Whether you’re spending a week in Los Angeles or you’ve lived here for years, chances are you’ve heard about the incredible day trips from Los Angeles waiting just beyond the skyline. From beaches and mountains to vineyards and desert trails, these day trips make it easy to experience a completely different side of Southern California without going far.
At Hollywood Bus Tours, our guides explore the city every day—sharing stories, shortcuts, and local insight that help travelers make the most of their time. Once you’ve seen the highlights on one of our Hollywood tours—the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, and the Walk of Fame—you’ll have a perfect starting point for discovering more.
Each destination in this guide is under three hours from downtown, making it possible to get out of the city and still be back by nightfall. You’ll find day trip ideas for every traveler, whether you’re chasing coastal views in Malibu, sipping wine in Solvang, or hiking under the open sky in Big Bear.
And if you’re still planning your time in LA, don’t forget to hit all the classics in one easy day with The Perfect Day in LA Tour—a guided experience that takes you through Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica, so you can see the city’s top landmarks before setting out on your own best day trips from Los Angeles.
Best Day Trips From Los Angeles Along The Coast
Los Angeles is surrounded by some of California’s most scenic coastal escapes. Within a short drive, you can trade the energy of downtown LA for sea breezes, surf towns, and island adventures that make for a perfect day trip. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning a local getaway, these coastal spots capture the laid-back spirit of Southern California.
Visit Malibu and El Matador State Beach
A classic day trip along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), Malibu offers sweeping coastal views, sea caves, and oceanfront eateries where you can enjoy lunch with your feet in the sand. Visit Malibu’s El Matador State Beach to explore tide pools and sea arches, or meander along Carbon Beach, often called “Billionaire’s Beach.” It’s a short, scenic drive from West Hollywood—and a local favorite after exploring the Walk of Fame on one of our tours.
Visit Santa Monica and Venice Beach
For first-time visitors, this is as iconic as it gets. Stroll the Santa Monica Pier, ride the Ferris wheel, or wander the Venice Boardwalk lined with restaurants and shops. The area connects easily from Griffith Park and Wilshire, making it simple to add to your itinerary after sightseeing in Hollywood.
Catalina Island Adventures
Hop aboard the Catalina Express ferry for an unforgettable island getaway. Once you arrive in Avalon, you can snorkel, kayak, or explore the historic district filled with boutiques and art galleries. The ferry ride from Long Beach or San Pedro to Avalon takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes each way.
With morning departures, it’s entirely feasible to spend a full day snorkeling, kayaking, exploring the charming harbor town of Avalon, visiting the historic Catalina Casino, and enjoying scenic coastal views before returning to the mainland by evening. Careful planning and early departure ensure you maximize your time on this captivating island.
Coastal Gems of Orange County
Drive south toward Oceanside, San Clemente, and Newport Beach for smaller towns with wide sandy stretches and oceanfront cafés. Each offers a low-key coastal vibe perfect for families or couples who want to make a day of it without crowds.
Perfect Day Trips to the Mountains and Forests
When you need a break from palm trees and traffic, the mountains around Los Angeles offer a change of pace that feels worlds away. Crisp air, pine forests, and scenic hikes make these day trips ideal for travelers who want to get out of the city without going far.
Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead
A local favorite for every season, Big Bear is about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles and delivers that perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. In summer, you can rent kayaks, hike forest trails, or stop by a local brewery overlooking the water. Winter brings skiing, snowboarding, and cozy lodges surrounded by evergreens. Nearby Lake Arrowhead offers a quieter scene with boutique shops, mountain cabins, and short nature walks that are easy to fit into your itinerary.
Mount Baldy and the San Gabriel Mountains
If you prefer a shorter trip, Mount Baldy sits just a 1-hour drive from the city of angels and offers panoramic views that stretch all the way to the Pacific on clear days. It’s a favorite among hikers and photographers who enjoy scenic drives and high-elevation trails. On the way, make time to stop at Griffith Park or the Griffith Observatory—two landmarks that connect LA’s skyline with the mountain backdrop beyond.
Idyllwild
Tucked in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is an easy southern California day escape known for art galleries, forest trails, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. You can explore the town’s boutique shops, stop at a local eatery, or stroll through the pines before heading back down the mountain. It’s about 2.5 hours each way, making it one of the most scenic and rewarding day trips from LA for travelers who love small towns and fresh mountain air.
Desert Wonders and National Parks
Just a few hours east of Los Angeles, the landscape shifts from freeways and palm trees to open desert and rugged canyons. These day trips capture a completely different side of California—quiet, vast, and endlessly photogenic.
Joshua Tree National Park
With an early start, Joshua Tree National Park makes for one of the most unforgettable day trips from LA. The drive is roughly two and a half hours, but the payoff is immense: striking rock formations, twisted Joshua trees, and desert trails that feel a world away from the city. Spend the day exploring Hidden Valley or take a walk through the Cholla Cactus Garden. Don’t forget to arrive early and bring plenty of water—there are few services once you enter the park.
Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley
If you want a blend of design, food, and scenery, Palm Springs is an easy southern California day escape. Wander through the midcentury neighborhoods, have lunch at a local eatery, or ride the Aerial Tramway to Mount San Jacinto for cooler air and mountain views. The area’s art museums, vintage shops, and desert hiking trails make this one of the most stylish day trips in the region.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Julian
Further south, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers wildflower blooms in spring, slot canyons, and endless desert vistas. Pair it with a stop in Julian, a historic gold-mining town known for apple pie and small-town charm. It’s a long day but manageable if you start the day early and plan your itinerary carefully.
Wine Country and Foodie Day Trips
If your idea of a perfect day trip involves great food, charming small towns, and rolling vineyard views, you don’t have to go far. Within a few hours of Los Angeles are some of California’s most inviting food and wine regions—each with its own flavor and pace.
Temecula
Located about two hours from downtown LA, Temecula combines beautiful countryside with more than 40 local wineries. You can take a guided wine tasting tour, enjoy olive oil tasting at family-run farms, or wander through Old Town, known for its wooden boardwalks, vintage stores, and live music. Between the vineyards and the restaurants and shops, Temecula is an ideal day trip for couples or groups looking to relax and explore. It’s one of our top 40 Fun Things To Do In Hollywood!
Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley
A favorite among locals, Solvang brings a touch of Denmark to Southern California. You’ll find windmills, cozy bakeries, and streets lined with boutique shops and tasting rooms. Stop at OstrichLand USA, enjoy a pastry from a Danish café, and sample wines from the nearby Santa Ynez Valley, home to some of the state’s best small winery estates. Spend your day in Solvang savoring authentic food, unique gifts, and scenic drives through rolling hills. With an early start, it’s one of the most scenic day trips from LA.
City and Culture Escapes
For travelers who love art, history, and good food, these day trips from LA combine local culture with a slower pace. Each city offers its own personality—beachside charm, mountain calm, or elegant architecture—all easy to reach and explore in a single day.
Santa Barbara and Ojai
About two hours northwest of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is one of California’s most timeless coastal destinations. Start your visit at Stearns Wharf, then wander through downtown Santa for ocean views, boutique shops, and palm-lined streets. Don’t miss the Funk Zone, where tasting rooms, galleries, and creative eateries fill converted warehouses.
A short drive inland brings you to Ojai, a small valley town known for its peaceful energy, Arroyo trails, and arts community. You can browse local shops, stop for lunch at a garden café, or take a walk through the weekend farmer’s market. Together, Santa Barbara and Ojai make one of the most rewarding day trips for travelers who appreciate nature and culture in equal measure.
Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley
Closer to home, Pasadena’s tree-lined streets and historic architecture offer a refined urban escape. Stroll through the historic district, admire the Craftsman homes, or visit the Getty and nearby museums. Take a walk through Griffith Park or the Arroyo Seco for green views, then explore restaurants and shops around Old Pasadena. Just 30 minutes from downtown LA, this is one of the most effortless day trips on the list—ideal for anyone wanting culture without the long drive.
Offbeat Attractions and Hidden Gems Near Los Angeles
Not every great day trip needs to be on a postcard. Around Los Angeles are small towns and scenic corners that trade crowds for character—perfect for travelers who want something different from the usual attractions.
Ventura County and Coastal Towns
Drive south or north along the coast and you’ll find a string of laid-back beach communities that still feel undiscovered. Ventura County offers long stretches of sand, surf spots, and coastal cafés where you can stop for lunch before browsing shops downtown. The city’s historic district has vintage architecture, street art, and a few local breweries worth checking out before heading back to LA.
Pioneertown and Yucca Valley
About 2.5 hours east, Pioneertown began as a 1940s movie set and today feels frozen in time. You can visit the old saloon, browse local art shops, or catch live music at Pappy & Harriet’s, the area’s best-known venue. Nearby Yucca Valley has small galleries and thrift shops, making this one of the most interesting places to visit for travelers drawn to desert art and Western history.
Redlands and Riverside
Set against the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, Redlands and Riverside combine turn-of-the-century architecture with college-town charm. Explore shaded neighborhoods, admire Victorian homes, and stop by one of the local breweries or coffeehouses. Both cities are easy to explore on foot, so you can make a day of it before returning to Los Angeles in time for dinner.
Sample Itineraries and Pro Tips for a Stress-Free Day Trip
Every traveler has a different idea of the perfect day trip, but a little planning can make all the difference. These ideas help you build your own itinerary—whether you prefer beaches, mountains, or small-town charm—while keeping travel time manageable so you can enjoy each stop without rushing.
If You Love the Coast
Start the day with breakfast near Hollywood Boulevard, then head west to explore the shoreline. Spend the morning at the Santa Monica Pier, continue along the Pacific Coast Highway, and stop in Malibu for sea views and fresh seafood. If time allows, detour through Ventura County before returning to LA in time for sunset.
If You’re Craving Nature
Leave early for the San Gabriel Mountains or Big Bear to enjoy the crisp forest air. Pack snacks or plan to stop for lunch in Lake Arrowhead or Idyllwild, where you can stretch your legs and explore local shops before the drive back. Arrive early if you’re hiking—trail parking fills fast on weekends.
If Food and Wine Are Your Focus
Spend the day in Temecula for vineyard views and wine tasting, or head north for a day in Solvang exploring Danish bakeries, boutiques, and nearby winery estates in the Santa Ynez Valley. Both destinations work well for couples or small groups looking for an easy getaway that still feels special.
If You Want a Bit of Everything
Combine city landmarks and coastal scenery with The Perfect Day in LA Tour, which lets you explore Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica before leaving you near the beach to catch golden hour. It’s an effortless way to see the classics, then continue your adventure with confidence on your own.
Plan Your Perfect Day Trip with Hollywood Bus Tours
Los Angeles is one of the few cities where you can see beaches, mountains, and desert—all in a single day. After exploring this list of day trips from Los Angeles, you’ll understand why so many travelers use the city as their launch point for adventure.
If you’re still getting to know LA, start your journey with Hollywood Bus Tours. Our guides take you through the landmarks that define the city—the Hollywood Sign, the Walk of Fame, the TCL Chinese Theatre, Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, and the palm-lined streets of Beverly Hills. Along the way, you’ll hear insider stories, film history, and local tips that bring every stop to life.
Once you’ve experienced the highlights on one of our tours, planning your own perfect day trip becomes easy. You’ll already have a sense of how the city connects—from downtown LA to the Pacific Coast Highway—and the confidence to explore beyond it.
Begin with the classics, then make a day of discovering what lies just outside the skyline.
FAQs: Your LA Day Trip Questions Answered
What are the best day trips from Los Angeles for families?
Families love nearby places to visit like Santa Monica and Venice Beach, where kids can play along the shore or ride the Ferris wheel at the pier. For cooler air and outdoor fun, Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead offer easy nature trails, picnic areas, and lake views—ideal for a quick day trip away from the city. Don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Los Angeles With Kids for the best tips on planning your LA family vacation!
Which day trips are best for outdoor lovers?
For hiking and wide-open spaces, Joshua Tree National Park tops the list. Early risers can also explore the San Gabriel Mountains or Griffith Park for scenic views without the long drive. If you prefer the ocean, head to Malibu for coastal trails and sea caves that make a great perfect day trip.
Can I do a day trip without a car?
Yes. Many day trips from Los Angeles are easy to reach by train or ferry. Take the Catalina Express to Catalina Island, or use the Metro to reach Pasadena’s cultural attractions and the Getty. You can also join one of our tours to cover the city highlights before venturing farther on your own.
How far can I go on a single-day itinerary?
Most destinations in this guide are within two to three hours of downtown LA, making them realistic for a one-day itinerary. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or a national park, plan to start the day early and leave time for traffic on the return trip.
What are the most scenic routes for a day trip?
You can’t beat the Pacific Coast Highway for ocean views and coastal scenery. The drive to Santa Barbara, Ojai, or Malibu offers plenty of places to pull over and enjoy the view. For mountain routes, the Angeles Crest Highway delivers winding roads and dramatic overlooks that make the journey as memorable as the destination.
Wherever your next adventure takes you—whether it’s a quiet beach, a mountain escape, or a new place to visit just outside the city—start with the locals who know LA best. Join Hollywood Bus Tours to see the highlights, then plan your own perfect day trip with confidence.
