spot for Hollywood types, Santa Barbara is a relaxing alternative to the activity of the city. With its multitude of historic Spanish missions, you truly get a sense of California's cultural past. Wine-tasting can be had at several vineyards which dot the surrounding lanscape. Students of the University of California, Santa Barbara create a college-town atmosphere with enough shopping and nightlife for those who want to get away for the weekend without giving up entertainment. The drive from L.A. along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway is beautiful, and short enough that you can make this a true Los Angeles day trip if you can't stay the weekend. For more information, visit the official Santa Barbara Visitor's Guide. Approximately 95 miles from Los Angeles

San Luis Obispo & Hearst Castle (View Map)

A few hours up the coast lies San Luis Obispo, a friendly beach community that serves as a great launching point for exploring the central coast. Drive north 45 minutes to tour the lavish former home of William Randolph Hearst, or drive south 15 minutes to dine on fried clams in Pismo Beach. If you're looking for an experience to remember, stay a night in the famous Madonna Inn, which offers unique themed rooms and a kitchy pink bar/restaurant. Because of the distance, San Luis Obispo is better for weekend getaways than day trips from Los Angeles. For more information, visit the San Luis Obispo County Travel Guide. Approximately 200-250 miles from Los Angeles

San Diego (View Map)

As the other large city in southern California, San Diego offers an urban environment with a laid-back surfer attitude. It's considered to have the best weather on the west coast, so there's truly no bad time of the year to make this day trip from Los Angeles. The Gaslamp District is full of shopping and restaurants, while Old Town offers a historic look at southern California. Also popular are the famous San Diego Zoo, Sea World and Lego Land (for the kids). For more information, visit the San Diego Convention & Visitor's Bureau. Approximately 120 miles from Los Angeles

Palm Springs (View Map)

Known as a playground for the stars of classic Hollywood, Palm Springs still makes a quiet and relaxing getaway for Angelenos. Spend the weekend at one of the areas day spas for the ultimate in desert relaxation. Or view local wildlife and landscapes from one of the areas many hiking trails. For a unique experience, take the Aerial Tram to the top of the mountains and discover the cool, woodland climate high above the city. You'll also find plenty of restaurants and a few bars frequented by the local folk who live there year-round. On your way back, stop at the outlet malls for some great deals or try your luck at the Morongo casino. For more information, visit the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism. Aproximately 100 miles from Los Angeles

Joshua Tree National Park (View Map)

If you're seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park might be just the ticket. A few hours into the desert, Joshua Tree is named for the cactus-like trees which cover the quite and peaceful landscape. Despite its barren appearances, the park is full of wildlife and beautiful rock formations that warrant expending a whole roll of film. If you want to get close to nature, Joshua Tree's terrain is perfect for hiking, backpacking, camping and birdwatching. Don't miss Keys View, a lookout point that offers an expansive view of the Salton Sea, the San Andreas Fault, and even Mexico on a sunny day. For park information, visit the National Park Service's Joshua Tree Guide. Approximately 130 miles from Los Angeles