la road trip ideas

15 Los Angeles-Area Road Trips and Getaways

Even though you'll never run out of things to do in Los Angeles, the city is perfectly situated for exploring all the riches of

Even though you'll never run out of things to do in Los Angeles, the city is beautifully situated to explore the riches of Southern California and—with L.A.'s driving culture—a road trip is just part of the experience.

Whether you live in Los Angeles and are looking for a quick escape or you are traveling there and want to explore a little more of California, here are some popular road trips that can be done as a day trip or as an overnight getaway from LA. Beach options along the coast are abundant, but within one to three hours of Los Angeles, you can retreat to the mountains or desert, explore wine country, experience California history or immerse yourself in mineral springs.

Most of these road trips and getaways presented in the next pages are worth spending a night or two if you have the time and money, but if you don't mind long days and lots of driving, you can do every one of them as a day trip. Depending on who you talk to, a visit to  Santa Monica ,  Pasadena ,  Long Beach  or  Disneyland  may be considered just another day out in LA, a day trip away from LA, or reason enough to get a room and stay overnight.

The distances we've listed are calculated from Hollywood, just to pick a central point. Given the size of LA, the distance could vary by 40 miles, depending on where you're actually starting. The travel times are off-peak driving times, which can be double or more in rush hour traffic. The trick to making most of the more distant locations as a day trip is to start before rush hour so that you're outside of LA before traffic gets jammed. The estimated times posted are for taking the quickest route, but sometimes it's worth taking the scenic route and enjoying the drive. It is a road trip, after all.

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley 

If you want to take a drive for the joy of driving, ​ Malibu  is a great place to start. The city stretches 27 scenic miles west of Pacific Palisades in LA along the south-facing coast at the edge of the Santa Monica Mountains to the Ventura County line. Most of the city is along both sides of Pacific Coast Highway, with access roads that cut through canyons or over mountains to reach State Route 101. The windy mountain roads lead to a number of surprises in the hills, from a stunt ranch and the Biggest Loser Resort to an elaborate Hindu temple.

The Malibu Hills are also home to a number of ranches where you can go horseback riding and vineyards where you can take a Malibu wine tasting tour. The wealthy folks in Malibu don't really appreciate tourists, so there are only a handful of places to stay in Malibu itself. At the high end, the Malibu Beach Inn puts you right in the sand with waves crashing under your balcony. Malibu does have one of the few places you can camp near the beach at the beautiful Leo Carrillo State Park. There is also camping at Malibu Creek State Park, closer to LA, which is technically in the city of Calabasas on the other side of the mountain.

There are 20 named  beaches in Malibu , each with a different personality. Most of them are good for surfing. Some, like Matador, require a hike down to the water, but you're rewarded with gorgeous scenery. Several are just a scramble down a few feet of sand next to Pacific Coast Highway. Others, like Zuma, are long stretches of nondescript sand with good surf breaks, parking, and amenities. 

Things to see along the way include  The Getty Villa , The Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum, and  The Weisman Museum of Art  at Pepperdine University.

• 30 miles or 50 minutes from LA

Ojai  (pronounced Oh' high) is a small town nestled among oak trees and orange groves in an east-west inland valley in Ventura County, about an hour and a half north of Los Angeles. It's another popular destination for a spa retreat or romantic escape. There are multiple destinations with accommodations and day spas, a cute little Spanish-style downtown to explore, nearby trails to hike , and boating or bird watching at nearby Lake Casitas.

• 77 miles, 1 hour 26 minutes

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara  is doable as a day trip from LA and it's not uncommon for people to drive up just for lunch or dinner, but it's more enjoyable as a weekend road trip. Santa Barbara is an upscale community with a uniform red-tiled Mission architecture as mandated by city ordinance. It's most popular as a romantic destination, with lots of places to stroll along the beach, or as a girlfriends' shopping getaway. Beyond the beach, there aren't a lot of family attractions.

The most popular things to do in Santa Barbara are going to the beach, explore State Street shops, and visit the Santa Barbara Mission, one of the oldest in California.

You'll pass the beach cities of Oxnard, Ventura, and Carpinteria on the way to Santa Barbara, which all have nice beaches and more economical accommodations, but they don't have the same charm as Santa Barbara. What that stretch of coast does have is the greatest concentration of places to go camping at the beach.

If you want to get even further away from it all, you can take a side trip to  Channel Islands National Park , a group of five islands off the coast of Ventura, accessible by boat or small plane from Santa Barbara. There are primitive campgrounds, but no concessions on the islands, so take enough water and food for your day trip or camping needs. Outfitted trips are available.

• 89.2 miles, 1 hour 32 minutes

Solvang Winery Getaway

Solvang is a little bit of Denmark plopped in the middle of the  Santa Ynez Valley  about 45 miles northeast of Santa Barbara. It would be just about a two-hour drive without traffic, but is often closer to two and a half hours or more from LA.

The city was founded in 1911, but it wasn't until 1946 that the community mandated that new construction adhere to the aesthetic of Scandinavian half-timbered architecture. Visiting the town now, it looks a lot like wandering the streets of a European village—with just as many touristy souvenir shops. To learn more about Danish culture and the Danish roots of the town, visit the  Elverhoj Museum . There's also a Hans Christian Anderson Museum in the upstairs of the Book Loft. 

The town is surrounded by the vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley, many of which have tasting rooms in town.

Other curiosities in the area include the miniature ponies at the Quicksilver Ranch and  OstrichLand USA  Ostrich farm or take a private tour of  Mendenhall's Museum of Gasoline Pumps and Petroliana  in nearby Buellton.

There's also a casino at the nearby Chumash Indian Reservation. The hotel and spa at the  Chumash Resort  get good ratings, but if gaming is your primary getaway goal, there are better places to go near Palm Springs, San Diego, or Temecula.

• 122 miles, 2 hours 6 minutes

Mountain Getaway to Lake Arrowhead

Raphye Alexius/Image Source/Getty Images

The two most popular mountain destinations from LA are  Lake Arrowhead  and Big Bear Lake. They are only about 25 miles from each other, so if you're going overnight, you could do both.

Lake Arrowhead is closer to LA than Big Bear Lake. The town is smaller and quieter, and many people find its half-timber alpine architecture prettier than Big Bear's more rustic vibe. However, there is less access to the lake itself, as the entire lakefront is private property. For the visiting public, the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa has a restaurant overlooking the lake, a small beach, and boat tours and fishing charters in the summer. Resort guests also have access to the Lake Arrowhead Golf and Country Club at the north end of the lake. In theory, there's a public trail around Lake Arrowhead, but visitors should be prepared to show their room key when hiking around the lake.  

The Village is a shopping area with a variety of boutiques and outlet stores. They also operate the Arrowhead Queen lake tours on a riverboat and a water-skiing school. During the summer, they host a series of free concerts, and in the fall they have a free Oktoberfest (the more famous one in Big Bear charges admission).

There are other accommodations in town including the Saddleback Inn, which offers private cabins, a couple B&Bs and an abundance of vacation rentals, including some large enough to host a family reunion or staff retreat.

The nearest ski resorts to Lake Arrowhead are about 14 miles east on Highway 18, about halfway between Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake Village:  Snow Valley  for downhill skiing, and Rim Nordic for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

• 85.7 miles, 1 hour 37 minutes

Big Bear Lake Ski Getaway

Big Bear Lake  is more developed than Lake Arrowhead, with a lot more recreational options and—usually—more affordable accommodations. The Village at Big Bear Lake is more California mountain rustic than its neighbor, although it has a little of that too. It's still very walkable.

Big Bear is a year-round destination. It's LA's most popular ski escape in winter, with the highly rated Snow Summit just minutes from town and the nearby Bear Mountain offering the biggest beginner and teaching ski area around. Big Bear also has an abundance of summer fun from water sports to hiking, ATVing, and zip-lining, making it a better family destination than Lake Arrowhead.

Housing options range from tent camping to cabin or condo rental to lodges and resorts, so you can plan a getaway for any size group on any budget.

• 103 miles, 2 hours

Old Hollywood Palm Springs Getaway

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Palm Springs  has been a very popular getaway spot from LA since the days when early movie makers used the desert oasis as a set for shooting westerns in the 1930s. You can still see some old west movie sets on a Red Jeep Tour, however, the mass of Mid-Century Modern construction in the 1950s and 60s is more what defines the city's unique look today. Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra, and Dina Shore had iconic Desert Modern estates built in the area. Taking a  guided tour  or using the app or map for a self-guided tour of the modernist architectural landmarks is a popular activity. Every February, the city host a celebration of its architecture during Modernism Week.

You can also take a jeep tour, hummer tour or sunset tour of the San Andreas Fault out in the desert or the San Gorgonio windmills. Many tours depart from neighboring Palm Desert.

Many people go to Palm Springs to just hang out by the pool at their resort hotel and don't really care about doing much else other than finding an interesting place for dinner, of which there are plenty. Resorts are surrounded by manicured golf courses and tennis courts, so you can stay busy without wandering out into the town or the natural environment at all.

Taking the Aerial Tram up to the top of the San Jacinto Mountains is the most popular attraction in the area. The temperature drops drastically from the desert floor to the mountaintop. In winter it might be 60 degrees at the bottom and snowy at the top.

If you want to explore the desert, Indian Canyon is a good place to start. You can explore on your own or take a combination jeep and hiking tour. You can also tour the Palm Springs Wildland Preserves, take a tour that visits a wolf sanctuary or takes a 20-mile bike tour along the San Andreas Fault zone. 

If you'd rather admire the latest fashions and contemporary art than the local flora and fauna, you can take an insider tour of the area's best shopping and art galleries.

The Palm Springs area is home to a number of casinos.

For a really unique Palm Springs luxury getaway, you can  rent Frank Sinatra's house , Twin Palms, a 4-bedroom Mid-Century residence with a piano-shaped pool that still includes original modern furnishings and memorabilia. The house is also available for weddings, corporate events, and private dinner parties. If you're in town with a group of 20-45 people, you can schedule a private tour.

• 112 miles, 1 hour 51 minutes

Desert Getaway to Joshua Tree

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Joshua Tree National Park , with its iconic desert "trees" and enormous boulder formations is a Mecca for rock climbers and hikers. In spring the wildflower enthusiasts descend. Camping is the most common way to experience the park, but there are a number of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals in the town of Joshua Tree and nearby Twenty-Nine Palms.

• 133 miles, 2 hours 13 minutes

Glen Ivy Hot Springs Getaway

courtesy of Glen Ivy Hot Springs

If you're looking for a day of relaxation, a day away at  Glen Ivy Hot Springs  could do the trick. Built on a natural mineral spring near Corona, CA, the 11-acre spa offers a variety of experiences included in their day rate from mineral baths to mud pools and fitness classes, so you could spend the entire day without ever scheduling a treatment. If you do want a massage, facial or other individualized therapy, it's best to book in advance. Most people do Glen Ivy as a day trip, since there's no hotel on the premises, and it's just over an hour from LA, but there are hotels nearby if you want to make a weekend of it. It can get a bit rowdy with bachelorette parties and bigger crowds on spring and summer weekends, so It's most relaxing on a weekday or in midwinter when it's less crowded. It's a desert area, so it's pretty hot in summer, but can still fill up on weekends.

• 63.3 miles, 1 hour 8 minutes

Temecula Old Town Getaway

Temecula is one of those places you definitely have to go to on purpose because it's not on the way to anywhere else you're likely to be going (although you can take a day tour from Palm Springs). For oenophiles, the big draw is the  Temecula Valley wine country , with over 30 vineyards, most of which offer wine tastings. The scenery is beautiful, and wonderfully photogenic, especially in the fall.

The Temecula Olive Oil Company offers Olive View Ranch tours a couple Saturdays a month by reservation, or you can stop by their tasting room in Old Town any day to sample fresh California extra-virgin olive oils and flavored vinegar. In Old Town, where new architecture matches the original old west buildings, you'll also find cute boutiques, specialty shops and restaurants, a lively community theater and a jazz club.

The  Pechanga Resort and Casino  is another big draw in the area. The AAA Four Diamond resort, owned by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians, is the largest casino in the Western US, offering slots, blackjack, poker, craps, and roulette 24/7. If you're not gambling, you can still spend a day at the spa, play a round of golf at the Journey at Pechanga golf course, enjoy big-name entertainment in multiple venues and dine at 10 different eating establishments. There is also an  RV Resort  adjacent to the casino.

Other popular activities in Temecula are hot air ballooning and horseback riding or playing the six championship golf courses. For beer-lovers, there are also four  breweries  in the area.

Temecula hosts an annual Balloon and Wine Festival at the end of May or beginning of June, as well as numerous other music, arts, food and wine festivals throughout the year.

• 90.6 miles, 1 hour 32 minutes

Orange County Beach Getaway

Like the northern LA County Beaches in Malibu, the  southern beaches in Orange County  are more geographically scenic than the long straight stretch through Huntington Beach and it feels more like a getaway the farther south you go. Unlike Malibu, most of the local beach cities also have tons of shopping, nightlife, boat tours, beach butlers and lots of hotels and resorts.

If you were starting at LAX, you could drive along the small coastal roads through the South Bay Beach Cities, around the Palos Verdes Peninsula, through  San Pedro , across the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, through  Long Beach , then back to Pacific Coast Highway to the Orange County beach cities of  Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point and San Clemente. It takes a couple hours, but it's scenic, and you see parts of LA most locals never do. However, if you're starting in Hollywood or Downtown LA, it makes a lot more sense to hop on the freeway, and you can be there in just over an hour. By freeway, it takes about the same time to get to any one of the Orange County beaches down to Dana Point, since you're dropping in on them from above. Driving along the coast, it can take a half hour to an hour to get from Huntington Beach to Dana Point, depending on traffic.

Huntington Beach is the northernmost beach. Surf City, USA has more working class roots than beaches farther south, but it has added a number of upscale gastropubs and fine dining establishments to offset the surfer bars. If you just want to experience that laid-back surfer lifestyle, you'll find it in Huntington Beach, and it may be more affordable than the more southern beaches.

Next is Newport Beach, a 10-mile stretch which is both very affluent and densely populated. It has some of the county's best high-end shopping at Fashion Island, as well as unique boutiques along Pacific Coast Highway. They also have some of the best waves for pro surfers near the pier. Within the embrace of the Newport, Peninsula is a couple of islands accessible by bridge or ferry that are primarily residential, but Balboa Island has a strip of cute shops and restaurants. There are year-round gondola rides around the channels and during the holiday season, special boat tours of the Christmas lights, as well as multiple nights of Christmas boat parades. With the limited road access to the islands and the peninsula, driving and parking can be a real challenge during the summer. At the southern end of the city, Crystal Cove State Park stretches into Laguna Beach, It is a popular spot for tide pooling on the beach side, and hiking into the hills on the inland side of Pacific Coast Highway.

For the entire summer, it's taken over by  Laguna Beach art festivals —three of them at once—and the  Pageant of the Masters  living pictures production. The rest of the year it still has the most scenic beaches, an exceptional number, and range of art galleries, great restaurants, and nice hotels. For those who like to meet the artists, Laguna Canyon road is lined with artist studios and workshops, some of which are open to the public.

South of Laguna is Dana Point, a small town with a harbor deep enough to host  three tall ships , two of them at the Ocean Institute. The big draws in Dana Point are the 5-star accommodations at the  Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel  on Salt Creek Beach and the Monarch Beach Resort, adjacent to the Monarch Beach Golf Links.

Both Newport Beach and Dana Point are famous for their  whale watching  excursions, which Dana Point celebrates with a Festival of Whales the first two weekends in March.

South of Dana Point, Capistrano Beach sits below the town of San Juan Capistrano,  separated from a high bluff by the Coast Highway. The beach itself is a narrow strip of sand between the parking lot and the water.  Mission San Juan Capistrano  is a pilgrimage destination for fans of California and Catholic history, as well as the famous swallows that return every spring. The Mission has a special prayer room within the Serra Chapel dedicated to Saint Peregrine, the patron saint of cancer sufferers.

San Clemente, the southernmost Orange County beach, has the distinction of being the only one where the Metrolink or Amtrak trains let you off steps from the beach. You can take a train from  Union Station  in  Downtown LA  and be on the beach in San Clemente in an hour and a half. San Clemente State Beach also has a  campground , so despite the high property values of those Spanish-style homes, you can actually have a very economical getaway to San Clemente. The town has an even more small-town laid-back vibe than Huntington Beach.

Legoland Road Trip Getaway

Carlsbad is a beach town 95 miles south of Los Angeles, now most famous for being the home of LEGOLAND, CA. It was named for the mineral water discovered in 1882, which had a similar mineral composition to the healing waters of what was then Carlsbad, now Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic. The mineral water spa was a popular attraction during the depression when it was abandoned. The well was re-drilled and the ​ Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa  finally re-opened in 1996. It is a California Historic Site as well as a full-service day spa, but it's not why most people head to Carlsbad.

Families with young children flock to Carlsbad to visit Legoland, a LEGO-themed park with rides and attractions, including special winter-only rides. The Legoland Resort includes two water parks and the Sea Life Aquarium. 

Adults go to Carlsbad to shop the  Carlsbad Premium Outlets , as a dedicated trip, or on the way to San Diego, and seasonally to visit 50 acres of cultivated flower gardens at the  Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch . It's also a nice beach getaway with nice hotels, good restaurants and a beautiful beach with free parking. Downtown Carlsbad is cute to walk around. If you're staying in town, an excursion to the   Craftsmanship Museum  of miniature model engineering, the  Museum of Music Making , or the  GIA gem museum  could add a little diversity to your trip.

• 95.6 miles, 1 hour 37 minutes

La Jolla Surfing Getaway

TripSavvy / Sharyn Umaña-Angers

La Jolla , as its name implies, is the jewel of the San Diego coastline. The affluent northern neighborhood in San Diego has seven miles of waterfront, including the city's three most scenic beaches: La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Shores, and Windansea. The northernmost beach, La Jolla Shores, is a long stretch that merges with Torrey Pines State Beach. It is the most coveted spot for walking, running or lying in the sun, but can be very crowded. La Jolla Cove is surrounded by rocky cliffs and has limited sandy area, but is great for exploring the tide pools at low tide and is the best beach for snorkeling or scuba diving. Windansea is a popular spot for more advanced surfers with hard-breaking waves close to shore.

La Jolla has an abundance of unique shopping, top restaurants, and scenic walks as well as an award-winning theater, one of the top arts festivals in the state and free summer concerts.

• 117 miles, 2 hours

San Diego Sightseeing Getaway

San Diego is a couple hours south of Los Angeles. There are certainly enough attractions in San Diego to fill a week-long vacation, but it's possible to pop down from LA just for the day. You can visit Old Town, have lunch, spend a few hours on a hop on, hop off trolley tour, take a boat tour or visit Balboa Park or  Coronado Island  (both stops on the trolley tour), or take a segway tour and have dinner in the Gas Lamp District and make it back to LA in the same day. You could also spend the whole day doing one thing, like visiting the famous San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park or  SeaWorld .

If you're fond of gaming, the San Diego area also has a number of top-rated Indian Casinos.

• 126 miles, 2+ hours

Getaway to Catalina Island

This favorite getaway for Angelenos is not exactly a road trip, although you have to start out by road. You'll need a ferry to get to  Catalina Island —or a helicopter. Its major city, Avalon, once known as ​a sleepy place with not much to do, now offers all kinds of pampering and adventure experiences, from beach-side massages to  zip-lining  down a mountain.

If you want to get further away from it all, Twin Harbors, at the other end of the island, lacks most of the mod cons of Avalon but is a popular camping and hiking destination.

• 29 miles, 36 min to San Pedro; 30 miles, 36 min to Long Beach, plus 22 miles by ferry

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The best road trips from L.A.

From weekend jaunts to extended vacations, here’s a list of the best road trips from L.A.

One of our favorite things about L.A. is that you can leave its urban sprawl at a moment’s notice and suddenly find yourself surrounded by nature just a few miles out of town. Whether you’re interested in a whole  weekend getaway  (hello, Vegas or Big Sur) or need a nearby day trip to get some fresh air (maybe Joshua Tree?), this list has a destination for every kind of traveler.

We’ve included some suggestions of things to see and do at each locale, but for some of the bigger destinations—like nearby desert and Bay Area cities—we’ve focused more on the journey, with links out to full guides to each spot for once you’ve wrapped up the road part of your trip. So hop in the car, crank up the tunes and take your pick of scenery: Forest, beach , desert and mountain landscapes all make up these gorgeous road trips from L.A. Happy travels!  

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from Los Angeles

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Top road trips from L.A.

1.  Palm Springs

Miles from L.A.: ~105 Suggested round-trip time: 2 days min. A quick and easy trip from L.A., Palm Springs is definitely doable over a weekend. Head east past miles of wind farms, where turbines cast formidable shadows and make an otherwise monotone landscape come alive. Look out for prehistoric creatures on the side of the road; the 50-foot Cabazon Dinosaurs (a Brontosaurus and a T. Rex, to be exact) are a popular roadside attraction. You can check out the gift shop (in the bront’s belly), but to climb to the top of the T. Rex and sit in his mouth (a la Pee-wee during his big adventure), you’ll have to fork over $15 and weave your way through a fascinating, if factually inaccurate dino park. When you arrive in Palm Springs, pick up a map of modernist buildings at the Albert Frey-designed Palm Springs Visitors Center for a self-guided architecture tour of the town.

Discover the best  things to do in Palm Springs .

2.  Joshua Tree

Miles from L.A.: ~130 Suggested round-trip time: 2–3 days min. Joshua Tree is one of the most magical places in California (and the country, we think). The national park’s varied and alien landscapes—due mostly to gnarled, ancient Joshua Trees and giant boulders strewn willy nilly—make for impressive scenery during leisurely drives. The stargazing is choice here, and wild coyotes may howl you to sleep if you plan an overnight camping trip. Stop at Pappy & Harriet’s for lunch on the way, and stick around for live music and a ghost-town stroll. Pick up a new houseplant at the Cactus Mart , or visit the Integratron (reservations required)  for a new-age sound bath and a shady hammock nap. The town of Joshua Tree itself also offers some fun stops, such as the World Famous Crochet Museum , filled with the kind of quirky public art that only exists in tiny, warm-weather communities . 

Discover the best   things to do in Joshua Tree .

3.  Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Miles from L.A.: ~235 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. If you’re a tree lover, you must go see the giant redwoods of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks . Driving through and under such gentle giants is an experience that can only be had on the way to and within these parks. Sequoia is slightly more drive-and-look friendly, with cool attractions like the General Sherman Tree, the largest living thing in the world; Tunnel Log, a fallen, hollowed out Sequoia that you can drive your car through; and Moro Rock, a dome-shaped peak accessible via a couple hundred steps. Meanwhile, the winding roads and backcountry trails in Kings Canyon are on every hiker’s bucket list (the drive to the end of Highway 180 is worth it even if you don’t plan on pushing yourself on foot). Just make sure to check conditions before you go: Some roads close after the summer season, and there’s always a risk of wildfires in the area.

4.  Las Vegas

Miles from L.A.: ~270 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. Our advice? Never fly to Vegas; the drive is too much fun to miss (well, aside from the traffic on the way home ). First, check out Calico Ghost Town . It’s not the most authentic of ghost towns , but it’s a worthwhile detour for a bit of Wild West history. For something a little stranger, look out for exit 23 on the 15, which will lead you to the ruins of the former Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Spa. Created by criminal, quack radio evangelist Curtis Howe Springer back in 1944, the resort duped visitors into thinking they were soaking in healing natural hot springs, when in reality all the pools were boiler-heated. (Eventually the FBI shut this little operation down.) Get even weirder seven miles down the road in Baker with an alien sighting at Alien Jerky , a kitschy, alien-themed sundries shop selling flavored jerky, olives, nuts and candy. If you’re hungry for something more substatial, don’t miss the Mad Greek , a surprisingly delicious Greek fast food joint. In fact you can’t miss it, due to the lifesize plaster statues and Parthenon patio. Get a gyro plate to fuel the rest of your journey to Sin City. If you’re itching for the open road once your’re in Vegas, take a loop through Red Rock Canyon , including a 13-mile scenic loop that follows the canyon walls.

Discover the best  things to do in Las Vegas .

5.  Mammoth Lakes

Miles from L.A.: ~310 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min.

Take the scenic Route 395 and you’ll have a view of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountain range for most of this gorgeous drive. When you hit Big Pine, stop for a bite at Copper Top BBQ , a bright red smoke shack that serves piping-hot ribs and tri-tips. You may end up befriending some hungry alpine clibers headed to or from Mount Whitney (the highest point in the contiguous U.S. at 14,505 feet!). Take a small detour east to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest , home to the oldest trees in the world; some of these beauties have been around for more than 4,000 years. Farther north, stop in Bishop for some fresh-baked loaves or pastries at Erick Schat’s Bakery . Drive up the road to Mahogany Smoked Meats and choose some road snacks from a huge selection of gourmet beef, turkey, elk, buffalo, boar and fish jerkies. Though there’s no formal address, if you’re determined (or willing to ask a local), you can find a group of easily-accessible hot springs right off the 395, just south of Mammoth Yosemite Airport.

6.  San Francisco

Miles from L.A.: ~390 Suggested round trip time: 3–4 days min. There’s more than one way to get up to the Bay; you can choose the scenic route up the Pacific Coast Highway, or the down-and-dirty quick shot up the 5. (Yes, we mean dirty; miles of cattle farms give off a terrible stench, and miles of citrus farms—while more pleasing to the nose—will leave your car covered in bug guts.) For a leisurely road trip, we suggest Highway 1. Stop at the Madonna Inn for a giant slice of cake or a peek into one of the themed guest rooms. If you have more time, Hearst Castle  is a must-see; a sprawling estate with 56 bedrooms, multiple pools, 127 acres of gardens and even grazing zebras. As you continue north, look out for the signs (and smells) of Gilroy, the garlic capital of the world. Take a detour just outside of San Jose for more quirky home architecture at the Winchester Mystery House , supposedly haunted by ghosts of those killed by Winchester rifles, which led Sarah Winchester to build new additions onto the house continuously until her death to confuse the wandering spirits.

Discover the best things to do in San Francisco .

7.  Napa and Sonoma

Miles from L.A.: ~415 Suggested round trip time: 5 days min. There’s so much to explore in Wine Country. Enjoy a picturesque drive up the coast, then swing inland for miles and miles of bucolic, verdant, rolling hills dotted with wineries and farms. Once you get close, you’ll have to pick a direction: west for Sonoma , east for Napa . You can’t go wrong, but it isn’t easy to drive back and forth between the two, so if you don’t have time for both, choose between spread out, rustic Sonoma or more condensed and touristy Napa. Spring for a hot air balloon ride if you can, or spot them from the road in the early mornings. The main event here, of course, is wineries—just be sure to drive safely, or turn the wheel over to Lyft for the day.

Discover the best things to do in Napa .

8.  Lake Tahoe

Miles from L.A.: ~465 Suggested round trip time: 4–5 days min. The scenic Route 395 is one of the loveliest roads in California. Wind your way along the Eastern Sierras, stopping in the small towns of Lone Pine, Big Pine and Bishop for quaint strolls and delicious detours (we’ll repeat here our recommendations for  Copper Top BBQ in Big Pine and the famous Schat’s Bakery in Bishop). The area is perfect for exploration by car; take any westward road to head up into the mountains, where you’ll find pine forests, crystal clear snowmelt lakes and tiny towns. Ask the locals where to find one of many natural hot springs to soak tight muscles from a long day’s drive, or pull off at the Happys, Sads or Owens River Gorge, all world-class bouldering and climbing sites, for some rock scrambling. For otherworldly waterscapes, check out Mono Lake’s “tufas,” spindly towers of limestone buildup reflecting across the saline waters. If you have time, a stop in Yosemite National Park  is a must, as is a hike or stroll (or ski day) in Mammoth. Another worthwhile (if far) detour is Bodie, one of the most legitimate and well-preserved ghost towns in America.

Discover the best  things to do in Tahoe

9.  Flagstaff and Sedona

Miles from L.A.: ~470 Suggested round trip time: 5 days min. The change of scenery you’ll see on this drive is worth the trip alone: from vast stretches of desert into shrub-covered hills, followed by dense forest and—depending on the time of year—even snow. There are plenty of detours along the way: the Hoover Dam (an inspired Art Deco wonder), the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Las Vegas—it’s definitely a choose-your-own-adventure type of trip, depending on how much time you have. But whether your destination is Flagstaff or Sedona , take the 30-minute drive between the two. Each has distinct offerings; from a hip, small-town feel in Flagstaff with craft beer, live music and friendly folks to stunning views and an overwhelming number of health and wellness spas in sleepy Sedona (treat yo’ self) . 

Discover the best things to do in Flagstaff and the best  things to do in Sedona .

10.  Big Sur

Miles from L.A.: ~350 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. Arguably one of the most iconic stretches of coastline in the world, the Big Sur area is a road tripper’s paradise. It’s where redwood-covered mountainsides plunge into the surging ocean, with a narrow road carved into the cliffside, offering incredible views and a bit of vertigo. Before you get too far north, stop off at Morro Bay or Pismo Beach (both right near San Luis Obispo) for a dip or a sunbathe and later, look for the sign alerting you of the elephant seals, who crowd along the shoreline. Then steel yourself for a few hours of curves—every one is worth it for the next view around the corner. One of the best ways to see Big Sur is simply by driving along Highway 1, parking your car wherever it looks cool (read: basically everywhere), and following a probably unmarked trail—though be careful of poison oak—down in the direction of the ocean. For more mappable destinations, try the touristy-but-still-totally-worth-it McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach for even more stunning vistas (we also used to suggest you check out the Esalen Institute , as their hot spring baths used to be open to the public from 1–3am with a reservation, but that’s been temporarily, if not permanently, suspended). Dying to get off the beaten path? Head up Nacimiento Road to the remote valley setting of Mission San Antonio de Padua —one spot in Big Sur that you just might have to yourself.

Just a heads up: Increasingly common landslides have temporarily shut down sections of Highway 1 in recent years, so make sure to check up on the latest road closures before you depart. You may only be able to reach certain sections of Big Sur from the Bay Area-end of the highway in the event of a closure.

11.  Salton Sea

Miles from L.A.: ~165 Suggested round trip time: 2 days

Driving south down a desolate stretch of the 111, you’d never guess that the lake was a popular vacation spot in the 1950s, with resorts dotting its eastern shore. But increasing salinity and pollution due to agricutlural runoff have turned what was once a luxury retreat into a destination appealing only to those with an affinity for the forgotten and decaying. Explore abandoned structures along the shoreline as sun-bleached fish bones crunch underfoot. When you get hungry, the Ski Inn  is your best option—and one of the only remaining establishments in the area. Make sure to visit late local Leonard Knight’s gigantic folk art sculpture, Salvation Mountain , a rainbow-hued hill emblazoned with the words “God is Love.”

12.  Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks

Miles from L.A.: ~500 Suggested round trip time: 6–7 days min. The route to southwest Utah will take you directly through Vegas, so you can hit up all the roadside attractions listed above before venturing into more scenic landscape on the second half of your journey. There’s no shortage of incredible parks and monuments to check out in this area, so if you’re looking to see some natural wonders, this is the trip for you. A few must-visits are Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park (the backdrop to most Westerns since the 1930s), Glen Canyon National Recreation Area for some swimming amidst the desert landscape (if the season is right) and Vermilion Cliffs National Monument , home of incredible “wave” rock formations and painted desert vistas. You’ll be greeted in Zion by soaring monoliths and sunset-colored cliffs; beyond in Bryce Canyon , the pinks turn to reds in a surreal, hoodoo-covered landscape (hoodoo means rock spire, and is way more fun to say).  

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10 Best Road Trips From Los Angeles

It's about the journey and the destination.

Los Angeles may be a destination in its own right, but one of the best parts about living in this Southern California city (or even visiting) is just how easy it is to drive a few hours and be in a completely different environment.

Thanks to its proximity to beaches, mountains, a few famed national parks, and even the Mexico border, Los Angeles is a prime hub for road tripping adventures. With that in mind, read on for a few of our favorite road trips from Los Angeles.

Joshua Tree, California

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

If you're looking for a short drive that will somehow transport you to another planet, make the trek to Joshua Tree, California . The area, located about 130 miles from Los Angeles, is home to a famed national park that comes stacked with its namesake tree. But don't stop there. Visit at places like the Integratron , a rejuvenation center designed by ufologist George Van Tassel, and the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum , an outdoor venue filled with trash-to-treasure pieces by artist Noah Purifoy. Dine in a few of the area's best restaurants, too, including Frontier Café , La Copine , and, of course,the famed Pappy and Harriet's .

How to Get There: From downtown Los Angeles, hop on I-10 East to CA-62 East.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Driving to Las Vegas is a rite of passage for many living in Los Angeles. Packing a car and heading to the desert city always comes with a lot of excitement, knowing you're in for a weekend of debauchery on the other side. But don't let the journey pass you by. While en route to Sin City, stop in at places like Barstow, home to the Route 66 Museum and Desert Discovery Center, which holds the oldest meteorite in the U.S. For a longer pit stop, make your way to the Mojave National Preserve and walk through the lava tubes to feel Mother Nature's power.

How to Get There: Take 1-10 East until you see the twinkling Vegas lights come into view.

Big Sur, California

No road trip from Los Angeles is more iconic than the one you can take down Highway 1 . The route, which hugs the California coast from Orange County to Mendocino, is simply stunning from beginning to end. And here's the best part: No matter where you stop, you'll find a great end point. But for a truly famed getaway, drive north from Los Angeles to Big Sur. The coastal drive is famous for its clifftop views. Maximize your visit with hiking in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park , snapping Instagram-worthy photos at Bixby Creek Bridge , and taking a stroll down Sand Dollar Beach .

How to Get There: Hop on US-101 North to CA-1 North (a.k.a. Highway 1) and follow the ocean to Big Sur. It should take about six hours to get from Downtown Los Angeles to Big Sur.

Rosarito, Mexico

Los Angeles is just a few hours from the U.S.-Mexico border, making an international road trip easy. For an idyllic escape, head south to Rosarito, a sleepy surfer's paradise located just down the road from its louder party-centric neighbor, Tijuana. In Rosarito, it's best to dedicate an entire vacation to lounging on the beach, paddling in the waves, and drinking cocktails with tiny umbrellas. However, if you need more, you can always hike Cerro El Coronel, shop in Plaza Pabellón, and visit the charming fishing village of Popotla just down the street.

How to Get There: Take US-101 South to I-5 South all the way over the border.

Napa Valley, California

California's wine country is a must when it comes to road trips from L.A. The drive to Napa may be long, but it's a pretty direct shot, and once you're there, you'll be rewarded with gorgeous vineyard views and plenty of vino to sip and savor. Beyond hiring a driver to take you on a winery tour for the day, you can also see Napa from a different perspective by hopping in a hot air balloon . Visitors can also tour the area via bike or take in a little more culture by paying a visit to one of the numerous art galleries and museums .

How to Get There: Take I-5 North to CA-12 West and CA-29 North until you hit your destination.

Sedona, Arizona

If you're on the hunt for a bit of spiritual renewal, head to Sedona . The stunning Arizona town is well-known for its mystical powers, including several vortexes that are said to be a connection between this universe and others. Take in all the red rock beauty with a hike on Devil's Bridge Trail , visit the Cathedral Rock vortex , and cap off the trip with shopping for a few local souvenirs in the area's Uptown neighborhood.

How to Get There: Take I-10 East to I-17 North. It's a lengthy trip, so plan for a pit stop in Joshua Tree or Palm Springs along the way.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is undoubtedly a popular road trip destination, topping many travelers' must-see lists — and for good reason. The national park's awe-inspiring views are the stuff of legend and its hiking trails are second to none. During your Grand Canyon visit, take some time to either trek part of its trail system, or if you're feeling up to it, try a rim-to-rim hike that will take you to the bottom and back again. (Just make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks along the way and avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day.) Stop in at the Grand Canyon Village for supplies, or treat yourself to a different view with a helicopter tour .

How to Get There: Follow I-15 North and I-40 East to AZ-64 North/West. Hit Route 66 in Williams, then take exit 165 from I-40 East to AZ-64 North.

Zion National Park, Utah

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Another stellar road trip destination for those looking to explore America's national parks is Zion. Much like the Grand Canyon, this park also offers fantastic views, but it has the advantage when it comes to drives as it's also home to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive . This route allows travelers to traverse the park in their vehicle, making it accessible to more visitors. Enjoy the drive, which hugs the Virgin River, then make your way to the nearby Grafton ghost town to see what life was like for settlers making their way West.

How to Get There: It's essentially a straight shot on I-15 North. This is another lengthy drive, but the route cuts through Las Vegas, which serves as an ideal stopover.

Mammoth, California

No matter the time of year, taking a road trip to Mammoth is a good idea. In the spring, the wildflowers bloom and the bucolic scenery comes to life. During the summer, you can take a dip in Mammoth Lakes , and come fall, enjoy a hike and watching the leaves change to vibrant hues of burnt orange, red, and yellow. However, the winter months are when this place really shines, thanks to its renowned ski resort . Don't overlook the healing hot springs in the winter either, which will soothe your muscles after a hike, dip, or ski day.

How to Get There: Take US-101 North to I-5 North, and follow that to CA-14 North. Then, hop on US-395 North until you reach Mammoth.

Lake Tahoe, California

Last, but certainly not least, is a road trip to Lake Tahoe, which straddles California and Nevada. The area offers plenty of outdoor fun, including lounging by the lake, hiking endless trails, and skiing down groomed runs at a number of nearby resorts or taking a backcountry excursion. And although Lake Tahoe is certainly beautiful in its own right, we recommend taking your time on this route as there are plenty of spots to stop along the way, like the Inyo National Forest in Bishop, Mammoth, and even a quick detour in Yosemite National Park . Because life — and travel — should also be about the journey, not just the destination.

How to Get There: Take ​​CA-14 North and US-395 North to US-50 West in South Lake Tahoe.

Check out videos on hundreds of California adventures

10 Weekend Road Trips Less Than 4 Hours From Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a destination itself, but if you live there or have visited the area many times, then you should get out and explore some of the awesome adventures you can have within four hours drive from the city center. Whether it’s hiking, food, wine, or just strange attractions, here are my ten recommendations for what to do for a weekend within four hours of Los Angeles. Each suggestion below has posts I have written to help you make the most of the weekend. Be sure to let me know what you would recommend in the comments.

Solvang is a Danish town located about 30 minutes north of Santa Barbara. If you haven’t been, then you owe it to yourself to explore this quirky spot. The town is designed to look like a Danish village, complete with windmills and a giant wooden shoe. Some of the best things to do there include: feeding an ostrich, seeing mini horses, eating aebleskivers (pastry), and going to the Hans Christian Andersen Museum.

• Read all about these spots in this guide .

Channel Islands

The Channel Islands are one of the least visited national parks in the entire system, mainly because you must take a boat out to see them. If you just want to take a day trip, then head over to Anacapa and explore for a few hours. If you are looking for more of an adventure, then go to Santa Cruz for miles of hiking and a rural camping area.

• Read about the islands here .

The Salton Sea will be one of those places that probably won’t appeal to everyone, but if you can get past the smell, it is full of amazing adventures. My personal favorites are visiting Salvation Mountain, Salton Sea State Park, and of course, a stop for a banana milkshake at the International Banana Museum.

• Read about exploring the area here .

Drive Historic Route 66

While most people have been to the endpoint of Route 66, the Santa Monica Pier, they probably have not driven the other two hundred plus miles of road that is part of Route 66 in California. Some sections are better than others, and the best part is the drive from Victorville to Barstow, where you can stop at Elmer’s Bottletree Ranch, a personal favorite of mine.

• Read more about the drive here .

Mojave National Preserve

This is another remote recommendation, but one that has a lot of unique places to explore. The preserve is one of the largest in the United States, and it has an extensive collection of dunes, the densest Joshua Tree forest in California, and lava tubes for you to explore. Just make sure to bring food and gas, as you won’t find any in the park.

• Check out my guide on exploring the area here .

Pioneertown / Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is the closest national park to LA (other than the Channel Islands), and most people have probably made the trek out to see this park once. I have been a half dozen times though, and still find more things to see each time I go. Read the guide below and find more places to see in the park. Of course, while you are out there, you should take the time to explore the surrounding area as well. Some of my favorite spots are Pioneertown (be sure to eat at Pappy and Harriet’s), and the cactus mart in Joshua Tree city.

• Here is a guide on Joshua Tree and here is one on Pioneertown .

Wrightwood is a small mountain town out near the 15 freeway, and while the town itself doesn’t have much to do, the area around it is great. There is a fantastic old gold mine you can hike to in the hills above it, the Mormon rocks are about 20 minutes east, and the drive up Highway 2 to Wrightwood from LA is part of the adventure itself (just don’t go when it is closed in the winter). Also, the Pacific Crest Trail has miles of hiking that go through the area.

Here are a few spots to explore there:

• Big Horn Mine

La Jolla is my favorite city in the San Diego area as it has a lot of charm and beautiful places to adventure. I recommend you go on one of the kayak tours they have which will take you to the sea caves and even let you enter them if the weather is good. Also, during the fall, you can snorkel with the leopard sharks right in the cove. This is a great experience to have with these docile animals, and it is something you would not expect to be able to do in Southern California.

Here are a few more spots to explore in La Jolla:

• Sunny Jim Cave
• Snorkeling with sharks

San Diego / Coronado / Tijuana

Of course, no list of day trip adventures can be trusted without including San Diego, which is one of California’s best cities. If you are heading down there, I would recommend going for a hike in the Torrey Pines State Reserve, renting a bike to go around the Coronado bike path, or taking a day trip across the border into Tijuana. You can also just hang out in downtown San Diego or at one of the many beaches too, if that is your thing.

• Here is my guide to the city of San Diego .

Palm Springs

I am not a fan of lounging by the pool in the hot summer sun, but if you are, then of course, Palm Springs is your place. If you are looking for adventures, then Palm Springs is still an excellent recommendation though. You can head up the tram to some great hiking near San Jacinto or even go on a tour of Elvis’s historic honeymoon home. Add to that all the great restaurants they have, and you hold the recipe for a fun weekend.

• Read my guide on Palm Springs here .

So there you have it, my recommendations for ten great day trips from Los Angeles , be sure to let me know what I left off in the comments.

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The Best 3-Day Road Trips From Los Angeles

Published April 28, 2021

// By Margherita

Who else misses road tripping? We certainly do! For all those lucky people in the US right now, here is a selection of the best 3-days road trips from Los Angeles!

One of the best things about Los Angeles is that it is so easy to take road trips from the city. So, you could spend as little as two days exploring the city , then hit the road for the adventure of a lifetime!

California is packed with National Parks, beaches, deserts, cities, and quaint towns all within a few hours drive.

You could soak up the California sun at the beach, sip wine in a vineyard, get your adrenaline going on a mountain adventure, or escape to a little town for some peace. The options are endless!

While there are many ways to road trip around California , a really cool option is to rent an RV or campervan in Los Angeles . There are plenty of campgrounds throughout California to park an RV at or car camp.

If camping isn’t your thing, enjoy a stay at a luxury resort or charming hotel. With so many options, the next question is, where should you visit first?

1) Joshua Tree National Park

Drive about 2.5 hours east of Los Angeles and you will arrive in the unique desert landscape of Joshua Tree , where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. Famous for Joshua trees, giant boulders, rugged mountains, and numerous species of cacti, this road trip is a great long weekend getaway.

There are plenty of hikes in Joshua Tree  for any skill level. For an incredible vantage point of the area, make your way up the switchbacks to Ryan Mountain . Visit Skull Rocks or Baker Dam for a more moderate stroll. To sightsee by car, drive up to Keys View for an impressive overlook of the desert landscape.

End your day setting up camp next to the famous Joshua Tree giant boulders and enjoy the views of the Milky Way throughout the night.

Reserve a campground or arrive early for a walk-up campsite. Plan your visit in the spring or fall for the most comfortable temperatures and if you love wildflowers, definitely visit Joshua Tree in the springtime!

2) Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is one of the best road trip destinations from Los Angeles. Given that it’s the hottest and driest place in the country, the summer heat is brutal meaning winter is the best time to visit .

Death Valley is the perfect spot for everyone, with the option to hike, off-road, or take a scenic drive. Adventure through canyons, giant sand dunes, badlands, and mountains. Stay on the lookout for wildlife including bighorn sheep, coyotes, jackrabbits, and desert tortoises.

Death Valley is a large park but there are some not-to-be-missed places. Don’t miss Badwater Basin , the lowest point in North America, 282 feet below sea level. Make your way up to Dante’s View to overlook sweeping views of the valley below. Trek through the Golden Canyon for a close-up experience with the unique sand and rock. End a day at Zabriskie Point for sunset.

The area is very remote so stock up on food and water  before you arrive. Check for current information about weather especially if you are considering any off-road travel.

3) Yosemite National Park

Majestic waterfalls, massive grain cliffs, and abundant wildlife are just a few reasons to take a weekend road trip to Yosemite . The glacier-formed area features impressive geological features including high mountain peaks, rounded domes, a deep U-shaped valley, alpine lakes, and more! 

Yosemite is worth visiting year-round but is most crowded during summer and reservations are currently required to visit then. To avoid the crowds check out Yosemite in the fall for gorgeous foliage , in the winter for the peaceful sites of a snow-covered valley, or in the spring to see the roaring waterfalls and rivers.

While visiting, don’t miss the most iconic viewpoint , Tunnel View , to see Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Falls all at once!

Or wind your way up to Glacier Point which sits over 3,000 feet above the valley floor where you can see about one-third of Yosemite. Bring your binoculars to El Cap meadow to look for climbers on the giant granite monolith.

Also, explore less-visited parts of Yosemite . Drive up to the high country along Tioga Pass . This is the least visited part of Yosemite, but the dramatic features should not be missed. However, don’t forget Tioga Pass is inaccessible in winter, and only opens in lake May/June. 

4) Sequoia National Park

Head to the Land of the Giants to walk amongst the largest trees in the world. Sequoia National Park is most famously known for its massive groves of old-growth Sequoias, but it’s also home to a diverse varying environment – including deep canyons, rolling foothills, marble caves, and majestic mountains.

One of them is the 14,500 foot Mount Whitney – the highest point in the Lower 48 states.

Sequoia is enjoyable year-round with the option to hike, drive, climb, horseback ride, snowshoe, or ski, there are activities for every type of adventurer . Make sure you visit General Sherman , the largest Sequoia in the world, and hike out to Moro Rock for spectacular views of the granite landscape. If you want to drive more, there are plenty of viewpoints to enjoy from your car.

Any season you visit is a magical experience but Sequoia is most crowded during the summer. Fall and Spring bring more moderate temperatures. While winter snows close some roads, the tranquil landscape is still worth the visit. 

5) Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is home to picturesque beaches with dramatic mountains in the distance. It’s only a two-hour drive north of Los Angeles and is well known for its wine, street fairs, golf courses, upscale restaurants and boutiques, and historical Spanish Mission churches.

Make a day trip to the Santa Ynez Valley wineries and tasting rooms for some of the best wines in the region .

Then stop by the nearby town Solvang to visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, author of many famous children’s books including The Ugly Duckling , The Little Mermaid , and The Emperor’s New Clothes .

If you enjoy the outdoors, r ent kayaks to explore the coastal waters or rent bicycles and pedal along the ocean. The city offers plenty of options whatever your interests may be.

6) Palm Springs

This California city in the Sonoran Desert is well known for its luxury hotels, spas, golf courses, public art, and hot springs. Palm Springs is also a popular food and shopping destination filled with fine restaurants and vintage boutiques. You’ll find a way to stay entertained in Palm Springs as it is one of the best close weekend escapes from LA.

There are some quirky ways your can spend your time around Palm Springs. Stop by the International Banana Museum which holds the Guinness World Record as the largest collection of banana memorabilia. Head to one of the nearby ghost towns to fall back in time and learn about the California Gold Rush. For outdoor lovers, make your way to nearby Joshua Tree National Park.

Or relax under the sun at one of the many pools or golf courses. With the close distance from LA, and as a city with plenty to do, Palm Springs is an easy choice for one of the best three-day road trips from Los Angeles. 

7) Big Bear Lake

A drive to Big Bear Lake is another one of the best road trips in California . It’s located in the San Bernardino Mountains, about 2.5 hours from Los Angeles.

With over 100 miles of trails and 22 miles of shoreline, summer is a great time to visit. Go hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, or swimming. Make a trip in the winter to ski and snowboard over 1000 acres at Bear Mountain or Big Bear Mountain Resort. There are plenty of gear shops to rent equipment for all seasonal activities.

Big Bear Lake is probably the closest pine forest to Los Angeles and is a place you should definitely check out!

8) Orange County Beaches

While it’s possible to make a day trip from Los Angeles to one of the nearby sand beaches, avoid LA traffic, and stay for a weekend!

Huntington Beach is the perfect beach for families with kids. The beach is about 2 miles long and great for surfing, swimming, fishing, long walks, and volleyball. Don’t miss the Huntington Beach Pier, fire-rings for bonfires, and baseball courts located near the beach.

Laguna Beach is well known for its art galleries, beaches, and coves. It’s also known for its extensive trail system along the water with hiking, running, and biking opportunities.

Visit Heisler Park for tidepools and sculptures or check out Victoria Beach for white sand and the Pirate Tower. Laguna Beach also has surfing, summer art festivals, and a great overall atmosphere.

These California Beaches are cleaner and safer than LA’s nearby Long Beach, making them an easy choice for weekend road trips!

9) Pacific Coast Highway

The drive along the famous Highway 1 is one of the best road trips from Los Angeles. Stop in at one of the many beach towns along the coast or enjoy the views from some of the gorgeous overlooks.

If you drive far enough north stop at Carmel-by-the-Sea , a cute town for shopping and dining along the coast. The town of Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its historic buildings of the Carmel Missions and its fairytale-like cottages and galleries.

As you pass through Santa Barbara stop at one of the many golf courses. Continuing North, bring your camera to snap some shots of the Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls in Big Sur. Head to a nature preserve for a chance to see marine wildlife.

It is easy to turn this road trip into a camping trip because of the numerous campgrounds along Highway 1.

10) San Francisco

Continue your trip up the Pacific Coast Highway all the way to San Francisco. As the fourth largest city in California , San Francisco offers many things to do for any type of traveller.

Head to Fisherman’s Wharf to shop, dine, and see the famous sea lions at Pier 39. Stop by Boudin bakery for a taste of San Francisco’s renowned sourdough bread. Take the ferry to Alcatraz to see the historic federal prison . Spend a day at Golden Gate Park to visit museums, look for bison, or enjoy the botanical gardens. End your day at Ocean Beach on the west end of the park.

Drive across the famous Golden Gate Bridge to explore the Marin Headlands where you’ll get some of the best views of the bay. While in the North Bay, reserve a parking spot at Muir Woods National Monument to see the giant Redwood trees.

There are more than enough ways to stay occupied in this California city but be sure to pack a jacket and layers because temperatures are much cooler up here compared to LA!

11) San Diego

70 miles of coastal beaches, stunning parks, and a warm, Mediterranean climate year-round all contribute to the charming city that is San Diego . Only about two hours south of Los Angeles this city is perfect for many types of weekend getaways.

Enjoy the Pacific Ocean views at Torrey Pines State National Reserve. Look for marine wildlife at the La Jolla Cove tidepools. Head to Pacific Beach for cool vibes.

Explore the city’s downtown and grab a coffee at a local cafe or stop by Balboa Park. Pop in at some of over 150 breweries in San Diego for some tasty craft beer. Take the kids to the historic beachfront amusement park, Belmont Park. There are so many ways to enjoy your time in San Diego!  

Also, nearby to San Diego is Anza Borrego State Park , part of the Sonoran Desert, which has unique land formations, amazing stargazing, hiking, washes, and more. It’s a great stop to add to your San Diego road trip if you enjoy the desert.

12) Catalina Island

Take a ferry over to Catalina Island for one of the more unique road trips from Los Angeles. Catalina Island is one of the Channel Islands and is only 22 miles long by 8 miles across, but it home to stunning beaches, land and sea activities, and fine hotels and dining.

While most of the island is undeveloped, there are two ‘cities’, where day trip adventures are operated from – the evocatively-named Two Harbors and Avalon.

Spend your day hiking the Trans Catalina Trail, ziplining over the forest, or join a fishing or kayaking tour. End your day at one of many restaurants in town. The natural beauty of the island with modern comforts makes it perfect for a weekend, and a fantastic destination for a road trip from Los Angeles!

17 Best Winter Road Trips from Los Angeles

Filled with stars and sunshine, Los Angeles is one of California's most popular tourist destinations with bustling beaches, whimsical theme parks, and the tantalizing prospect of seeing a celebrity. Whether you're from SoCal or just visiting, more adventure awaits beyond the City of Angels.

On our list of the 17 best winter trips from Los Angeles you'll find snowy mountains, desert wilderness, small-town celebrations, sumptuous hot springs, and a chance to trade in your skis for a surfboard.

Read on below to find the best routes for the most exciting and festive winter road trips from L.A. as well as plenty of astounding sights and merry happenings to enjoy once you arrive.

Best winter road trips from Los Angeles: a quick overview

Single day trips (under 3 hours each way).

These are some of the closest places to check out, where you can play in the snow or surf the waves in less than a three-hour drive from Los Angeles.

1. Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake, CA

2 hours 20 mins from Los Angeles (110 miles)

Why you should visit: Known as the “Alps of Southern California,” these are the most accessible winter sport locations from Los Angeles , and both feature atmospheric lakeside communities.

Whether you've been waiting all year for that first dusting of powder, or you want to adventure somewhere new with familiar winter scenery, both Arrowhead and Big Bear make the best of the chilly months.

How to get there: Take Interstate 10 (I-10) to San Bernardino via California Route 210 East. North of downtown San Bernardino, follow CA Route 18 north to Lake Arrowhead. After seeing the sights there, continue along CA Route 18 towards Big Bear Lake.

Our highlights: Located at over 5,000 feet, there are plenty of places to ski around Lake Arrowhead, including Rim Nordic Ski Area and Snow Valley Mountain Resort.

Do you want to have fun on the snowy hills, but skiing and snowboarding don't appeal to you? At Arrowhead you can go snow tubing! Serviced by a lift, all that's left for you to do is get in a tube and whoosh down the hill, laughing all the way.

For great entertainment in a memorable venue, look no further than the Tudor House in Lake Arrowhead. Built in the prohibition era, this mansion houses an all-American restaurant and intimate stage where you can catch jazz performances, plays, and stand-up, and a ritzy New Year's Eve ballroom celebration.

Year-round, you can take a tour on Lake Arrowhead Queen Paddleboat. From here you can experience the lake scenery from a novel perspective and enjoy the humorous commentary of one of the friendly guides.

Venturing a little higher up to Big Bear, even more snowy slopes and fun await you. In addition to popular skiing and snowboarding spots that have recently been updated by new management, you can also see parts of the park via zipline or horseback.

Bonus: At Lake Arrowhead you can even see Santa! Though you might be too big to sit on Old Saint Nick's lap, Skypark's Santa's Village contains the area's only skating rink where you can take in all the festive decorations as you glide along the ice.

Our travel tips: Be prepared for your mountain journey. Due to the proximity to densely populated LA, it is best to book any accommodation well in advance, especially if you're traveling on the weekend.

By law, you also have to carry tire chains in your vehicle if you're going to drive these mountain roads in the winter.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake

2. Santa Barbara and Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, CA

2 hours 10 mins from Los Angeles (120 miles)

Why you should visit: Santa Barbara is simply one of the most pleasant places on earth. With mild weather, bright bougainvillea climbing over gates and walls, and an adorable downtown all caressed by a Pacific breeze, it's not hard to see why some call it “the American Riviera.”

The rocky hills and chaparral of central California are great to explore during the temperate winter months, especially since many ponds and waterfalls might dry up during the searing summer heat.

How to get there: Head northwest towards Oxnard via US Route 101 until you reach Santa Barbara. To get to Cachuma Lake, continue north and hop on San Marcos Pass Road until you see the turn-off for the Lake.

Our highlights: As you approach Santa Barbara , make a pit stop in quiet Summerland. Here you will find the Buddha-filled labyrinth that is Sacred Space. This is a one-of-a-kind treasure and a great place to have a contemplative winter moment with a cup of tea by a quiet pond.

Even though there might not be any snow, Santa Barbara loves to celebrate the winter holidays. Take a trip to see all the most dazzling and decked-out houses on the Santa Barbara Trolley of Lights tour.

A popular day trip from Santa Barbara, Lake Cachuma is a great place to hike, fish for trout, or even camp in a yurt. If you can come on a Saturday, be sure to join the morning nature walk led by a naturalist along the Oak Canyon Trail to learn about the natural history and ecosystems of this central Californian environment.

Just an 18-mile drive from Cachuma Lake, you can explore Nojoqui Falls Park which features extensive trails and a distinctive waterfall you can reach after a 10-minute walk from the parking lot.

Bonus: There's a great winter market in the heart of Downtown Santa Barbara called the La Arcada Christmas Walk. Every December this premier shopping area transforms into a jovial celebration of Christmas with decorations, holiday snacks, and carolers. Check the town's website for the exact date of this year's walk.

Our travel tips: Even though some of our favorite special events take place on the weekend, be prepared for crowds and try to stay for at least one weekday to enjoy the beaches and ambience of Santa Barbara in a more relaxed way.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

3. San Diego and La Jolla, CA

1 hour 50 mins from Los Angeles (120 miles)

Why you should visit: For a perfect winter holiday by the beach, look no further than San Diego which has 17 miles of coastline and a downtown area much more defined by a coastal climate and beach culture than Los Angeles's.

La Jolla is home to some of the best that San Diego has to offer, including rugged coastal beaches with colorful tide pools, the world-famous Torrey Pines Golf Course, and the upscale La Jolla Village where you can shop and enjoy an exquisite seaside meal.

How to get there: Head South from LA towards Anaheim on I-5. Take that all the way to San Diego.

Our highlights: Here you won't have to brave a blizzard to get some of that holiday shopping in. San Diego is full of fancy outdoor malls from Westfield in La Jolla to Fashion Valley in Mission Valley. For those who prefer boutique shopping, La Jolla has plenty of options including the popular Hi Sweetheart.

Take in a spectacular winter sunset as you explore the 12-mile-long Mission Bay Bike Path on a classic cruiser. There are plenty of places to rent a bike in the Mission beach area.

Balboa Park December Nights is a beloved holiday event that's been held for over 40 years in San Diego. Balboa Park is already a must visit attraction here, with manicured gardens, trails, and 17 museums. Yet for three nights in December, areas of the park are transformed into a SoCal version of a winter wonderland, perfect for a romantic evening stroll in search of mistletoe.

Explore the unique coastline on a guided sea kayak tour of La Jolla Cave. In the winter you can also catch a glimpse of migrating whales, sea lions, and turtles.

In a season traditionally associated with skiing, why don't you try something new this winter with surf lessons? The mild weather and ample surfing breaks have long established San Diego as a great place to take up this relaxing ocean sport.

Bonus: We promise that you haven't seen a holiday parade like this before! The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is a fantastic aquatic tribute to the season of lights that has been brining joy and smiles to San Diegans for over 50 years.

Dozens of boats decorated according to a yearly theme glide between Coronado Island and the Embarcadero Marina on two Sunday evenings in December.

Our travel tips: In case you're asking for directions or tips about the best restaurants in La Jolla, remember that it has retained its Spanish pronunciation of “la hoy-ya”.

San Diego is only 25 miles from the Mexican border and locals and visitors alike enjoy the radical change of scenery that Tijuana, Mexico offers. You can even take a trolley all the way from San Diego to the San Ysidro border.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to San Diego

4. Mt. Baldy and Wrightwood, CA

2 hours 30 mins from Los Angeles (120 miles)

Why you should visit: A go-to winter excursion for many in SoCal, both Wrightwood and Mt. San Antonio are in the San Gabriel Mountains and offer picturesque snowy peaks and forests to traverse.

Mt. San Antonio, affectionately known as "Mt. Baldy" for the lack of trees near its summit, is the highest peak in Los Angeles County. From its 10,000 foot high vantage point, you can see a sweeping landscape of purple and blue hills with patches of snow, depending on when you visit.

How to get there: Follow I-210 through Sierra Madre until you reach Claremont, then take Mt. Baldy Road to the trailhead. Coming back, follow Mt. Baldy Road and N. Mountain Avenue to CA Route 210. In Etiwanda, take I-5 N to Cajon Junction, from where you'll take state routes west to Wrightwood.

This route includes a stop by Mt. Baldy Resort and Trailhead. Alternatively, you could cut out an hour of driving time if you drive straight to Wrightwood and hike to a mountain viewpoint from there where you can see Mt. Baldy.

Our highlights: On the way to Mt. Baldy, consider stopping for breakfast or coffee in the rustic hillside community of Sierra Madre, just north of I-210. The Mt. Wilson Trail is also popular with local hikers and walking a section of it could get you in the mood for more demanding treks ahead.

Weather permitting, a moderately challenging hike along the 11-mile trail to summit Mt. Baldy can be just what the doctor ordered in terms of some winter adventure. When clear skies prevail, especially after rain, the view from the summit stretches from the desert to the Pacific Ocean.

At the Wrightwood Mountain High Resort, you can ski, snowboard, go tubing, or even just take a chair ride to a viewpoint for a picnic lunch. In case you've always wanted to learn how to ski, they also have great instructors and gentle slopes for beginners.

Enjoy a slower pace of life in Wrightwood village, which gets particularly festive around the holidays. To whet your whistle, stop by the beloved Raccoon Saloon, which is welcoming and cheerful around the holidays.

Wrightwood also sits along the 2,653- mile-long Pacific Coast Trail. There are plenty of opportunities for exploring the forest trails in any season.

Bonus: Wrightwood was home to acclaimed author and psychedelic experimenter Aldous Huxley from 1945-1950. Part of the home he lived in with his wife Maria still stands along Highway 2. Fortunately, the Wrightwood of today feels miles away from the "Brave New World” of high-paced modernity.

Our travel tips: The best times to see snow in the San Gabriel Mountains is from mid-December through February, a shorter window than in other mountainous regions.

Make sure to arrive in Wrightwood early in the morning and leave the area in the early afternoon if you're doing a weekend trip to avoid horrendous traffic.

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Weekend trips (3-6 hours each way)

If you have more than a day to play, try venturing out a bit further on one of these weekend trips into the desert of southern California for the ultimate winter experience.

5. Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park, CA

2 hours 40 mins from Los Angeles (150 miles)

Why you should visit: This is a road trip with two contrasting destinations: the luxury of a celebrity resort town, brimming with spas, and the austerity of a vast desert filled with iconic trees and ancient rock formations.

Palm Springs' winter weather is what established it as a celebrity hideout in the 1930s. Now, it is well-known as an upbeat tourist destination, home to a thriving LBGTQ+ community as well as world-famous festivals like Coachella.

Barely an hour away, you can take in the majestic beauty of Joshua Tree as part of a day hike or longer camping trip.

How to get there: Head east along I-10 until you come to Whitewater, from there head south for a few miles until you get to Palm Springs. After enjoying your time there, follow N Indian Canyon Drive to CA Route 62 E which will take you via Yucca Valley to Joshua Tree National Park.

Our highlights: To get a full sense of Palm Springs, cruise along Palm Canyon Drive in your car or on a bike. Against the mountain backdrop visible through the palms, you'll see all the great shops and restaurants that line this main drag.

On Thursday evenings, come for VillageFest which features an array of unique, local vendors and a lively community atmosphere.

In December there are multiple holiday events, such as the Festival of Lights Parade, the Parade of Lights & Holiday Festival, and the WildLights Holiday Festival at the Living Desert. So you'll have plenty of opportunities to get in the holiday spirit no matter when you visit.

Melt away any residual holiday stress at one of Palm Springs' acclaimed spas, many of which are fed by water from local natural springs. The Well Spa and the Spa at Desert Springs both feel like oases surrounded by calming desert scenes.

Once you get over to Joshua Tree, go for a sunrise or sunset hike through the winding trails and cacti to see a kaleidoscopic display of color across the desert landscape. It is truly breathtaking and one of the features that draw millions of people to this park every year. Try the trails at Cholla Cactus Garden or Hidden Valley Nature Trail.

If you want to fully experience the peace of the desert near the winter solstice, break out that parka and a thermos of your favorite hot beverage for an evening of stargazing. With clear skies far away from the city lights, you'll appreciate the stillness of nature and the season in a whole new way.

Bonus: In early January, you can do the other kind of star gazing at the Palm Springs International Film Festival which runs for over two weeks and features dozens of screenings, some with celebrities in attendance. Make sure to reserve your pass early.

Our travel tips: The high tourist season in Palm Springs is from December to April, so to avoid the most crowds and premium prices, aim to visit in November or early in December.

Be prepared for the remoteness and limited amenities of Joshua Tree by bringing more water than you think you'll need and plenty of food, for you'll find none in the park. Also, be sure to pack out what you bring in for a picnic hike.

There's also limited cell service in the park so send all those emails and texts before you escape into the beauty of nature.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Palm Springs

Long weekend trips (5-8 hours each way)

Need to get away for a little longer? We got you covered! These trips are great for a few nights away from your routine in an exciting setting.

6. Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park

5 hours 10 mins from Los Angeles (260 miles)

Why you should visit: In addition to containing the largest Sequoia forests in the US and deep, dramatic canyons, both Sequoia and Kings Canyon abound with chances to explore wild landscapes and be humbled while walking among giants with snowy boughs.

These two outstanding National Parks in the Sierra range are often passed over as millions head towards Yosemite to the north, but those folks have no idea what they're missing! Take advantage of fewer crowds and Yosemite-like scenery at King's Canyon and Sequoia on your own winter adventure.

How to get there: From Los Angeles, take I-5 and head towards Bakersfield. After passing there, head northeast along CA Route 65 all the way to Exeter. Then take Sierra Drive through Three Rivers to Sequoia National Park.

From there, follow Sierra Drive back to the Junction with Highway 216/Lomitas Drive, across the river, and follow signs to Pinehurst, but stay on the highway until it links with CA Route 180 E which will take you close to the entrance of the Kings Canyon Park.

Note that this winter route is slightly longer due to road closures.

Our highlights: In addition to Sequoia's snow-filled meadows and cross-country skiing trails which you can explore at your leisure, on winter weekends the Park Services offer guided snowshoe walks led by a naturalist.

After a day's expedition, you can toast your toes around the fireplace in the Great Room Lobby.

In case you really want to get away from it all this winter, you can make reservations at the Pear Lake Winter Hut in Sequoia Park. A six-mile hike with moderate elevation gain will bring to this isolated lake enveloped in pin-drop silence and snow, perfect for a retreat or a romantic weekend getaway.

As you approach King's Canyon, walk around Grant's Grove to see the General Grant Tree, also known as “The Nation's Christmas Tree.” It is fit for the living room of giants.

A few miles from Grant's Grove you will find the spectacular King's Canyon Panorama Point. This fantastic lookout point is all the more enchanting when the surrounding forest is blanketed with snow.

Also accessible in the winter is Hume Lake, on the way to Panorama Point. Hike the scenic 2.8-mile loop around the frosty lake and then get a nibble and a warm drink at the lakeside snack shop.

King's Canyon is home to over 2,000 giant sequoias and Sequoia National Park contains 24 redwood groves as well as the world's largest tree by mass, General Sherman. What an extra treat it is to see this gentle giant surrounded by powdery snow.

Our travel tips: If you come at the very beginning of winter in November, before heavy snowfall affects the area, take the scenic drive along Generals Highway between Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park

Extreme winter weather can also close down CA Route 180, so check ahead of your trip for current conditions. Try to take an AWD vehicle and carrying chains is a must.

Bring crampons or micro spikes for hiking frozen trails without slipping.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

7. Las Vegas and Hoover Dam, NV

4 hours 40 mins from Los Angeles (310 miles)

Why you should visit: In a city famed for glittering lights and top-notch shows, it seems that Las Vegas is always in a festive spirit and all the more so during the holidays.

In addition to countless Christmas-themed attractions in Las Vegas, the winter is a great time to check out nearby sights such as the Hoover Dam. The mild weather makes it easier to take long walks in the surrounding desert.

How to get there: This is a straightforward trip , mostly along I-15 which stretches all the way from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. From there take I-11 south from Las Vegas for 35 miles to reach Hoover Dam.

Our highlights: For ornate decorations and twinkling lights, take a walk through the Bellagio Conservatory, where you'll also find an elf or two and a 40-foot-tall Christmas tree glistening with 7,000 lights and 2,500 ornaments.

What could be more wintery and romantic than skating hand in hand along the ice? Every year the Cosmopolitan turns its pool into a very Las Vegas Christmas-themed ice rink, surrounded by toasty fire pits and s'more stations.

Many of Las Vegas' long-running shows like All Motown and Legends in Concert have a special program for December to make the season extra bright. Even if you have seen these shows before, be prepared for a whole new level of festive entertainment.

The Hoover Dam is a marvel of engineering that towers at 726 feet high and contains over 4 million cubic yards of concrete. No wonder it is a must-see tourist stop and if you visit during the winter, you'll find it much less crowded than other times of the year.

Another great day trip from Las Vegas to feel the magic of the season and even get some skiing in Lee Canyon. Try to visit during the week to avoid the weekend crowds, especially during school vacations.

Bonus: Las Vegas is a prime destination for champagne-fueled New Year's Eve celebrations. At the over-the-top fireworks display along the Strip you will see over 11,500 flares and fireworks expertly crafted by dozens of behind-the-scenes pyrotechnicians.

Our travel tips: Bring plenty of layers as the daytime temperatures can be above 70 degrees Fahrenheit - before dropping dramatically at night.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas

8. Mojave National Preserve and Death Valley, CA

5 hours 40 mins from Los Angeles (310 miles)

Why you should visit: The rugged expanses of desert wilderness you will experience in Mojave National Preserve and Death Valley National Park are almost unparalleled in the US and home to unique flora and fauna.

As you can imagine, this area experiences sweltering heat during the summer, making this preserve and park perfect for a winter road trip into hauntingly beautiful terrain.

How to get there: From Los Angeles, take I-15 E to Baker, CA then follow smaller roads and signs to an entrance to Mojave. From Baker, take Death Valley Road/CA Route 127 to Death Valley Junction, then CA Route 190 west to Park Village where you'll see signs for the park entrance.

Our highlights: An outstanding feature of Mojave National Preserve and a must-see for any geology enthusiast is the extensive network of extinct volcanoes, called cinder cones, at the Cima Volcanic Field. A weathered set of iron wrought stairs leads into a lava tube, which can be reached via an unpaved road leading to Aiken Mine.

An accessible, and fun, part of the preserve to explore is the Kelso Dunes. They are also known as the singing dunes due to the unique sound produced by the sand.

Once you reach Death Valley, there are even more dunes to explore, some of the most visited being Eureka Dunes and Mesquite Dunes. Both places are great for setting up a tripod and trying your hand at long-exposure night photography to capture a canopy of stars over the desert dunes.

A wonderful introductory hike in Death Valley is Golden Canyon, an interpretive trail through the badlands which shows off striking rock formations. Be sure to grab a pamphlet near the trailhead to read more about the markers along the way.

Take your high spirits to the lowest point in the US. Badwater Basin sits 282 feet below sea level and is covered in shimmering salt flats. Not quite the white Christmas you expected!

Bonus: Death Valley has been the site of many filming locations. One of the most stunning locations on-screen or off is the Artist's Palette, a rainbow-colored patch of hills created by volcanic deposits. Part of the original Star Wars was filled here when R2-D2 crossed a lonely canyon.

Our travel tips: On your way from Mojave to Death Valley, make sure to stop at Zabriskie Point to take in the view and take a selfie with the striated rock formations that put this lookout on the map.

Both of these areas are extremely remote, arid, and vast. Unless traveling on an off-road vehicle, stay on maintained roads or compact dirt roads and make sure you have a full tank of gas and plenty of extra water in the car.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Death Valley National Park

9. Big Sur and Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

6 hours 40 mins from Los Angeles (340 miles)

Why you should visit: When you talk to anyone who has been to Big Sur their eyes immediately light up. Go see what they have seen and experience the magic of central California for yourself.

Ocean views abound along Highway 1, which is an iconic road trip in itself. Big Sur is a place where towering mountains and cliffs meet the sea, but there is still enough sunshine to give it a subtropical feel on a bright winter's day.

How to get there: From Los Angeles drive through Santa Monica and Malibu to get to US Route 101 north. This merges into California Highway 1 north along the coast and heads straight to Big Sur, passing many beautiful beaches and seaside communities like Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo along the way.

After you've taken in the delight that is Big Sur, just continue on CA-1 N to get to Carmel-by-the-Sea from there.

Most of this route is right beside the Pacific Ocean, making it one of the most scenic coastal routes in America, but occasionally in there is thick fog, so drive carefully.

Our highlights: Dotted all along the Big Sur Coast are coves and hidden beaches. Some of our favorites are McWay Cove Beach , which also boasts a beautiful waterfall and Pfeiffer Beach with its highly photogenic keyhole rock.

The dramatic scenery of mountains meeting the ocean which defines Big Sur is best explored on foot and there are plenty of great trails. The Salmon Creek Trail takes you towards the rugged Silver Peak Wilderness, but there's also an easy hike to a 120-foot waterfall.

For a walk along the coast, try the San Carpoforo Creek Trail which winds through unique coastal flora to a quiet beach.

Every January, thousands of elephant seals come to the Piedras Blancas Rookery near San Simeon to give birth to their pups. This is one of the only places where the public has easy, hike-in, access to view these imposing sea mammals in their favorite breeding grounds.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an adorable and affluent coastal community filled with almost fairytale-like architecture. All of its charms are accentuated during the holiday season, with decorations throughout the town, frequent performances in the square, wine tastings, and a particularly festive Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony at Devendorf Park which takes place in early December.

Bonus: In Carmel-by-the-Sea, you can stock up on plenty of seasonal confections at the Cottage of Sweets, named one of America's best sweet shops in 2019. While it had been in business for over 60 years, its picturesque building was built in 1922 and was formerly a weaving shop.

Our travel tips: Just north of Carmel, you can do the scenic 17-Mile Drive and explore Pebble Beach and Monterey, which is home to one of the best aquariums in the world and Monterey State Beach .

While the Big Sur prices tend to dip in the winter, prepare to pay a bit more in Carmel, which draws lots of holiday visitors from the nearby San Francisco Bay Area.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Big Sur

10. Zion National Park and Dixie National Forest, UT

7 hours 50 mins from Los Angeles (480 miles)

Why you should visit: Zion Canyon National Park is one of America's most popular parks and for good reason: it can be explored from above, below, and everywhere in between. Visiting in winter means quieter and space to yourself in this enchanting landscape.

Not too far away from Zion, the red rocks throughout Dixie stand out in even more contrast when surrounded by bright, white snow.

How to get there: Take I-15 from Los Angeles, past Las Vegas, all the way to Washington, UT where you'll see UT-9 E. Take that east for the last stretch of the journey into Zion National Park.

To get to Dixie, continue on UT-9 E until Mt. Carmel Junction, where Utah Route 89 will take you north into the forest.

Our highlights: For an exhilarating drive with breathtaking views of the park, cruise along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and have that camera ready.

The area of Zion Canyon was home to the Anasazi civilization that flourished around 1,500 BC. Pictographs and petroglyphs can be found around the park, including one site very close to the park's south entrance.

Even in the winter, you can still wade through the popular Narrows in Zion Canyon, though expect water in the 30-40 degree Fahrenheit range. To make your hike safer and more enjoyable during this time of year, consider renting a wetsuit.

Observation Point is an understated name for one of the most sweeping and magnificent vistas in Utah. You can get there via a 2-3 hour hike. No matter how strenuous the journey is, the rewarding view will more than make up for it.

With fewer crowds and the muffling effect of snow, winter is the perfect time to spot more elusive wildlife in Zion from bald eagles to elk and bighorn sheep.

Dixie National Forest is blanketed in snow and ice during the winter months, offering some unique ways to explore the park in addition to hiking. Try touring the park on cross-country skis to get that heart rate up or by snowmobile for a rush of adrenaline.

Go for a cave hike in Dixie National Forest. While extreme winter weather can cut off access to the Mammoth Cave, during a milder winter or close to the shoulder season we think a visit to this extensive cave system is a unique and eerie treat.

If you also wanted to hit the slopes on this trip, near Dixie you can ski and snowboard at Brian Head Ski Resort, which has excellent, low-humidity conditions and 71 ski trails.

Our travel tips: While the lower elevations of Zion only see occasional snow, be prepared for icy conditions if you're planning to drive in higher elevations. Good tires and a car with AWD would be helpful.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Zion National Park

11. Phoenix, AZ

7 hours 20 mins from Los Angeles (480 miles)

Why you should visit: Located in the sunniest state in the country, Phoenix is rightly known as “The Valley of the Sun” and has long attracted “snowbirds” fleeing frigid conditions in the north.

Like the mythical bird rising from ashes, this vibrant city rises from the seemingly lifeless desert. No time of the year is Phoenix livelier and more inviting than the winter and early months of spring, with wildflowers, festivals, and temperate weather for plenty of outdoor fun.

How to get there: Take I-5 to San Diego then start heading east on I-8 through Yuma, AZ until Glia Bend, where you'll take Arizona Route 85 towards Phoenix.

Our highlights: For a uniquely Southwestern take on the holidays and an unforgettably enchanting evening, see Las Noches de las Luminarias in the Desert Botanical Gardens.

On this special night, volunteers line the rails of the gardens with 8,000 luminaria bags and live music is played around the garden. Be sure to book your tickets early as it regularly sells out.

In any season the Heard Museum is one of Phoenix's top attractions, but in the week following Christmas, it is even more inviting. Every year during Holidays at the Heard, the cultures of Southwestern Native Americans are celebrated in their living forms.

From sampling some frybread to mesmerizing Hoop Dancing, this is an event you won't want to miss.

Have you ever seen a rock that looks a little like a Flintstones-themed spaceship? If not, then you'll understand the allure of Hole in the Rock, a local favorite for watching sunsets over the Sonoran Desert. As the name suggests, there is a hole in this very large rock, perfect for frame-in-frame photos.

Perhaps Phoenix's naturally low humidity plays a role in its housing the Musical Instrument Museum, a truly unique and highly interactive museum that will prove engrossing for trained musicians and novices alike.

Bonus : Did you know that for almost 20 years rock star Alice Cooper has had a holiday fundraiser in Phoenix? Deemed “Christmas Pudding,” it usually happens in early December and previous guest acts have included Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine and Johnny Depp.

Our travel tips: On this trip, you could also choose to stay a night in San Diego and enjoy some time around the marina.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Phoenix

12. Lake Tahoe, CA

9 hours 10 mins from Los Angeles (490 miles)

Why you should visit: The deep, pristine waters of Lake Tahoe make it the largest alpine lake in the US, which attracts millions of visitors every year. Come December, when it is transformed into a winter wonderland surrounded by powdery slopes, the draw only intensifies.

Whether you like to ski, snowboard, or simply sip Cognac fireside at a lodge, Tahoe is one of the most enjoyable and magical places to visit in the cooler months.

How to get there: Drive from Los Angeles along CA Route 14 towards Lancaster and continue for about 300 miles as the road changes to US Route 395 N. In Big Pine, take White Mountain Road to reach Inyo National Forest.

After getting back to US-395 N, take that all the way to Mammoth, where you'll see signs for the lakes. When you're ready to head to Tahoe, hop back on US-395, past Mono Lake, briefly over the Nevada border, and back into CA at South Lake Tahoe via Highway 50.

Our highlights: When most people mention a winter Tahoe trip , the first thing that comes to mind is a skiing paradise. In the south, you'll find Heavenly Ski Resort and on the north side of the lake, people flock to the newly renamed Palisades and Sugar Bowl, which sometimes sees 500 inches of snow in a year.

Whether you ski or not, one of the best ways to take in the full grandeur of Tahoe is with a Gondola ride up to Heavenly Resort. First, stop at the observation deck to see the lake and surrounding mountains in all their frozen glory, then continue your gondola ride up to the lodge to warm up with a drink in a cozy setting.

Tahoe never fully freezes over, due to its depth, so there are still plenty of beaches and lakeside trails to walk and enjoy the mesmerizing waters. Be sure to save some time to simply take it all in by the lake.

There are outdoor skating rinks in both north and South Lake Tahoe at Palisades and Heavenly. What could be merrier than gliding around the ice surrounded by the dazzling, snow-covered Sierras?

A short distance from South Lake Tahoe you'll find Emerald Bay, with its own hidden gem, the Vikingsholm Castle. While the short hike to the castle from the parking lot can get a bit icy in the winter, the careful trekker will be rewarded with a chance to explore the exterior of this snow-laden 1929 mansion inspired by Nordic architecture.

Bonus: The Tahoe Basin contains an estimated 17 million trees, many of them Jeffery Pines. The up-and-coming microbrewery scene has decided to incorporate the abundance of pine needles into their craft brews. You can taste the pine notes for yourself at one of these breweries.

Our travel tips: Both Mammoth Lakes and Inyo National Forests are full of possibilities for winter adventures, so consider spending some time in each of these areas as well.

Sudden snowstorms and icy conditions can shut down some of the Sierra roads, so check for closures before you head out and be sure to have chains in the trunk.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe

Longer trips (over 8 hours each way)

Now the adventure is really calling, and you have the perfect playlist to take you there. The trips below deserve to be savored over several days and several feature must-see holiday happenings.

13. San Francisco and Napa Valley, CA

9 hours 50 mins from Los Angeles (550 miles)

Why you should visit: This road trip offers two jewels of Northern California: the ever-beloved city of San Francisco and the Tuscan-like charms of Napa.

Each of these places is a destination in its own right and the fun of a road trip is being able to hop from one to the other, experiencing a huge amount of cultural and geographic variety over a few hours' drive as you head from the misty coast to the golden valley of Napa.

This trip also has a bonus stop a little north of Napa, but the adventurous at heart won't mind the extra mileage.

How to get there: From Los Angeles follow I-5 all the way north to Livermore, where you'll take I-580 W across the Bay Bridge and into San Francisco. From there, head north on US Route 101 and stop by the enchanting Muir Woods National Monument, north of Marin.

Get back on US-101 N and follow several smaller highways east to get to Napa. CA Highway 128 W takes you through the heart of Napa Valley, Navigate back to CA-101 N to get to Orr Springs Road.

Our highlights: Union Square is the epicenter of Christmas in San Francisco. You can ride on one of the city's iconic cable cars from Market Street to reach this urban take on a winter wonderland, complete with a towering tree and open-air ice skating rink. But for something truly decadent, head to the historic Westin St. Francis Hotel to marvel at the intricately decorated sugar castles in the lobby.

San Francisco is also home to the Great Dickens Fair over several weekends between November and December. See plenty of period costumes, performances, and games in a replica of 19th-century London.

Napa is one of the premier wine-producing regions in California, replete with historic and quaint towns nestled in the valley. In addition to traditional wine tasting and Michelin-star restaurants, all these small towns enjoy celebrating the festive season in their own ways.

Catch the Lighted Tractor Parade in Calistoga or take a wine train to Yountville where you can also learn how to make your own gourmet chocolates.

Further north, find some winter rejuvenation at the Orr Hot Springs Resort in the Mendocino mountains. This isn't your typical resort; with optional clothing and a communal kitchen, it is a deep dive into the more eclectic customs cultivated by the free spirits of Northern California.

Bonus: One of the most glamorous and magical ways to experience the holidays in San Francisco is by seeing the SF Ballet's production of the Nutcracker. Being the oldest ballet company in the US, they first premiered Tchaikovsky's whimsical masterpiece in 1944.

Our travel tips: The bridges in and out of San Francisco increasingly rely on electronic payments using FasTrak transponders and they no longer accept cash. You can still pay by card before or 48 hours after your trip to avoid any fines.

Also, beware of intense commuter traffic around San Francisco.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco

14. Grand Canyon and Vermilion Cliffs

9 hours 40 mins from Los Angeles (590 miles)

Why you should visit: Visiting the Grand Canyon in winter is an exhilarating experience for those who have visited the canyon before as well as first-timers. The cooler temperatures allow you to dress in layers and hike without risking heat stroke.

In addition to the chance to gaze out over this natural wonder, occasionally dusted with snow, on this trip you can also spot the roosting site of the California condor. Once declared extinct in the wild in 1987 and successfully re-introduced at Vermillion Cliffs where their numbers continue to grow.

How to get there: Take I-10 east to Prescott, AZ then start heading north to connect with I-40 E in Ash Fork. Take that to Williams, AZ, then head towards Grand Canyon Junction and the South Rim entrance on Arizona Route 64.

Once you've explored the Grand Canyon, take the scenic Desert View Drive to AZ-89 N which will take you to Bitter Springs and the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument.

Our highlights: The South Rim has some of the most photogenic locations in the entire park, including Yavapai Point and Mather Point. You can learn about all the layers of geological history visible in the canyon at the Yavapai Geology Museum, which is open for limited hours during the winter.

Of course, one of the most popular things to do at the Grand Canyon is hike and there are plenty of options for a winter wander. Check out the dual-aspect views from the South Kaibab Trail along a ridge or trek all the way down to the Colorado River via the Bright Angel Trail. Just be careful of ice in portions of the trail that remain shaded.

Usually, Hermit Road to the Hermit Trailhead is closed to car traffic from March to November, so the winter is the only time you can make this scenic drive in your own car then explore the trail with all the energy you saved by driving.

On your way to Vermillion Cliffs, be sure to make a few pitstops along the scenic Desert View Drive. The breathtaking Grandview Point and the 800-year-old Tusayan Ruin are two stops you won't want to miss.

Talk about a comeback! The California condors are making a big one at the Vermillion Cliffs Nation Monument. Intensive conservation efforts since the 1980s have brought their numbers from 22 to over 200.

Now you can view these massive birds with wingspans up to four and a half feet roosting on the ruddy cliffs. Bring a good pair of binoculars.

Bonus: Just in case you thought you'd miss the winter on this trip, be prepared for occasional snow in January and February. Much like icing on the cake, waking up to the glistening snow on the iconic canyon would make this winter trip one to remember.

Our travel tips: In case you make this trip during December, consider an especially festive overnight stop in Prescott, AZ, known as Arizona's Christmas City. At the very beginning of December, they have a jovial parade and lighting of the County's Courthouse surrounded by community cheer.

The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is closed in the winter, which is why this slightly longer route comes via Prescott and the South Rim.

Mather Campground is the only one open during the winter and it would be best to make your reservations in advance.

The weather can change drastically from clear, sunny days to snowstorms, so bring plenty of layers. Some of the trails can get icy, so micro spikes for your boots could help you keep your rear end off the ice.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Grand Canyon

15. Mendocino and Redwood National Park, CA

13 hours 20 mins from Los Angeles (760 miles)

Why you should visit: Coastal sequoias, also called redwoods, are only found between southern Oregon and Central California. They give rise to lush and cathedral-like habitats that envelop you in tranquility from your very first step inside.

The old-growth forests of northern California sometimes feel like a land before time. Come experience this sometimes misty and always enchanting part of the Golden State.

How to get there: Head north on US Route 101 from Los Angeles until you reach Santa Barbara. From there, take CA Highway 154 W to Solvang.

After feeling the Christmas cheer for yourself, navigate back to US-101 N until you reach San Jose, where you'll take I-880 to avoid traffic on the San Francisco Peninsula.

North of the S.F. Bay, you'll get back on US-1010 N in San Rafael. Once you reach Cloverdale, take the smaller Highway 128 to get to Mendocino. From there, follow CA-1 N to US-101 N all the way to Eureka and Redwood National and State Parks.

Our highlights: As you begin your journey from Los Angeles , stop by the Solvang Julefest, which takes place in this small town with proud Danish ancestry all December. Watch the parade or go on one of the holiday food tours.

As you make your way to the Mendocino coast, get on board the Holiday Skunk Train in Willits to enjoy holiday treats and revel in the surrounding redwoods. Look out for Santa's workshop along the way.

Once you make it to the town of Mendocino on the coast, explore the festive atmosphere of the cute downtown. The next day, head out to the sea on a whale-watching trip to see some humpbacks on their winter migration.

After a breathtaking drive along the coast and through the mountains, you will have ample opportunities to stretch your legs along one of the many trails in Redwood National Park and surrounding State Parks.

Over 200 miles of trails are spread across 110,000 acres in the Jedediah Smith Redwoods, Del Norte Coast Redwoods, and Prairie Creek Redwoods. Many trails also lead you through the redwood groves to the crashing waves of the pacific, making for an unforgettable hike.

One of the natural wonders of Redwood National Park is Fern Canyon, which will leave you feeling like there's bound to be a Jurassic beast around the corner. The best part about a winter visit to this part of the park is that you won't need a permit.

Consider making Eureka, CA your home base to explore the forests from. This town built upon milling and lumber trade in the wake of the Gold Rush has dozens of Victorian homes and a rustic Downtown.

During the holidays you can also catch the Trucker's Christmas Parade and see dozens of semis strung up with lights.

Bonus: Redwood National and State Park is home to the tallest tree in the world, Hyperion, which towers at 380 feet. While the area around that tree is off-limits to visitors, you can still walk the Tall Trees Trail which goes down to Redwood Creek and has many trees over 300 feet tall.

Our travel tips: It never snows, but this coast is known as a temperate rainforest, so some waterproof gear with help you stay dry and thoroughly enjoy your winter trip here.

This route passes through the San Francisco Bay Area which can have standstill traffic around commute time. Try to pass through here from 11am to 2pm to avoid the worst of it.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Redwood National Park

16. Denver, CO

17 hours 30 mins from Los Angeles (1,080 miles)

Why you should visit: Nestled in the majestic Rockies, Denver combines outdoor adventure and metropolitan refinement for a great all-in-one trip where you can mix five-star dining with a romp through the woods.

While the Mile High City does see its fair share of snow, there are many sunny days in between and year-round attractions. Sometimes the temperature reaches 60 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can walk the parks comfortably and enjoy a drink at an outdoor café.

How to get there: Hop on I-15 N in LA and take that for about 500 miles, past Las Vegas, to the junction with I-70 E in Sulphurdale, UT. Follow that all the way to CO-82 E which will take you to Aspen.

From there, navigate back to I-70 E and take that to CO-9 in Frisco which will lead you to Breckenridge. From Breckenridge take CO-9 to I-70 E which will take you all the way to Denver.

Our highlights: On your way to Denver, consider a stop by Aspen or Breckenridge, two world-renowned skiing locations, to get a taste of Rocky Mountain magic during the winter.

There's nothing quite so nostalgic as a train station around the holidays and Denver's Union Train Station will surely delight. It is already lively all year round, so the holiday lights and flare are a natural complement to this bustling transit hub.

Denver has its own German-inspired Christkindlmarket where you can browse artisanal goods, sip on mulled wine, and snack on schnitzel in a festive atmosphere.

Walk around the historic Larimer Square which is decorated with lights and holds frequent musical performances around the holidays. It is also full of historic architecture and boutique shops.

The stunning Denver Botanic Gardens is already on the top of many people's must-see lists and while the outdoor gardens are covered with snow, the tropical conservatory serves as an oasis of warmth and color in the winter months.

Denver has a great theater scene, so if you're looking to get out of the cold or just get some culture, check out the Denver Center for the Performing Arts to see what's on offer this season.

Every January, Denver hosts the National Western Stock Show, one of the largest of its kind, which has been going on since 1906. Go see some real broncos at a world-class horse show then holler with the crowds at a rodeo.

Our travel tips: While there are many parks within Denver, the mountains proper are quite a distance away. So, if you want to do a more strenuous hike, bike ride, or ski, you'll need to drive a bit outside the city. Rocky Mountain National Park is 66 miles from Denver.

Given that Denver is situated at over 5,000 feet you can feel the effects of the altitude and dehydrate easily. So, drink plenty of water and dress in layers to stay comfortable.

17. Grand Tetons, WY and Goldbug Hot Springs, ID

19 hours from Los Angeles (1,230 miles)

Why you should visit: From snow-covered peaks to sultry hot springs, this trip offers a unique and indulgent way to experience the wilderness in winter.

Grand Teton National Park has endless trails and rugged mountain vistas which are awe-inspiring any time of the year, but the chance to see them dusted with snow and surrounded by far fewer visitors is a winter bonus.

At your second stop near Elk Bend, ID, you will have a chance to venture off the beaten track to a true Idaho gem where you can relax in natural hot springs surrounded by the pristine nature of the Salmon-Challis National Forest.

How to get there: Take I-15 N through Las Vegas and Salt Lake City for 824 miles. In McCammon take US Highway 30 East to Soda Springs, then continue north on US Highways 34 and 89 to Jackson, WY. From there take US Route 191 N to Grant Tetons.

To get to GoldBug Hot Springs, navigate to Highway 33 from Jackson, following that all the way to Mud Lake where you'll get on US Route 28 N to Salmon. From there, take US Route 93 S to Warm Springs, where the trailhead to Goldbug begins.

Our highlights: A wonderful winter offering by the park service in Grand Teton is a guided snowshoeing tour led by a park Ranger who can point out various animal tracks and natural features of the park. These guided treks need to be booked in advance.

In case you like the invigoration of a cross-country ski expedition, there are miles of well-maintained tracks in Grand Teton to explore. A very accessible one is along Teton Park Road beginning at the Taggart Lake Trailhead. Some of them are amongst the most spectacular in the world.

One of Idaho's best-kept secrets is an impressive offering of natural hot springs in spectacular backcountry locations. Goldbug is one such spring loved by many outdoor enthusiasts.

The 3.6-mile hike to Goldbug is moderately challenging, but the payoff is huge, with a chance to soak in pools above 100 degrees Fahrenheit and take in the magnificent hill views.

If you would love to have a relaxing soak without the hike, Challis Hot Springs is less than an hour's drive from Elk Bend, ID and has plenty of hill views to enjoy from their warm pools.

Bonus: With the way that Goldbug springs emerge from the V-shaped valley they are essentially natural infinity pools! Get ready to feel like a million bucks at this priceless backcountry refuge.

Our travel tips: On your way to the Grand Tetons, consider overnight stops in Las Vegas, NV or Salt Lake City, UT which are both conveniently along I-15.

There's no winter camping in Grand Teton National Park, but there are plenty of cozy places to stay in nearby Jackson, WY just a few miles from the park entrance.

The depths of winter in Grand Teton can be daunting, with temperatures dropping to 25 degrees Fahrenheit or even lower. It might be a good idea to do this trip towards the very beginning or end of winter in November or the last half of February, to avoid the most extreme weather.

The trail to Goldbug can get icy, so hiking poles with spikes or ice cleats for boots are recommended. Still, the icy weather significantly reduces the crowds, so you will have quieter and space to yourself if you visit the hot springs at this time of the year.

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This Rare Earth

A travel resource for the adventurous and often-solo female

Spring Break Road Trips From Los Angeles

Blog , California , North America , USA / March 4, 2021 by Monica / Leave a Comment

Even if you’re not able to fly to exotic lands (or foot the bill!), the areas surrounding Los Angeles offer some of the most scenic and beautiful Spring Break road trips you could ever imagine. From pool parties to deserts to mountains, there is something that everyone can enjoy. Whether you are a SoCal native or just happen to be out west for school, here are some of the best road trip ideas from Los Angeles for your Spring Break!

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The 5 Best Los Angeles Spring Break Road Trips

Oh, the good old fashioned road trip. If you’ve been around for a while, you know that road trips are one of my favorite ways to get around the good old USA. Long stretches of scenic vistas with either good friends, good conversation, or a good podcast can truly be a transformative experience.

While I’ve personally driven across the country nine times (yes, you read that correctly!), this post will focus specifically on Los Angeles’ surrounding areas and trips that you can enjoy in just one week.

First and foremost, if this will be your first road trip (or if you just need a refresher), I highly recommend checking out my post on How To Plan a Roadtrip Alone . Even if you’re not actually going alone, this post holds ALL of the valuable info you’ll need to have a safe and enjoyable trip on the road!

So let’s get to it.

1) A One Week Road Trip Through the Mojave Desert

If you have any interest in the great outdoors, not to mention some of the most unbelievable landscapes you can imagine, than this trip is for you.

Easily my favorite of all Los Angeles Spring Break road trips, the Mojave Desert will not disappoint. For this trip, you will see three of the amazing desert parks of Southern California ; the Mojave National Preserve, Joshua Tree National Park, and Anza Borrego Desert State Park.

I would suggest planning for two days within each park, which leaves you an extra day for added stops or off-route plans. Camping is typically available in each of these parks, but some may require reservations. I have each park’s camping guidelines linked as well as a customizable map below.

Mojave National Preserve

First, drive north to the Mojave National Preserve . Depending on your exact starting point, this will take around two and a half hours.

The park covers a hefty 1.6 million acres of the desert, so you can easily spend two days exploring!

I highly recommend climbing the soft sand of the Kelso Dunes and exploring the underground tunnels in the Lava Tube. Visiting in the spring time means that the hiking weather should be pleasant, though leaving early in the morning is ideal.

The Mojave National Preserve does allow camping. Details can be accessed here . If camping is not your style, there are a number of affordable AirBnb ‘s in the area.

This large park doesn’t receive the credit it deserves, so have fun exploring! There are loads of hikes available; details can be found here .

Joshua Tree National Park

You’ve probably already heard of Joshua Tree National Park, and for good reason. This park is incredible. Sweeping views of the famous Joshua Trees stretch for miles. Giant rocks rise up out of the earth. Cholla cacti await their next victims.

You can easily spend more than two days here, so if you have time to spare, this might just be the place to do it. At the very least, begin your three hour drive from Mojave National Land Preserve early to make the most of your time.

Joshua Tree National Park encompasses both the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert, meaning that you can see two vastly different landscapes depending if you are north or south in the park. Both are well worth a visit.

The north is where most of the hiking and camping lie, as well as picnic areas and rock climbing. The south is where the cactus gardens and untamed land lie, and is one of the best stops for sunset in the park.

I could actually go on and on about Joshua Tree, since it’s one of my favorite places in the world, but – I already have. Check out my post on spending the perfect day in Joshua Tree here for my favorite hikes, sunrise spots , and photo ops.

Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Day five and six of your desert road trip can be spent at Anza Borrego, a beautiful park and an easy trip from San Diego . It will take roughly one and a half hours to reach the park entrance from Joshua Tree.

You would think that after four days in the desert, it would all start to look the same. But, Anza Borrego is another incredibly unique spot that is worth the visit.

The mountains are one of the most breathtaking elements of the park. Incredible geological formations came about after a litany of earthquakes, erosion, and floods, and it is a sight to see. The scenery found on any of the hikes will not disappoint you!

My favorite hike is known as The Slot . Hands down, you need to hike this narrow canyon, and see it for yourself.

Much of the park is inaccessible to visitors unless on a specified Jeep park tour. If financially possible, this is a great tour to take. Anza Borrego is also a designated International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the most spectacular nighttime views of the stars.

Camping is free and information can be found here . From this park, the final leg home will take just under three hours.

Last Day Tip: If you need a break from the desert, check out the nearby Borrego Springs area.

Hopefully you’ll find these days connecting with the desert as awe-inspiring as I do! If not, maybe trip #2 is for you.

2) Drive Into Nevada – Offering So Much More Than Gambling!

Probably surprising myself most of all, Nevada has become one of my favorite stops in the Southwest. Seriously. While I personally don’t enjoy gambling, I wasn’t quite prepared to fall in love with the outdoor hikes and parks like I did!

I know what I just said. Gambling is not for me. But, if you do enjoy it, or if you just want to see what the Las Vegas hype is about, don’t worry. This Los Angeles Spring Break road trip drives straight into Las Vegas, NV. And, there are plenty of odd and interesting stops along the way .

Las Vegas, Nevada

About four hours outside of Los Angeles, Sin City has enough of a reputation that I probably don’t need to describe it to you. But just in case, here we go. Yes, the bright lights and loud ringing of casino games can be found here. Yes, fancy drinks and buffets are also well-known.

But Las Vegas does host incredible stage performances. As an aerialist myself, I always appreciate the Cirque du Soleil performances offered on the Strip. Dance shows, popular singers, magicians, and anything you can imagine has been hosted here.

So yes – eat up the nightlife if you need to. But I want to tell you about two must-visit parks in Nevada.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

First, very close to the Las Vegas Strip, is Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. This is a beautiful one day stop that sits approximately 25 miles outside of Las Vegas.

Red Rock Canyon offers a stunning 13 mile drive that is worth the visit even if you don’t get out to do any hikes. But – how on brand – I completely suggest you do get out and explore. All relevant park information can be found here .

Valley of Fire State Park

One hour east of the Las Vegas area, Valley of Fire State Park was basically the pinnacle of my USA travels in 2020. It quickly earned the title of the Best State Park of the Year for me, and you should definitely go and see why!

Though Valley of Fire can be easily accessed in a simple day trip, I’d recommend spending at least two days here. Simply put, there are incredible trails and unbelievable rock formations, some dating back to the time of the dinosaurs, found around every corner. You simply can’t see it all in just one day.

Though the hikes are short, the views are so incredible that I found myself spending a lot of extra time on the trails. Pictured below, the Fire Wave Trail was probably my favorite.

Out of all of the Los Angeles Spring Break road trips listed so far, if you are looking for a nice balance of night life and nature, Nevada might be your best option yet.

Seven Magic Mountains Art Installation

On the five hour trek back to Los Angeles, be sure to make a pit stop 20 minutes south of Vegas at the Seven Magic Mountains art installation. This is a great place to stretch your legs before crossing into California. You might as well get some great photos of this impressive artwork while you’re here!

Build by Ugo Rondinone, these towering rocks are a stunning contrast to the surrounding desert. For my detailed breakdown on parking, hours, climate, and concept, click here . It’s a cool artistic roadside stop that you’ve likely seen imagery of in Instagram!

3) Drive South of the Border into Mexican Wine Country.

Anyone living in Southern California is probably no stranger to the quick drive across the border from San Diego to Tijuana. And, as long as you’re prepared, crossing the Mexican border can be easy and fun!

While I am a huge fan of the Baja Peninsula in general, there is a lesser known area called Valle de Guadalupe that is absolutely perfect to visit in the spring time! ??(Shout out to my friend Cecilia, my road trip pal for this one!).

Only three and a half hours south of Los Angeles, this is undoubtedly one of Baja’s hidden gems. A beautiful wine country tucked in between deserts and mountains, offering gorgeous vistas, amazing food, and, of course, wine.

There are over 100 wineries in this increasingly popular region, located roughly 12 miles north of Ensenada. The wineries range from extremely modern and boutique to rustic and homey. Many of them offer world-class lunch and dinner options as well as an impressive array of wines.

This is an area that you can easily tailor to your specific budget, keeping costs to a minimum or going the more extravagant route.

With gorgeous vineyards, beautiful desert scenery, amazing food, impressive wines…. what’s not to like?

You might also be interested in: A Baja Sur Road Trip

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4) Arizona at it’s Best

Ahh, incredible Arizona… I can’t say enough about how beautiful your landscapes are. From barren desert to giant red rocks to Saguaro-dotted mountainsides… Arizona is seriously amazing.

I used to live in Arizona, so I easily have an entire blog’s worth of Arizona favorite spots. But for your Spring Break road trip from Los Angeles, here is an itinerary that is both interesting and doable in a week.

First stop, Phoenix. Phoenix is roughly a six hour drive from Los Angeles, depending on your exact starting point. But, if you are road tripping with friends , it will go by pretty quickly.

Phoenix and the immediate surroundings offer a lot to see in a much more compact area than Los Angeles. It all depends on what your interests are, but here are some very cool spots to visit.

On the first Friday of every month, Downtown Phoenix hosts an Art Walk through more than 70 independent art galleries. It runs from 6 to 10 p.m. and I have found some really interesting pieces here. You’ll also pass by restaurants and food trucks, so this is a fun activity before or after dinner.

If you’re new to the desert, then definitely visit the Desert Botanical Gardens near Tempe. Full disclosure, this is coming from someone who loves the Southwest, but it’s an incredible place to walk through. Lots of cacti, art exhibitions, and photo ops.

I get it – you’re on Spring Break. Maybe you’re not in the mood for cacti and art. In that case, head to Mill Road in Tempe. This is right near Arizona State University and has all of the coolest college bars.

Feel free to split your days to whatever fits your personality best, but I would recommend:

• For those in the mood to party: prioritize the Phoenix and the surrounding areas and spend less time in Sedona and Flagstaff.
• For those in the mood to hike and explore nature: prioritize Phoenix, Sedona and Flagstaff equally.

Now on to Sedona, which is a short two hours north of Phoenix. Well, if you drive straight, that is.

I highly recommend leaving extra time to explore some of the offbeat and interesting things to see between Phoenix and Sedona . Click that link to be taken to a post that describes these spots in detail; everything from a natural stone bridge to ancient cliff dwellings to a before-it’s’-time eco village to the mining ghost town of Jerome.

Once you reach Sedona itself, the tall and monumental rock formations will blow your mind. Reminiscent of Utah, these are certainly worth exploring! Hiking in Red Rock State Park would be a good way to stretch your legs and be inspired.

Besides the red rocky buttes, Sedona also offers a fun arts community, New Age shops, and lots of spas. The climate will be a pleasant change, becoming thick with pine forests instead of cacti. This is a great place to rest your head for at least a night and relax.

And finally, on to our last stop – Flagstaff. Arizona’s tallest mountain, Humphreys Peak, lives here. Hiking and biking are popular in the Flagstaff mountains, and it is easy to see why. You will be treated to more gorgeous scenery in the ponderosa pine forests of Arizona.

Astronomy and camping are popular here, due to the dark skies and bright stars. And, inside of the Roden Crater, the popular artist James Turrell is creating an observatory.

Piture Canyon is a fun place to discover petroglyphs carved by the Northern Sinaguan people, similar to those found in the Valley of Fire . And, there is also a great hike on the Moody Trail to a waterfall, so peaceful in the quiet surroundings.

Once you’ve split your week between these Arizona hot spots, it’s time for your seven hour trek back to Los Angeles, where you have surely earned a good night’s rest.

If this small taste of Arizona isn’t enough, consider checking out my 12 Day California and Arizona road trip .

5) Head to Palm Springs for a Week of Pools and Parties

Palm Springs is the quintessential Spring Break Destination. This is absolutely the most popular of my suggested Los Angeles Spring Break road trip ideas… and with good reason!

Under a two hour drive from Los Angeles, Palm Springs is easy to reach. Not to mention, everything you’d need for a week of either relaxation or partying is at hand.

The hotels and resorts are no stranger to the Spring Break crowds – many are known to host large pool parties, hiring DJs and catering to the twenty-something crowd. Picture fancy cocktails, pool floats, and loud music, all with a stunning desert backdrop.

Springtime is actually the ideal time for visitors. The triple digit desert temperatures haven’t yet begun and the beautiful sunny days are still on the cooler side.

For anyone looking to experience a bit of Palm Springs culture, there are plenty of attractions nearby. Consider visiting the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, offering bird’s eye views of the entire area, or the Botanical Garden, or even the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a surprising collection.

I have an in depth post all about Palm Springs and the many attractions. Palm Springs is also a gateway to Joshua Tree National Park , so if you are not interested in the entire desert road trip above but still want to check out this amazing park, you can.

So let me know in the comments below – which one of these Spring Break road trips from Los Angeles would you take?

• Cabo San Lucas vs San Jose del Cabo Travel: Which Is Better?
• Cancun vs Cabo: Which is Better, Los Cabos or Cancun?
• 10 Tips for Visiting Joshua Tree National Park
• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting El Matador Beach, Malibu
• The Perfect Day Trip to Malibu: A One Day Itinerary [2024]

About Monica

Monica has been a solo female world traveler for over 15 years. She is an expert on outdoor adventures, solo female travel, and off the beaten path destinations. She is the founder of This Rare Earth and is a firm believer that the world is not as scary as the media might have you think! Learn more about her here . Connect with her on Instagram .

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31 California Road Trip Ideas for Los Angeles Families 2024

By: Author Sarah Auerswald

Posted on Last updated: December 22, 2023

Desert Explorers, Beach Bums, Mountain Adventurers, City Culture Lovers – Los Angeles families have many passions and interests, and the great news is: California delivers the goods, no matter what your family likes to do.

Even better news: every hidden gem in our amazing state is just a car ride away!

True, California is a big state, and getting all the way to the farthest corner would take a lot of driving, but it can be done if you’re up for it. If not, there are plenty of places to explore that are just a few hours’ drive from Los Angeles.

Road Trip Inspiration for LA Families

With seemingly endless options and little ones in tow, planning the perfect escape can feel overwhelming. But where to go? How to keep everyone entertained? And how long will it take to get there?

We’ll share insider tips, hidden gems, and travel info to make your next road trip escape a blast. So gather your crew, buckle up, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!

Quick Road Trip Ideas Near Los Angeles

Sometimes you want to hit the road for an adventure, but the reality is that being in the car for too long just doesn’t work, either for your schedule or hey – you just want to get there quickly!

You’re in luck! There are terrific places to visit that are just a few hours’ drive from LA, so you could even do a Day Trip if you want. Just in case you want to stay over, we’ve listed some hotels in each spot, too.

Santa Barbara:

Distance from LA: Approximately 2 hours. Highlights: Santa Barbara offers beautiful beaches, historic sites like the Santa Barbara Mission, and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Families can also explore Lotusland, a stunning garden estate.

Related: Things to do in Santa Barbara

Family-friendly hotel ideas in santa barbara:.

• Hotel Santa Barbara
• Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
• Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
• Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

These are affiliate links to hotels we think you’ll like.

Distance from LA: Approximately 1.5-2 hours. Highlights: Ojai is a charming town known for its artsy vibe and outdoor activities. Families can explore the Libbey House, go horseback riding, or hike in Los Padres National Forest.

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in Ojai

• Ojai Valley Inn
• Blue Iguana Inn
• The Capri Hotel

Related: Things to do in Ojai with Kids

Angeles national forest:.

Distance from LA: Within an hour. Highlights: Angeles National Forest is right on the doorstep of Los Angeles and offers numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Switzer Falls Trail is a popular choice for families.

Oxnard and Ventura:

Distance from LA: Approximately 1-2 hours. Highlights: These coastal cities offer beautiful, family-friendly beaches with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. You can also explore Channel Islands National Park via boat tours from Ventura Harbor.

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in Oxnard and Ventura

• Crown Plaza Ventura Beach
• La Quinta Inn by Wyndham
• Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
• Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve:

Distance from LA: Approximately 1.5-2 hours. Highlights: In the spring, the Antelope Valley comes alive with vibrant California poppies and other wildflowers. It’s a beautiful destination for families to witness the colorful super bloom and enjoy the great outdoors.

Related: See Spring Wildflowers in SoCal

Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead

Distance from LA: Approximately 1.5-2 hours. Highlights: Lake Arrowhead is a picturesque mountain resort community. Families can enjoy boating and water activities on Lake Arrowhead in the Summer months, go hiking in the San Bernardino National Forest, and visit the Lake Arrowhead Village for shopping and dining. Big Bear is a terrific place to experience Southern California’s snow mountains each Winter, with snowboarding and sledding, or just a snow-ball fight!

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead

• Best Western Big Bear
• Holiday Inn Resort – The Lodge
• Lagonita Lodge
• Noble and Proper

Related: Things to do in Big Bear with Kids

Distance from LA: Approximately 1.5-2 hours. Highlights: Temecula is a wine country destination with family-friendly wineries offering tastings and tours. Families can also explore Old Town Temecula, go hot air ballooning, or visit the Temecula Valley Museum.

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in Temecula

• South Coast Winery Resort and Spa
• Embassy Suites
• Holiday Inn Express

Related: Fun things to do in Temecula with kids

Catalina island:.

Distance from LA: Approximately 1-2 hours by ferry. Highlights: Catalina Island is a picturesque destination with activities such as snorkeling, hiking, and zip-lining. You can explore the charming town of Avalon, take a glass-bottom boat tour, or visit the Catalina Island Museum.

OK technically this isn’t a Road Trip, but Catalina is such a cool spot and families can have such fun there that we wanted to include it.

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas on Catalina Island

• The Pavilion Hotel
• Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel
• Catalina Courtyard Suites

Related: Fun things to do on Catalina Island with Kids

Hidden gems: northern california + central coast family road trip ideas.

Heading to the Central Coast of California or up to Northern California will for sure mean spending more time in the car. These destinations are approximately 5 hours (plus) away from Los Angeles by car.

And each one of them is worth the drive! Getting to experience the many wonderful things in our state is one of the perks of being a resident, so we hope you get out there and enjoy!

These destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from coastal beauty to mountain adventures. Depending on your family’s interests and how far you’re willing to drive, you can choose the perfect destination for your next adventure.

San Francisco

Distance from LA: Approximately 6-8 hours Highlights: Honestly, there are so many highlights to visiting San Francisco, our big sister city to the North, that there’s probably an entire website devoted to it. But when we visit with kids we love to visit Golden Gate Park, ride the trolly cars, see Fisherman’s wharf, climb Coit Tower, enjoy some foggy days, drive down the super famous, zig-zaggy Lombard Street and up and down the nerve-wracking hills, and of course eat some sourdough bread. For starters!

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in San Francisco

• InterContinental San Francisco
• Westin St. Francis
• Ritz-Carlton San Francisco

Monterey Bay

Distance from LA: Approximately 6-7 hours Highlights: The whole family will find things to love in the Monterey Bay area, because you can spend time in Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel, and Santa Cruz, too. Visit the Monterey world-famous aquarium and try to time it so you can see the Bluefin Tuna being fed, or hike around the Pacific Grove coastline and you may see some of the Monarch Butterflies that migrate here, stroll the adorable streets of Carmel and have an ice cream cone, and you’ll love the perfect-sized amusement park right on the beach in Santa Cruz. Not to mention the stunning natural scenery at every turn.

Family-Friendly Hotel Ideas in the Monterey Bay Area

• Portola Hotel and Spa
• Hyatt Regency
• Chaminade Resort and Spa Santa Cruz
• Hotel Paradox

Distance from LA: Approximately 5-6 hours. Highlights: Big Sur’s stunning coastline, redwood forests, and hiking trails make it worth the journey. McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge, and Pfeiffer Beach are must-visit spots.

Distance from LA: Approximately 8-9 hours. Highlights: Mendocino is a picturesque coastal town with Victorian architecture, art galleries, and scenic coastal views. It’s a peaceful getaway where families can explore tide pools and go whale watching.

Lassen Volcanic National Park:

Distance from LA: Approximately 7-8 hours. Highlights: Located in Northern California, this park is known for its geothermal wonders, including hot springs and mud pots. Families can hike to Bumpass Hell, visit Lassen Peak, and enjoy camping in the great outdoors.

Related: Every Kid Outdoors: National Parks for 4th Graders

Lake tahoe:.

Distance from LA: Approximately 7-8 hours. Highlights: Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination offering outdoor activities like skiing in the winter and hiking, boating, and swimming in the summer. Emerald Bay State Park and the Tahoe Rim Trail are family-friendly options.

Related: Family Ski Trip in Lake Tahoe

Redwood National and State Parks:

Distance from LA: Approximately 11-12 hours by car. Highlights: Redwood National and State Parks, located on the northern coast of California, are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, the towering coast redwoods. These are some of the most magical and wonderous things you can experience as a human and we highly recommend it!

Families can explore a network of hiking trails suitable for all levels, take scenic drives, and enjoy ranger-led programs to learn about the park’s unique ecosystems. Popular trails include the Tall Trees Grove and Lady Bird Johnson Grove. Camping and picnicking facilities are also available.

Related: California Road Trip in a Lincoln MKX

Muir woods national monument:.

Distance from LA: Approximately 6-7 hours. Highlights: Muir Woods, located just north of San Francisco, is known for its majestic coastal redwoods. It’s a shorter drive from Los Angeles compared to the northernmost redwood parks. Families can take leisurely walks along well-maintained wooden boardwalks and trails, making it an accessible destination for all ages. The park provides educational opportunities to learn about these ancient giants. Be prepared to reserve parking ahead of time – see their website for details.

Related: California College Tour in a Chevy Equinox

Sequoia national forest:.

Distance from LA: Approximately 3-4 hours. Highlights: While it’s not the same as the Redwood forests, Sequoia National Forest is home to giant sequoias, which are another awe-inspiring type of tree. Families can see the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth, and enjoy hiking in the beautiful surroundings. Nearby is the Kern River, where families can enjoy whitewater river rafting.

Sacramento:

Distance from LA: Approximately 6-7 hours Highlights: Sacramento, the state capital, is rich in history. Families can visit the California State Capitol Museum, explore the Old Sacramento State Historic Park, and take a scenic riverboat cruise on the Sacramento River. The city also has several family-friendly museums, such as the Crocker Art Museum and the Sacramento Children’s Museum. Plus, within an hour’s drive you can visit the Marshall Gold Discovery State Park and Sutter’s Mill recreation to see where the California Gold Rush began, or visit Apple Hill near Placerville and pick-your-own apples (in season).

Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley:

Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 8-9 hours. Highlights: While both the Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley regions are renowned as California’s Wine Country, there are family-friendly options too. Consider visiting places like the Castello di Amorosa, a medieval-style castle winery, the Charles M. Schulz Museum, exploring Calistoga, or see California’s own Old Faithful geyser erupt.

San Diego County Road Trip Ideas

Head South to San Diego and you’ll find destinations that provide a wide range of outdoor and cultural activities for families, ensuring that there’s something to suit every interest and age group. Whether you’re looking for a beach day, a nature hike, or a cultural excursion, you can find it within a reasonable drive from Los Angeles.

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-3 hours. Highlights: San Diego offers a wide range of family-friendly activities, including visiting the San Diego Zoo, exploring Balboa Park, relaxing on beautiful beaches like La Jolla Cove, and learning about marine life at the Birch Aquarium. Nearby La Jolla is famous for its picturesque coastline, tide pools, and sea caves. Families can explore the Children’s Pool, go snorkeling at La Jolla Cove, and visit the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Balboa Park in San Diego is a cultural hub with numerous museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. Families can explore the San Diego Natural History Museum, the San Diego Museum of Art, and enjoy picnics in the park’s beautiful gardens.

Related: Guide to the San Diego Zoo

Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 2-3 hours Highlights: Carlsbad is known for its beautiful beaches and family-friendly attractions. Families can visit LEGOLAND California Resort, explore the Flower Fields (seasonal), and spend time at Carlsbad State Beach for swimming and sunbathing. The quaint village of Carlsbad also has charming shops and restaurants. Nearby Oceanside features a scenic harbor, a historic pier, and beautiful beaches. Families can visit the Oceanside Pier, take a harbor cruise, or explore the California Surf Museum. And the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is located close by.

Related: Roar and Snore at the San Diego Safari Park

Coronado Island:

Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 3-4 hours Highlights: Coronado Island boasts a beautiful beach, the historic Hotel del Coronado, and the Coronado Ferry Landing. Families can relax on the beach, rent bicycles, and explore the charming town of Coronado.

Related: Ford Flex Road Trip to Coronado Island

Road trips in the southern california desert.

These destinations offer a mix of outdoor adventures, geological exploration, and unique landscapes for families seeking new experiences within driving distance of Los Angeles. Some locations are even suitable for day trips, if you’re up for it.

Joshua Tree National Park:

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-3 hours. Highlights: Known for its unique desert landscapes, Joshua Tree offers hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and the opportunity to explore the San Andreas fault. Barker Dam Trail is a family-friendly hike where you can see ancient petroglyphs, and of course the famous Joshua trees themselves.

Related: Road Trip to the Desert in the Toyota Highlander

Salton sea:.

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-3 hours. Highlights: The Salton Sea is California’s largest lake and an eerie, otherworldly destination. You can explore abandoned buildings in the once-booming resort towns, visit the Salton Sea State Recreation Area, and witness the effects of the San Andreas fault on the landscape.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park:

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-3 hours. Highlights: This vast desert park is the perfect place for families to enjoy hiking, wildflower viewing (in the spring), and stargazing. The park also features unique geological formations, including the Borrego Badlands, which were shaped by fault activity.

Carrizo Plain National Monument:

Distance from LA: Approximately 3-4 hours. Highlights: Carrizo Plain is a remote and pristine area known for its wildflowers and sweeping grasslands. The San Andreas fault runs through the plain, and the Goodwin Education Center offers insights into its geological significance.

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park:

Distance from LA: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Highlights: Vasquez Rocks is a great day trip for families. These unique rock formations have been featured in numerous movies and TV shows. In fact, once you’ve been there, you’ll recognize it immediately! You can hike the trails and learn about the geological history of the area, including its connection to the San Andreas fault.

Devil’s Punchbowl Natural Area:

Distance from LA: Approximately 1.5-2 hours. Highlights: This geological wonder features dramatic rock formations created by the San Andreas fault. Families can hike the trails and explore the unique landscapes, including the Devil’s Chair viewpoint.

Palm Springs:

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-2.5 hours. Highlights: Palm Springs is known for its desert oasis vibe, hot springs, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Families can explore the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, or take a scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park. Or of course you can spend time poolside, since Palm Springs can get super hot in the Summers.

Related: Things to do with Kids in Palm Springs

Distance from LA: Approximately 2.5-3 hours. Highlights: Julian is a charming mountain town famous for its apple orchards and delicious apple pies. Families can go apple picking (seasonal), visit the Julian Pioneer Museum, and enjoy hiking in the nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.

Related: Go Apple Picking in SoCal

Distance from LA: Approximately 2-2.5 hours. Highlights: Idyllwild is a mountain town nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains. It’s a great destination for hiking and outdoor adventures, with numerous trails, including the Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail and the Devil’s Slide Trail. The town also has a vibrant arts scene.

Family Road Trips Can Make Family Memories

No matter where you go in California, we bet you’ll have fun! Enjoy!

Sarah Auerswald is the co-Founder and Managing Editor of MomsLA.com.

MomsLA is your source for Things to do with Kids in Los Angeles

Disclaimer:  MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third-party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.

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The Ultimate Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

Posted by Susannah Edelbaum August 17, 2021 Updated January 08, 2024

We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience and expertise, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

Los Angeles and San Francisco — California’s two primary metropolitan jewels — couldn’t be more different.

The quickest way to get from LA’s sunny sprawl to the breezy urban inclines of San Francisco is, of course, to head north on I-5 — that’s called the 5 if you live in LA. Depending on where you start, you may be able to do the whole 385-mile trip in about six hours, give or take, if you don’t hit much traffic.

Of course, what you’d gain in speed you lose out on in everything else.

The better way to road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco is to take the scenic route on Highway 1, better known as the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). At around nine hours, you can do it in a day if you must, but that would hardly be in the spirit of an easygoing sightseeing coastal drive.

Instead, consider splitting the trip into sections; if you have the time, four or five days is excellent. Even though the first stop of Santa Barbara is less than two hours out of Los Angeles’s clutches, you’ll want to give the elegant, radically different-feeling destination its due.

From there, the Big Sur region draws in just shy of six million tourists a year for a reason, while Carmel’s quaint architecture is a front for one of the state’s most luxurious beachfront communities. Along the way, you’ll also get a beach time, a dose of redwoods, and plenty of California kitsch.

This coastal Los Angeles to San Francisco California road trip covers:

• Around 450 miles
• Roughly nine hours of driving
• Four fantastic cities (in addition to LA and SF)
• One state park
• Amazing Pacific Ocean views

Related Read:   11 Breezy Oceanfront Camping Spots in California

Los Angeles to San Francisco By Section

Let’s assume you’re starting from Downtown Los Angeles. To do the itinerary below you’ll need four nights. Some of these stops include a couple must-do destinations in one day, and you’ll need to budget even more time if you’re planning to explore any of the side trips or do any hiking.

Section 1: LA to Santa Barbara

How nice — ease your way in to the trip with a mere 90-minute, 95-mile drive to Santa Barbara’s historic architecture, pretty bay beaches, and wine tasting rooms galore.

• Distance: 95 miles
• Drive time without stops: 90 minutes

Section 1 Highlight: Santa Barbara

Leave Los Angeles early to beat the traffic and give yourself a full day at your first destination. Once you arrive, get a sense of Santa Barbara’s local scenery with a stroll through Chase Palm Park and a beach walk on the adjacent sandy strand. There are a several museums in town; the 3.5 million specimens and expansive outdoor space makes the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History a good one to start with.

Come afternoon, head to Stearns Wharf to eat, drink, and shop a few local mom-and-pop shops. In the evening, keep the car parked and walk from tasting room to tasting room in the Presidio neighborhood to get a feel for the wines from Santa Barbara’s ample vineyards just inland. That, obviously, makes this a good place to spend night one of your LA to San Francisco road trip.

Related Read : 11 Best Resorts in California for Rest & Relaxation

Section 1 Side Trip: Los Padres National Forest

If you’ve got time, trade wineries and historic architecture for your hiking boots. At 1.95 million acres, Los Padres National Forest is vast but a few trails are very close to the border of downtown Santa Barbara.

Tunnel Trail to Inspiration Point is one of the easier routes: though plenty of it is uphill, the hike is only 3.5 miles round-trip. And if you’d rather extend this part of your excursion, you’ve got tons of campgrounds to choose from in the park.

Related Read: 9 Amazing Scenic Drives Near Los Angeles, California

Section 1: Where to Stay

You’ll find plenty of luxury hotels around downtown Santa Barbara and adjacent to Stearns Wharf. Set in an 1895 building, the De La Vina Inn offers both a bit of history along with a place to lay your head for the night. If you’ve done a full day of city sightseeing and would rather keep making tracks and then camp, you can set up at El Capitan State Beach , about 23 miles farther along the overall route.

Traveling in your own accommodation? There’s an RV park in Santa Barbara, and plenty of great camping options . There are also some really nice glamping spots in this area.

Section 2: Santa Barbara to Big Sur

Get up early, pack some snacks, and get ready to drive. Around three hours and 170-200 miles up the coast (depending on how far you go), you’ll find yourself in what feels like another planet: Big Sur .

Just keep in mind that this well-preserved wilderness is something of a victim of its own success when it comes to tourism. It sees heavy traffic even mid-week, and you’ll probably see people climbing over rocks and accessing terrain they shouldn’t. Be a good visitor — pick up your trash, leave the selfie sticks behind, and stay on the trails. Walking (or parking) on grass can damage the ability of plants to grow and lead to massive issues like erosion and habitat destruction. As always, leave no trace .

You’re likely aware that this part of California has been besieged by increasingly frequent fires as well as occasional flooding. Be sure to check the environmental situation before you visit, especially at state parks as trail and road closures are possible.

• Distance: 170 miles (give or take)
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours

Related read : 6 Stunning National Parks near Los Angeles, California

Section 2 Highlight: Literally All of Highway 1 in Big Sur

There’s so much to see along Highway 1 through Big Sur that the questions is more “where shouldn’t you stop?” Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls, two of the area’s most famous sights, and just off the side of the road on Highway 1. You can check make those two stops and then speed on through, but you’d be missing what makes this section of the LA to San Francisco drive so amazing.

In Big Sur are several different parks. For an easy start, plan some time at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , home to a variety of hiking trails. The park’s Waterfall Overlook Trail is an easy half-mile walk, while Partington Cove Trail is one mile roundtrip, with a pass through a historic tunnel that eventually opens onto stunning coastal views.

Related Read:   7 Stellar Campervan Rental Companies in Southern California

Section 2: Where to Stay

Despite its rugged reputation, there are several options for a Big Sur overnight beyond camping, which you can do at the Pfeiffer Big Sur campground .

Most of the hotels in the are pricey (hey, many are on the coast), but if you can swing it, you’ll be wowed by hotels like Post Ranch Inn , Ventana Big Sur , and the (slightly) more affordable Big Sur Lodge.   And Treebones Resort is an amazing eco-friendly yurt resort.

Section 3: Big Sur to Monterey

Rather than making one of these two destinations into an optional side trip, it makes the most sense to start out early and visit both Carmel and Monterey in one hop, spending the night in whichever spot suits you best.

Carmel is about a 40-minute drive from the Pfeiffer Big Sur campground, and Monterey is another 15 minutes north.

• Distance: 30 miles (without doing 17-Mile Drive)
• Drive time without stops: 40 mins

Section 3 Highlight: Point Lobos State Park

Point Lobos is a fabulous stop for anyone traveling along the coast, but especially for beginner hikers who still want to see the amazing terrain. Most of the trails in this coastal reserve are entirely flat, save for a few beaches you can scramble down to to soak up the sun for a few minutes.

Within Point Lobos are several miles of coastal paths, a whaling museum, a nature trail, and more than a few places where you’ll want to whip out the camera. Parking can be challenging, so try to get there early. There’s also a $10 parking fee, and no dogs are allowed in the park.

Section 3 Highlight: Carmel-by-the-Sea

Keep cruising along Highway 1 to Carmel. It’s a downright charming town with storybook houses, cobblestone streets, and a total “fancy hippie artist” vibe. Ocean Avenue is downtown Carmel’s main thoroughfare, where in addition to dining and shopping, you can also check out the fairytale-like architecture made famous by early 20th-century developer Hugh Comstock. More of a Frank Lloyd Wright guy? Then walk past the oceanfront Della Walker House .

Want to soak up even more of the area? Check out the history and gardens at the  Carmel Mission before taking 17-Mile Drive to Monterey.

Some fun facts about Carmel: every beach is dog friendly, high heels are illegal, and Clint Eastwood of Spaghetti Western fame is the former mayor.

Section 3 Highlight: Monterey

There’s so much to do in Monterey — and so much written online about it — that you’ll want to do your own research on area activities before deciding where to spend the precious time you have to spare on your LA to San Francisco road trip.

But some good places to start include the Old Fisherman’s Wharf (loaded with fantastic seafood restaurants and opportunities for whale watching) the the non-profit Monterey Bay Aquarium , and the sightseeing and activities along Cannery Row (yes, it’s  that Cannery Row.)

Section 3: Where to Stay

Both Monterey and Carmel are home to a number of hotels and inns, with luxury options particularly plentiful in the latter. The Forest Lodge offers eco-friendly Carmel digs and the Cypress Inn is a very dog-friendly boutique hotel once owned by Doris Day.

Rates will generally be cheaper if you drive inland a bit; hotels in Salinas can easily be half the cost of Monterey. And if you’re going inland, you might as well stop at a few wineries, see the Steinbeck Museum , and visit Pinnacles National Park ….yeah, there’s a lot to do around here.

Section 4: Monterey to San Francisco

Almost there! But first, ease your way back into city life with a stopover in Santa Cruz, known for its offbeat vibes, surf scene, and funky boardwalk. It’s just under an hour from Carmel and Monterey.

• Distance: 144 miles
• Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 50 mins

Section 4 Highlight: Santa Cruz

Don’t conflate the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (an amusement park known for its vintage rides and arcade) with the Santa Cruz Wharf , where you can shop and eat. But try to see both before taking a walk or drive along West Cliff Drive, which affords killer views of both sea and talented surfers riding the waves. Try also to stop by Pacific Avenue in downtown Santa Cruz, a walkable stretch for further drinking, dining, and sightseeing.

Prefer trees to beaches? Try heading inland for a total change of scenery at Roaring Camp Railroad . The narrow-gauge steam train is one of the most unusual way to see California’s iconic redwoods.

Section 4 Highlight: San Francisco

You made it! The last leg of your Los Angles to San Francisco road trip is San Francisco itself. Of the cities in the US, San Francisco has more to do than most. Hang out at the touristy but very cheesy Pier 39 , loaded with shops, restaurants, arcades, stores, and plenty of unique activities. See the sea lions, then head to the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory or take the fascinating boat trip to Alcatraz .

Hit up the Exploratorium , head to Golden Gate Park to work on your hacky-sack skills or stroll through the Botanical Garden , or grab a drink in funky Haight-Ashbury . Or visit Chinatown . Or hit a tiki bar. Or ride the trolley. Or go to one of the city’s biggest flea markets . There’s a lot to do within the city’s seven square miles.

Section 4 Side Trip: Half Moon Bay

If you need one more hit of salty air before heading to San Francisco, make a stop at Half Moon Bay. In addition to long sandy stretches and scenic cliffs, the small coastal city offers a sweet, walkable downtown and some great multi-use trails .

It’s also one of the best places between LA and San Francisco to see elephant seals , which can grow — wait for it — more than 15 feet long. Woah. 

Section 4: Where to Stay

There are hotels, motels, and inns around Santa Cruz, particularly near the wharf. It’s a pricey town, but you’ll find a few affordable options like the basic-but-clean Rio Sands just south of the city.  If you’re hoping to camp, head inland to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park , a scenic spot you won’t likely want to miss, whether or not you’ve brought your own tent.

There’s also a cute little KOA with basic cabins and shared bathroom facilities. Of course, in San Francisco, you’ll have only about a billion options for hotels, hostels and even camping — in the Presidio .

Explore More in California

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11 Beautiful Airbnbs in Idyllwild, California

The 11 Best Day Trips from San Francisco, California

12 Best Airbnb Rentals in Lake Arrowhead, California

The Best Time to Visit Death Valley National Park, California

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Seen in: California , Road Trips , Things to Do in California

Posted by Susannah Edelbaum

Susannah is a freelance writer based in Berlin. She grew up outside New York, went to school in Southern California, and currently gets most of her outdoors fixes on trips to Bavaria in the south of Germany. Susannah’s work has been published on many authoritative publications such as Fast Company, Modern Farmer and Vice.

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How to Plan the Perfect Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

As a California native, I’m probably a bit biased, but I think a drive up the Golden State’s coast is one of the most exciting and beautiful road trips you can take. There’s a diversity of hikes, beaches, and cool points-of-interest, and each town you pass through along the way is incredibly unique.

If you’re planning a Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip, you’ll find all of the information you need to plan your trip in the travel guide below.

Planning a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip instead? Just flip the itinerary around and off you go!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel and vacation rental links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would absolutely never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days Do You Need to Drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco?

You could pretty easily do this drive in a day. It’s a relatively straight shot up I-5 between California’s two main cities, and it’s a well trafficked route.

However, if you take that route, you’re going to be missing just about everything that makes driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco special. The coastal beauty, winding narrow road with incredible views around every bend, charming oceanfront towns, and more.

To experience those things, you’re going to need to drive along Highway 1 – the coastal route between Los Angeles and San Francisco – which is longer and slower.

We think that the absolute minimum amount of time you need is three days . With that, you’ll be able to make a few stops, but you’ll be pressed for time and won’t be able to do as much along the way.

Five or seven days gives you more time to do some good hikes, explore some of the cities along the coast (like Santa Barbara and Santa Cruz), and take it a little slower, basking in the warm California sun and enjoying this incredible stretch of coast.

If you want to spend some time in Los Angeles or San Francisco on either end of the trip, we’d recommend 10 days or more. Both cities really deserve two days each at a minimum, but we understand time is a luxury.

P.S. We have guides to spending a day in San Francisco and a day in Los Angeles , if that’s all the time you can find for those cities.

The Route for Driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco

When driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco, you have two main route options: the coastal route or the main highway through the state, I-5.

Like we mentioned above, the I-5 route is useful if you’re just looking to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible. For the majority of this drive (which takes about 6 to 7 hours without stops), you’ll find yourself on a rather unexciting section of the I-5 in the middle of California. 

The coastal route, on the other hand, is longer but far more enjoyable. This is the route that you’ll follow for the road trip outlined below. 

You’ll want to spend at least two days on this route, but can easily make it a week-long trip . The actual driving time is about 9 hours, but you’ll have plenty of great places to stop at along the way. 

This route largely takes you on Highway 1 – also known as the Pacific Coast Highway (or PCH). You’ll hop on this highway in Santa Monica, and make your way up the coast until you hit San Francisco!

One thing to note is that Highway 1 occasionally merges and runs concurrently with Highway 101 . This happens in Ventura through Gaviota, and again near Pismo Beach. It’s something to be aware of so that you aren’t confused on your trip!

Recommended Itineraries for the Drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Here, you’ll find three sample itineraries for a 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day trip. They include some of the recommended spots below so that you can make the most of your Pacific Coast Highway trip!

Consider this the short version of how to spend your time on the California coast – below this section, we have a deep dive on the best stops to make along the drive with more detail on each destination.

With 3 Days

While I’d recommend adding more time to your itinerary if you can, you’ll still be able to check out some of the most beautiful sights between L.A. and San Francisco with just three days.

Here’s how you can break down your 3-day road trip.

• Day 1 : Malibu + Santa Barbara + Stay in San Luis Obispo
• Day 2 : San Luis Obispo + Big Sur + Stay in Monterey
• Day 3 : Monterey + Santa Cruz + Pacifica + Stay in San Francisco

Day 1: Malibu + Santa Barbara + Stay in San Luis Obispo

Start with an easy hike in Malibu at Point Dume Natural Preserve, and then walk down to Westward Beach. Drive about an hour and 15 minutes to Santa Barbara. 

Stop at Lilly’s Taqueria for lunch, and walk over to Dune Coffee for a caffeine boost – this will give you a chance to stroll down the picturesque State Street in the downtown area. 

Drive inland to hike Inspiration Point Trail . 

After your hike, you’ll drive an hour and 45 minutes north to San Luis Obispo. Get dinner at Old SLO BBQ and drinks at Sidecar .

Stay downtown at Granada Hotel & Bistro .

Day 2: San Luis Obispo + Big Sur + Stay in Monterey

Start your day with coffee and pastries from Scout Coffee , or grab a bigger breakfast at Seeds . Drive over to the Bishop Peak Trail trailhead (about 10 minutes), and hike up to the peak. 

Get back in the car, and head over to Cambria for lunch at The Hidden Kitchen . Leisurely drive through Big Sur, stopping by McWay Falls (about an hour and 25 minutes from Cambria), Pfeiffer Beach , and Bixby Creek Bridge. 

After the bridge, drive into Monterey (30 minutes north), and grab dinner at Old Fisherman’s Grotto .

Stay at the charming Green Gables Inn .

Day 3: Monterey + Santa Cruz + Pacifica + Stay in San Francisco

Spend the morning at Monterey Bay Aquarium . Walk up to Lovers Point before hitting the road and making your way to Santa Cruz (about an hour drive). 

In town, grab lunch at Lúpulo Craft Beer House or Mozaic , and then drive about half an hour up the coast to do an easy hike at the Marsh Trail in Big Basin Redwood State Park . 

Drive about an hour north to Pacifica, and do the Mori Point Loop Trail . Once you’re done, head into San Francisco!

Drop your rental car off, head into the city, and stay at the CitizenM San Francisco .

With 5 Days

Adding just two days to your itinerary will give you the chance to see a lot more of the California coast. This is what a 5-day itinerary will look like.

• Day 1 : Malibu + Stay in Santa Barbara
• Day 2 : San Luis Obispo + Morro Bay + Stay in Cambria
• Day 3 : Big Sur + Point Lobos State Natural Reserve + Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Day 4 : Monterey + Stay in Santa Cruz
• Day 5 : Half Moon Bay + Pacifica + Stay in San Francisco

Day 1: Malibu + Stay in Santa Barbara

Visit Malibu Lagoon State Beach , and then do an easy hike in Malibu at Point Dume Natural Preserve.

Drive an hour and 15 minutes to Santa Barbara, and grab lunch at Lilly’s Taqueria or La Super-Rica Taqueria . Drive 15 minutes inland to hike Inspiration Point Trail , and then head back to the coast to relax by the water at West Beach.

Enjoy a glass of wine in The Funk Zone before grabbing dinner at Loquita .

Stay for the night at Palihouse Santa Barbara . 

Day 2: San Luis Obispo + Morro Bay + Stay in Cambria

Start the day with coffee at Dune Coffee before driving about an hour and 45 minutes to San Luis Obispo.

In SLO, go for a hike at Bishop Peak Trail before heading downtown for lunch at Old SLO BBQ .

Drive about 35 minutes over to Montaña de Oro State Park and hike the Bluff Trail (you can easily cut it down if this is too much hiking in a day).

Drive another 30 minutes to Morro Rock Beach , and then grab a casual seafood dinner at Giovanni’s Fish Market .

Head up to Cambria (about 25 minutes), and stay at White Water for the evening, which is right on the ocean.

Day 3: Big Sur + Point Lobos State Natural Reserve + Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Get breakfast in Cambria at The Hidden Kitchen or Lily’s Coffee House .

Drive about an hour and a half into Big Sur, and make your way to McWay Falls . Grab lunch at Big Sur Deli , and then head over to Pfeiffer Beach .

Stop by Bixby Creek Bridge on your way out of Big Sur, and then visit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve to do (at least part of) the loop trail .

You’ll end in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Get dinner at La Bicyclette , and stay at the Candle Light Inn .

Day 4: Monterey + Stay in Santa Cruz

Spend the morning doing the 17-Mile Drive , and then head into Monterey for lunch at Old Fisherman’s Grotto or Randy’s Sandwich Shop .

Check out the excellent Monterey Bay Aquarium , and drive an hour to Santa Cruz.

Spend some time exploring the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk before making your way to Natural Bridges State Beach .

For dinner, check out Mozaic or Laili , and then stay at Ocean Pacific Lodge.

Day 5: Half Moon Bay + Pacifica + Stay in San Francisco

Grab coffee and a quick bite at Cat & Cloud before driving 30 minutes north to hike the short Marsh Trail in Big Basin Redwood State Park .

Drive 10 minutes to Pigeon Point Lighthouse , and then another 25 minutes to Redondo Beach .

Stop for lunch at Half Moon Bay Brewing Co ., before making your way to Pacifica (about 15 minutes) to do two hikes before heading into San Francisco: Pedro Point Headlands Trail and Mori Point Loop Trail . 

With 7 Days

With a 7-day road trip, you’ll be able to add Channel Islands and San Simeon to the itinerary, and dedicate more time to many of the destinations, particularly in the southern half of the trip. Here’s a look at what a week-long journey will look like.

• Day 1 : Malibu + Stay in Ventura
• Day 2 : Channel Islands + Stay in Santa Barbara
• Day 3 : Santa Barbara + Stay in San Luis Obispo
• Day 4 : Morro Bay + San Simeon + Stay in Cambria
• Day 5 : Big Sur + Point Lobos State Natural Reserve + Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Day 6 : Monterey + Stay in Santa Cruz
• Day 7 : Half Moon Bay + Pacifica + Stay in San Francisco

Day 1: Malibu + Stay in Ventura

Hike at Los Leones Trail , and then drive to Broad Street Oyster for lunch. Go right across the street to Malibu Lagoon State Beach before driving up to do the easy hike at Point Dume .

Hang out at Zuma Beach, and then drive about an hour to Ventura. Grab dinner at Lure Fish House , and stay at the Pierpont Inn .

Day 2: Channel Islands + Stay in Santa Barbara

Head over to Ventura Harbor to catch an Island Packers Cruise to Santa Cruz Island, and then do an Adventure Sea Cave Kayak tour (or another tour) with Santa Barbara Adventure Company (note: this should all be booked in advance!).

Once you’re back in Ventura, drive 35 minutes up to Santa Barbara. Grab dinner at Loquita , and stay at Palihouse Santa Barbara . 

Day 3: Santa Barbara + Stay in San Luis Obispo

Start the day with coffee from Dune Coffee , and then drive over to Inspiration Point Trail for a hike.

Head back into town for post-hike tacos at Lilly’s Taqueria or La Super-Rica Taqueria before making your way to San Luis Obispo (about an hour and 45 minutes).

Here, you’ll do another hike at Bishop Peak Trail .

Get dinner at Old SLO BBQ , drinks at Sidecar , and stay downtown at Granada Hotel & Bistro .

Day 4: Morro Bay + San Simeon + Stay in Cambria

Grab coffee and a small bite to eat at Scout Coffee , or have a bigger breakfast at Seeds . Drive to Montaña de Oro State Park (35 minutes) and go for a hike on the Bluff Trail .

Head another 30 minutes over to Morro Bay, where you can get lunch at Giovanni’s Fish Market . Stop by Morro Rock Beach before driving 40 minutes to the Elephant Seal Viewing Point in San Simeon.

Stop at Piedras Blancas Light Station , and then backtrack a bit to Cambria to grab dinner (try Robin’s Restaurant ) and stay the night at White Water .

For Days 5, 6, and 7 : Follow days 3, 4, and 5 from the 5-day itinerary above!

The 12 Best Stops to Make on a Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the major stops to make on your drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco. The sections below go over the highlights to check out in each area. 

Planning to spend some time in Los Angeles before your road trip? Here are some L.A. travel guides to help you plan your time.

• Exactly How to Spend One Day in Los Angeles
• A Weekend in L.A.: A Perfect 2 Day Los Angeles Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A Complete Guide

Drive Time from Santa Monica to Malibu: 35 minutes / 18 miles

To kick off your road trip, you’ll start in the beautiful coastal town of Malibu. Malibu is home to a variety of state parks and natural areas, with amazing hikes and some of the best beaches in Southern California.

Here are a few of the key spots to check out:

Los Leones Trail : This trail is technically in Pacific Palisades, which is just south of Malibu. The 4.4-mile moderate out-and-back trail takes you up the mountain to get sweeping views of the coast.

Malibu Lagoon State Beach : This state beach is famous for being one of the birthplaces of modern-day surf culture. Just north of the beach, there’s a salt marsh that you can explore, and on the opposite side of the beach you’ll see the Malibu Pier. There’s an easy 2-mile path that you can follow to explore the lagoon, beach, and pier. Parking at one of the lots will cost $3.00 per hour.

Point Dume Natural Preserve : This gorgeous reserve sits on top of an oceanside bluff, and offers beautiful views of the coast. An easy 1.4-mile trail goes around the small preserve, and will guide you to some amazing overlooks. You can also follow it down to Westward Beach. There’s a limited number of street parking spots on top of the bluffs, but you can also park at the beach lot .

Zuma Beach : Just a couple miles north is Zuma Beach, one of Malibu’s largest and most famous beaches. This sprawling beach is a great spot to hang out, jump in the water, or catch the sunset. The lot costs $0.25 per 10 minutes, with a max charge of 90 minutes.

Channel Islands National Park

Drive Time from Malibu to Ventura: 50 minutes / 40 miles

The remote location of Channel Islands (which is located off the coast of Ventura) makes it one of the least visited national parks in California, but this means it’s that much more special for those who decide to visit! This national park has five islands where you can hike, snorkel, kayak, and explore sea caves. 

Keep in mind that, if you do decide to visit the Channel Islands, it will take up a full day of your road trip.

A one-way boat ride to the most popular island takes an hour, and you’ll also want ample time to explore. Another very important note is that you need to book tours and boat rides in advance.

We’ll go over the specifics on how to get to Channel Islands below, but first, here are some of the things you can do:

Santa Cruz Island Kayaking and Snorkeling Tours : Santa Barbara Adventure Company offers guided kayaking and snorkeling tours around Santa Cruz Island, which is the biggest and most visited island in this national park. You can choose to either kayak or snorkel, or pick a tour package that does both. This is the best way to explore the coast, see some marine life, and venture into the iconic sea caves.

Potato Harbor Trail : This easy Santa Cruz Island trail is 4.9 miles long and has a 603-foot elevation gain. It brings you along the coastal bluffs, and also explores some of the scenery further inland. It’s accessible via the Scorpion Anchorage harbor.  

Pelican Bay Trail : This trail is another popular Santa Cruz Island option that’s accessible via Prisoners Harbor. The moderate 4.0-mile hike (which has an elevation gain of 820 feet) takes you on an out-and-back trail that goes along the gorgeous coast.

Getting There : You can get to any of the five islands via Island Packers Cruises . They have daily trips to Santa Cruz Island (with boats going to both of the marinas mentioned above), and also have regular trips to the other islands. These do sell out, so you’ll want to book your ride in advance online. The adult fare for a one-way ticket is currently $31.50. Transportation is not available on the island, so you’ll be exploring by foot or by kayak once you arrive!

Santa Barbara

Drive Time from Ventura to Santa Barbara: 45 minutes / 25 miles

Santa Barbara is a vibrant coastal city that offers just about everything you could want: picturesque beaches, a variety of hikes, and great bars and restaurants.

We have an entire guide dedicated to helping you plan an amazing day in Santa Barbara (or a weekend in Santa Barbara , if you’re lucky enough to have more time).

Here are some of the best spots to eat, drink, and explore.

Wine in The Funk Zone : The Funk Zone is the city’s arts and culture district, and is home to excellent tasting rooms that feature wines produced at Santa Barbara County Vineyards. A few spots to check out are Santa Barbara Wine Collective , Pali Wine Co. , and The Valley Project . You can also take a look at the Urban Wine Trail for more options in the greater Santa Barbara area!

Tacos at Lilly’s Taqueria or La Super-Rica Taqueria : Santa Barbara has some amazing Mexican food, so you won’t want to miss out as you’re passing through. Fun fact about La Super-Rica Taqueria: it was one of Julia Child’s favorites!

Coffee at Dune Coffee or Dart Coffee Co. : If you’re in need of a caffeine boost, you’ll want to stop at one of these coffee shops. There are two Dune locations in the Downtown Santa Barbara area, and Dart (which is located in The Funk Zone) has a beautiful garden space. 

Inspiration Point Trail : This gorgeous hillside out-and-back trail leads you to an outlook where you’ll get gorgeous views of the coast and Downtown Santa Barbara. This moderate hike is 3.4 miles long, and has a 935-foot elevation gain.

Rattlesnake Canyon Trail : If you’re looking for a bit more of a workout, this is another great option in the hills that offers beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. The 4.4-mile out-and-back trail has an elevation gain of 1,604 feet. 

Leadbetter Beach : If you want to spend some time at the beach, consider Leadbetter. This spacious, palm-tree lined beach is a popular spot for surfers and paddle boarders. 

San Luis Obispo

Drive Time from Santa Barabra to San Luis Obispo: 1 hour 40 minutes / 95 miles

The town of San Luis Obispo – located on the central coast – is incredibly charming and lively, and the vast natural area surrounding SLO can’t be missed. There’s no shortage of great places to eat, drink, and hike, but here are a few recommendations: 

Food at Old SLO BBQ : While you’re in town, stop at this spot for some mouth-watering BBQ. There are two locations in SLO, but head to the one downtown on Higuera Street. 

Drinks at Sidecar : Just up the street from Old SLO BBQ, this is the place to be if you’re looking for an expertly made craft cocktail. This bar and restaurant also has a small dinner menu with some delicious comfort food dishes. 

Coffee at Scout Coffee : If you want a locally roasted cup of coffee or a freshly baked pastry, head to the downtown Scout Coffee location on Garden Street. 

Bishop Peak Trail : Bishop Peak is one of the must-visit spots in SLO, as it offers stunning panoramic views of the area. Hike up to the peak via this moderate 3.4-mile out-and-back trail, which has a 1,130-foot elevation gain.

Reservoir Canyon Loop Trail : On the opposite side of town is this moderate 5.4-mile loop trail, which has a 1,400-foot elevation gain. During the rainy season, you may spot a small waterfall, and you’ll also get lovely views of the town from up above. 

Drive Time from SLO to Morro Bay: 20 minutes / 13 miles

Head 20 minutes up the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) and you’ll find yourself in Morro Bay, an idyllic seaside town that is often referred to as the Gibraltar of the Pacific.

This quiet coastal community has miles of beaches to explore, and it’s also a great place to spot marine life! Here are a few places you can’t miss as you’re passing through:

Morro Rock : Morro Bay is most well-known for this massive 576 foot rock formation, which is right on the beach. This historic landmark was formed approximately 23 million years ago from a volcanic plug. Check out the giant rock, and then go for a stroll down Morro Rock Beach.

Otters by the Marina : You won’t want to leave Morro Bay without seeing some otters! The Morro Bay T Pier (and the walkway near the pier) is a great place to spot them. 

Montaña de Oro State Park : This coastal state park is technically just south of Morro Bay in Los Osos. It’s a stunning spot to get in some hiking on top of the oceanside bluffs and enjoy the view. One of the best trails in the park is the easy 4.1-mile Bluff Trail . Here are a few pictures from that trail.

Drive Time from Morro Bay to San Simeon: 30 minutes / 30 miles

As you continue north on your L.A. to San Francisco road trip, you’ll pass through San Simeon, a small coastal village that’s home to the world-famous Hearst Castle . The historic museum is closed due to road renovations, but is expected to reopen sometime in 2022. If it’s open when you visit, you can book tour reservations in advance online. 

Before getting to San Simeon, you’ll pass by the small town of Cambria . Stop by The Hidden Kitchen for breakfast or lunch – they have a variety of delicious sweet and savory blue corn waffle dishes!

While continuing to drive up the coast, you’ll want to make a quick stop at the Elephant Seal Viewing Point , where the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery (the only elephant seal rookery in the world) is located. Here, you’ll have a chance to see the largest seals in the northern hemisphere (bonus: it’s free!).

Just about two miles up the PCH, you’ll pass by Piedras Blancas Light Station , which was built in the 1870s. You can book a self-guided tour of the still-operational lighthouse online. Advanced reservations are required, and a tour currently costs $10. Hours vary from season to season, so check the website for the most current opening information. 

Drive Time from San Simeon to Big Sur (Pfeiffer Beach) : 1 hour 30 minutes / 65 miles

Big Sur is one of the spots you absolutely cannot miss during this road trip. This rocky coastal region (which spans over 70 miles) includes multiple state parks and reserves, and is also partially managed by Los Padres National Forest. These are the top sights that you won’t want to miss:

McWay Falls : McWay Falls is located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , and is one of Big Sur’s most famous (and most photographed) sights. You’ll park at the lot on the opposite side of the highway (don’t forget to buy a $10 day use pass – there’s self-registration instructions at the lot), and then follow the 0.6-mile walking path to get a view of the falls. 

Partington Cove Trail : If you want to get in a bit of hiking while in Big Sur, check out this 1.1-mile and 347-foot elevation trail, which is also part of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The out-and-back trail splits off into two parts. The northern section leads you to a small, rocky beach, and the southern section takes you through a tunnel from the 1880s, and eventually leads you to Partington Cove. 

Pfeiffer Beach : Pfeiffer Beach – Big Sur’s most popular beach – is known for its purple sand and massive, picturesque rock formations. It’s managed by Los Padres National Forest, so you will need to pay a separate $12 day use fee. 

Bixby Bridge : This concrete bridge (which was built in the 1930s) is up there with McWay Falls as one of Big Sur’s most photographed locations. You’ll get the best view of the bridge from Castle Rock Viewpoint .

PS: We have an entire, detailed guide to exploring Big Sur . Make sure to read that for plenty more details!

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Drive Time from Big Sur (Pfeiffer Beach) to Point Lobos: 30 minutes / 22 miles

As you continue north and make your way out of Big Sur, you’ll hit Point Lobos State Natural Reserve .

This incredibly scenic tree-covered reserve is located right on the water, and you’ll get plenty of amazing views of the rocky coast. You can also expect to see plenty of marine animals and unique birds!

There is a full 6.7-mile loop trail that goes around the entire reserve, and it’s absolutely worth doing the entire loop to get the full experience. You can park at one of the lots for $10, or park along the PCH for free and walk into the reserve.  

Drive Time from Point Lobos to Monterey: 15 minutes / 7 miles

Monterey is a charming coastal city located just about 7 miles up Highway 1 from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. There’s no shortage of things to do in Monterey, but here are a few of the sights and activities you can’t miss while passing through:

17-Mile Drive : This stunning drive is located just south of Monterey in Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach. The loop takes you along the rocky coast and through densely forested areas, and there are plenty of places to park and take in the view. This drive is located in a gated neighborhood, and you’ll need to pay a fee ( currently $11.25 per car ) at the gate. You can enter the drive at the Highway 1 Gate , and exit at the Samuel F.B. Morse Gate and head into Monterey. 

Monterey Bay Aquarium : This oceanfront Monterey Bay Aquarium is considered one of the absolute best in the US, and is definitely worth a visit. There are over 200 exhibits to explore, including the sea otter exhibit and giant kelp forest. Adult tickets are currently $49.95.

Coastal Walk to Lovers Point : Just over a mile up the coast from the aquarium is Lovers Point, a gorgeous rocky coastal spot. Follow the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail to get there from the aquarium, and enjoy the beautiful ocean views on your way up (keep an eye out for sea lions!).  

Coffee at Captain + Stoker : If you need a caffeine boost, one of the best places to get a really good cup of coffee is Captain + Stoker. This coffee shop also offers a variety of teas, as well as some smaller bites to eat.

Dessert at Revival Ice Cream : For those with a sweet tooth, you can get amazing, high-quality handcrafted ice cream at Revival.

Drive Time from Monterey to Santa Cruz: 1 hour / 45 miles

Next up on your road trip is Santa Cruz, which is just about 40 miles up the coast from Monterey. This laid-back oceanside city has gorgeous beaches and some amazing hikes in and around town. Here are some recommendations on places to check out during your visit:

Natural Bridges State Beach : This beautiful beach has cool tide pools to explore, as well as plenty of opportunities to see marine wildlife and birds. Keep in mind that you will need to pay $10 to park. 

West Cliff Drive Trail : This easy out-and-back walking path is 4 miles long, and takes you along the beautiful ocean cliffs. Natural Bridges State Beach is located on the opposite end, so you can combine this walk with a visit to the beach. 

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk : For a bit of child-like fun, head over to the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. It’s the oldest amusement park in the state, dating back to 1907. You’ll find plenty of attractions, but even if you don’t plan on hopping on any rides, you can enjoy a stroll through this colorful beachside amusement park. Fun fact: two of the rides (The Giant Dipper and Looff Carousel) are National Historic Landmarks.

Big Basin Redwood State Park : This state park – which is California’s oldest – is located north of Santa Cruz. Unfortunately, much of the park is closed due to wildfire damage – check the park website for the most up-to-date info. One easy and beautiful hike that is currently open is the Marsh Trail , an out-and-back trail that is just under a mile long. While it’s currently closed, if it reopens when you visit, another great hike is the Skyline to the Sea Trail Short Loop . This easy hike is 2.9-miles long, and has a 298-foot elevation gain.

Año Nuevo State Park : Just up the road on the coastal side of the highway is Año Nuevo State Park, which may be best known for being one of the biggest elephant seal breeding colonies in the world. A scenic coastal hike to check out is the easy Año Nuevo Point Trail , which is 4.3-miles long. 

Half Moon Bay

Drive Time from Santa Cruz to Half Moon Bay: 60 minutes / 50 miles

Head 30 miles up the coast, and you’ll find yourself in the peaceful beachside town of Half Moon Bay. Here are some places to check out in the area:

Pigeon Point Lighthouse : Before you get to Half Moon Bay, you’ll pass by this lighthouse, which has been in operation since 1872. You can’t go into the lighthouse, but you can follow the dirt path and check out the exterior. 

Redondo Beach : This beautiful beach has scenic eroded bluffs, and is a great spot for tidepooling. You can park here , and then follow one of the paths down to the beach. There are some easier descents north of the parking lot. Alternatively, if you’re up for a beach walk, you can park at Poplar Beach , and walk south to Redondo Beach.  

Half Moon Bay Brewing Co. : This casual brewpub is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and has a great outdoor seating space with views of the bay. 

Drive Time from Half Moon Bay to Pacifica: 20 minutes / 14 miles

The final must-see town you’ll pass through on your Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip is Pacifica! It’s the perfect place to get in some peaceful hiking and beach time before heading into the city. Here are some spots to check out:

Mori Point Loop Trail : This 2.5-mile blufftop trail offers beautiful views of Pacifica’s rugged coastline. It’s rated as moderate, and has a 396-foot elevation gain. 

Pedro Point Headlands Trail : Further south at Pedro Point you’ll find a moderately rated 2.4-mile loop trail, which has a 610-foot elevation gain. It brings you out to an overlook of Pedro Point, and through the beautiful headlands. 

Devil’s Slide Trail : Just south of Pedro Point, you’ll find this paved coastal trail, which you can also bike along. This easy out-and-back trail is 3.1-miles long and has a 436-foot elevation gain, and takes you down to an old military bunker. 

Pacifica State Beach : For your final beach stop on this road trip, consider hanging out at the idyllic Pacifica State Beach, which is a popular surf spot. 

Planning to spend some time in San Francisco before you head home? Here are some San Francisco travel guides to help you plan your time.

• Exactly How to Spend One Day in San Francisco
• 3 Days in San Francisco: A Perfect San Francisco Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Francisco: The 7 Best Areas to Stay in SF
• 14 Incredible Day Trips from San Francisco
• The Best Hikes in the San Francisco Bay Area

Where to Fly In and Out for Your L.A. to San Francisco Road Trip

For this road trip, you’ll fly into Los Angeles, and then head home from San Francisco. Here’s what you need to know about the airports in these areas.

Flying into Los Angeles

You have three airport options around the L.A. area: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), and John Wayne Airport (SNA) located in Orange County. 

LAX (Los Angeles International Airport)

LAX – Los Angeles International Airport – is located on the coast near Marina Del Rey. It is by far the largest of the three (it’s the biggest on the west coast) and therefore has the most flight options. 

That said, LAX gets insanely busy, and can be a hassle to get in and out of (especially if you’ll be using a rideshare – it’s recently become a nightmare!). Keep this in mind when looking at flights.

BUR (Hollywood Burbank Airport)

An alternative option is Hollywood Burbank Airport , which is located in Burbank. 

This airport is much smaller and far less busy, so grabbing your bag and getting out of the airport is typically a pretty easy experience (and getting a rideshare is a breeze). With this in mind, I always prefer flying in and out of Burbank, but since it’s smaller and has fewer flights, this isn’t always an option. 

Another factor to note is that BUR is further from the road trip route than LAX – it’s about a 30-mile drive from the southern part of Malibu. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, especially if you’re planning on spending a day or two in Los Angeles before hitting the road – just something to keep in mind!

SNA (John Wayne)

Your third option is John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, which is approximately the same size as BUR. 

This airport is about a one and a half to two-hour drive south of LAX, so you will be adding some travel time – but it’s definitely not a bad option if you’d like to see some of the sights in Orange County! 

Besides that, the only downside to SNA is that, like BUR, you’re not going to have as many flight options.

Which is Best?

I’d recommend looking at flights heading into BUR or SNA first , since these airports are less stressful to navigate. If there aren’t any good options, you’ll be able to find a flight that works for you at LAX.

Flying out of San Francisco

Once you’ve completed your drive from L.A. to San Francisco, you’ll want to fly out of either San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK) .

San Jose International Airport (SJC) – which is about an hour south of SFO – is also an option, but only if you’re not planning on going into San Francisco.

There are two major benefits of flying out of SFO . One is that this airport is much bigger than OAK, and has far more flight options. The other benefit is that it is conveniently located closer to the city.

That said, SFO has more flight delays when compared to OAK (due to the fog), so you may have to deal with some last-minute travel hiccups when heading back home. 

Kyra is a freelance writer and a California native who has lived in the Bay Area, San Diego, and Los Angeles. She loves spending her free time hiking, taking photos, and exploring Southern California and the rest of her home state.

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Louisiana Road Trip Ideas: 12 Best Road Trips + Itinerary

Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.

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There’s no better way to see the sights of Louisiana than by car, and luckily for us, there are endless road trips in Louisiana available. Since Louisiana is a relatively small state, you can get around the entire state in a day (New Orleans to Shreveport is about a five-hour drive). The added benefit of taking a Louisiana road trip is having the freedom to stop off wherever you’d like, for however long you’d like, and do things at your own pace. If you’re ready to see the Pelican State by car, get your playlists ready, because the best road trips in Louisiana are the ultimate getaways for road warriors.

1-Day Road Trip In Louisiana

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• Route: Venice> Barataria Preserve > Woodlands Conservancy > Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge > Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge > Fontainebleau State Park
• Distance: 167 miles
• Trip Time: 3.5 hours driving time

• Route: Cypremort Point State Park> Louisiana State Arboretum > Wild Azalea Trailhead > Driskill Mountain
• Distance: 245 miles
• Trip Time: 5 hours driving time

• Route: Rip Van Winkle Gardens > Avery Island > Lake Martin > Vermilionville > Breaux Bridge > Barn Hill Animal Preserve > Bogalusa
• Distance: 288 miles
• Trip Time: 6 hours driving time

• Route: Lake Charles > Sulphur > Sabine National Wildlife Refuge > Holly Beach > Rutherford Beach
• Distance: 180 miles

• Route: Louis Armstrong Park > Bayou St. John > City Park > Lakefront > Longue Vue House and Gardens > Audubon Park > Barataria Preserve
• Distance: 42 miles
• Trip Time: 1 hour driving time

• Route: Covington > Baton Rouge > St. Martinville > Lafayette > Ville Platte > Alexandria > West Monroe > Homer
• Distance: 429 miles
• Trip Time: 8.5 hour driving time

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• Route: Doyline > Driskill Mountain > Chatham > Provencal > Ville Platte > Cypremort
• Distance: 365 miles
• Trip Time: 7 hours driving time

• Route: Bastrop > Chatham > Homer > Doyline > Zwolle > Anacoco
• Distance: 418 miles
• Trip Time: 8 hours driving time

• Route: Minden > Natchitoches > Alexandria > Lafayette > Baton Rouge > Lutcher > New Orleans
• Distance: 409 miles

• Route: Monroe > West Monroe > Natchitoches
• Distance: 120 miles
• Trip Time: 3 hours driving time

• Route: New Orleans > Baton Rouge > Atchafalaya Region
• Distance: 226 miles

• Route: Natchitoches > DeRidder > Eunice > Breaux Bridge > St. Francisville > Donaldsonville > Abita Springs
• Distance: 523 miles
• Trip Time: 10 hours driving time

Have you taken any of these road trips? What do you consider to be the best road trips in Louisiana? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to stock up on snacks, they’re the best part of the trip! This donut trail in Louisiana will give you the perfect sugar rush to drive through the Pelican State.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Road trips in louisiana.

What are the most popular landmarks to visit in Louisiana?

Some of the most popular landmarks to visit in Louisiana include:

• The French Quarter, New Orleans
• The Atchafalaya River Basin
• Avery Island and the Tabasco Factory
• The various plantation homes peppered along Great River Road

What are the most popular state parks to visit in Louisiana?

There are 21 state parks in Louisiana , and each one offers unparalleled natural beauty. Some of the most popular state parks to visit in Louisiana are:

• Chicot State Park
• Fontainebleau State Park
• North and South Toledo Bend State Parks

What are the major highways in Louisiana?

Some of the major highways in Louisiana include:

Louisiana also has several scenic byways and highways like U.S. Route 61, which is more commonly known as Great River Road.

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A Perfect San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary

California is our home, and we wouldn’t trade it for the world. Except for the sky-high cost of living. We’d like to trade that, please. But there’s a reason it’s expensive to live in California – it’s a pretty amazing place with unbeatable weather. Our recent California road trip reminded us of just how incredible this state is.

We made our way from San Francisco to Los Angeles, spending four weeks meandering through California, exploring our home state in a way that we hadn’t before. California is known worldwide for its beauty. From breathtaking beaches, to rolling hills lined with vineyards and groves of towering redwoods, coastal California has it all.

On a road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles, you’ll encounter all of those things and more. It’s a picturesque, exhilarating drive with jaw-dropping landscapes, world-class wine tasting, and more hikes than you could complete in a lifetime. The drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles along Highway 1 is a road trip that should be on everyone’s bucket list. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all of the best stops along the way, and give some of our picks for what to check out, eat, and drink in each spot. 

Note : You can absolutely reverse this itinerary for a Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip. 

Before we get to the best stops on your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip, a few logistics you’ll need to plan the perfect road trip. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you click on one and purchase something, I make a small portion of the sale at no additional cost to you. It goes without saying that I would never recommend something I wouldn’t use or do myself.

Where to Fly In and Out Of?

If you’re not already near the San Francisco area, you will want to fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK) and rent a car that you can comfortably drive down to Los Angeles. 

Plan on flying out of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) , which is going to be your best bet as far as finding flights for most cities.

There are two smaller airports, Burbank (BUR) and John Wayne (SNA), which will be less of a hassle than super busy (and majorly trafficky) LAX but may not offer as many flight options.

How Many Days to Spend Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles?

The fastest route driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles is straight down Interstate-5 (I-5), which only takes about six hours but is an incredibly boring drive and you miss out on all the best sights along the California coast.

Definitely don’t do that unless you’re in the mood for barren landscapes, lots of big trucks, and the occasional whiff of cattle ranches. We’ve done it and it’s not fun.

When we did the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles, we did it in about 10 days, with plenty of stops on the gorgeous California coast along the way. 

Our number one tip is to take it slow .

We recommend spending at least three to five days driving down the coast (sample itineraries below!) so that you can take in all of the beautiful coastal California views.

This route is only about nine hours of drive time, so you’ll be able to make plenty of stops for sightseeing, hikes, and picnics at the beach. 

The Route for Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Basically, you’re going to drive highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles. 

Follow Highway 1 from San Francisco along one of the most scenic coastlines in the world.

When you reach Santa Barbara, you’ll continue onto Highway 101 for a short stretch and then hop back on Highway 1 to drive through glitzy Malibu into Los Angeles.

Recommended Itineraries for Driving from SF to LA

Wondering exactly how to spend your time on your drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles? Here are some itinerary ideas based on our own personal experience.

Below, in the “best stops” section, we have a bit more detail on each place to help you plan your time. 

Note : We’re not counting the day you fly into San Francisco in the number of days. 

If you only have three days, here is what we’d recommend. 

Day 1: Leave San Francisco early, head to Monterey and walk around Cannery Row, stop at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve before driving through Big Sur , stop at Pfeiffer Beach and McWay Falls, and don’t miss the elephant seals at San Simeone. Spend the night right on the beach at White Water in Cambria, a sleepy coastal town.

Day 2: Grab coffee in San Luis Obispo (we like Scout Coffee A LOT) before heading out to Morro Bay and Montana de Oro . Hike along the coastal bluffs – this is one of our favorite coastal California hikes. Continue the journey south to Avila Beach (stop at the Avila Barn) and Pismo Beach . Both are worth getting out and walking around to stretch your legs. Drive through the Santa Ynez Valley, the best wine region in Southern California, and taste some wine at either Foxen Vineyard & Winery or Babcock Winery & Vineyards. Head into Santa Barbara for the evening – stay at either the Hotel Indigo or the Wayfarer , two of the best places to stay in Santa Barbara . Head to the Funk Zone for some urban wine tasting for the evening, and enjoy dinner at Loquita, a Spanish restaurant right in the heart of Santa Barbara. 

Day 3 : Grab coffee at either Dart Coffee or Dune Coffee Roasters and spend the morning exploring the coast around Santa Barbara. Finish your road trip by heading down the coast to Malibu , getting out at Zuma Beach and Point Dume, before continuing down highway 1 and hitting the western edge of Santa Monica . You’ve arrived in LA!

If you have a bit more time, you’ll be able to make a few more stops along the way.

Day 1 : Spend a full day exploring San Francisco. Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge and hike down to Baker Beach for the best view of the bridge. Check out Lombard Street, the crookedest street in the city, which has amazing views of the Bay. Browse the shops and food stalls at the Ferry Building, a collection of San Francisco’s finest artisans like Blue Bottle Coffee, Heath Ceramics, and Dandelion Chocolate. Do dinner and drinks in the Mission, which is the best neighborhood for foodies in San Francisco. Stay overnight at either Beck’s Motor Lodge or the Kabuki , two of the best places to stay in San Francisco.

Day 2: Head out of the city to the south, stopping in Pacifica and Half Moon Bay , before arriving in Santa Cruz . Walk Westcliff Drive and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and don’t miss coffee at Verve and ice cream at the Penny. Hop back on Highway 1 and head south to Monterey and Carmel , your stop for the evening. Spend the night at Hotel Abrego in Monterey, which is a solid value and will put you in a great position to tackle Big Sur early the next day.

Day 3: Today, head out early with a coffee from Captain + Stoker in Monterey in your hands, and start what we think is the best day on this trip. First, head to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and hike the short and easy trail along the coastal bluffs. Then continue on to Big Sur . The stops to make here, in order, are Bixby Bridge, Andrew Molera State Park (great place for a hike along the coast!), Pfeiffer Beach, McWay Falls, and Limekiln State Park. This should take you a full day, so spend the night in Cambria at White Water , a lovely boutique hotel that is literally across the street from the beach. 

Day 4: Continue the coastal drive down to Morro Bay , where you should stop to admire Morro Rock (and catch a glimpse of the resident sea otters) from Morro Rock Beach. Then, head to Montana de Oro State Park and hike the Bluffs Trail (there are other options below for a more strenuous hike). Head into San Luis Obispo for lunch at Old SLO BBQ Co and cider at SLO Cider Co before making the journey to Santa Barbara through the Santa Ynez Valley, stopping in Los Olivos for cider at Tin City Cider and wine tasting. Stay overnight in Santa Barbara at Hotel Indigo or the Wayfarer and explore the Funk Zone for the evening. 

Day 5 : Grab coffee at either Dart Coffee or Dune Coffee Roasters in Santa Barbara in the morning and spend the first half of the day exploring the coast around Santa Barbara. Finish your road trip by heading down the coast to Malibu , getting out at Zuma Beach and Point Dume, before continuing down highway 1 and hitting the western edge of Santa Monica . You’ve arrived in LA!

If you have a couple of extra days, I would spend them in San Francisco or LA. Two days in each would be perfect, which would make this an 8 day adventure. 

That’s a very, very high level look at what a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip looks like. Continue reading for a detailed look at the best stops to make on the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles. 

The Best Stops on a San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip

Here are our favorite stops along the Pacific Coast of California that you should make sure to add to your itinerary.

San Francisco

San Francisco is so much more than a starting point for your road trip or a place to pick up your rental car. It’s a vibrant city, full of some of the best food and drinks on the west coast. And hills. Lots of hills. 

We called San Francisco home for almost a decade, and we still love the city even though it has become a bit too expensive for our “jobs” (read: exploring the world untethered). 

If you want to spend a day or two exploring San Francisco, we have some travel guides to help you find the best spots.

We’d recommend picking up your rental car at the END of your time in San Francisco, because parking is a veritable nightmare in the city.

If you do have a car, plan on paying for parking at your hotel, or paying for at least one parking ticket over the course of your San Francisco itinerary. 

If you want to stay overnight in San Francisco, we’d recommend choosing a hotel. Most of the hotels in San Francisco are in Union Square, but it’s really not a great place to stay. We think you should stay at either Beck’s Motor Lodge or the Kabuki .

Here are some San Francisco travel guides to help you plan your time. 

• 4 Days in San Francisco: A Complete SF Itinerary (Local’s Guide)
• Where to Stay in San Francisco (and Where Not to Stay)
• Gluten Free San Francisco: A Travel Guide for Celiacs
• The Best Day Trips from San Francisco

Whether you love the beach or you’d rather explore the mountains, you’re in luck. Santa Cruz has both!

Known for its gorgeous beaches, Santa Cruz has small-town, surfer beach vibes even though it’s not that small. 

In the mountains above Santa Cruz, you’ll find some of the tallest Redwood trees in the world. You literally can’t go wrong stopping here, and you might have a hard time leaving!

Take Surfing Lessons

If it’s been your dream to learn how to surf, then Santa Cruz is the place to do it. Surf School Santa Cruz has five-star reviews on Yelp and even has private two-person surfing lessons if you have someone with you who wants to join in on the fun. 

Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Who doesn’t love a good boardwalk? The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk will not disappoint. It’s like a time warp, taking you back into the 1950’s with a wooden roller coaster, arcade games, and other rides like bumper cars. 

Take a few hours to walk around, grab some food, and maybe even play some games or go on a couple of rides.

There are rides for daredevils and little kids, so it’s enjoyable for the whole family and such a wholesome, nostalgic way to spend the day!

Walk or Bike Westcliff Drive

If you’re up for a little fresh air and exercise with stunning views of the ocean, then head over to Westcliff Drive. 

It’s a scenic three mile biking and walking path along the Pacific Ocean with amazing views of Monterey Bay.

Lighthouse Point has a grassy area to relax and play frisbee looking over Steamer Lane, where you can watch surfers on some of the best waves in the United States.

See the Redwoods at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Nature lovers, do not miss this stop. This 40-acre grove of old-growth Redwood trees dates back over 1,500 years, with the tallest tree standing 277 feet tall.

These trees are strikingly massive and totally take your breath away. Pictures just genuinely do not do this state park justice.

If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to see some wildlife, including the famous banana slug, which is the mascot for UC Santa Cruz, the university in town. 

Hike the Old Landing Cove Trail

Hop out of the car, throw on your hiking boots (or just your sneakers will do), and head to the Old Landing Cove Trail .

The trail is a 2.3-mile loop that will lead you to views of cliffs along the Pacific Ocean. We’re pretty sure there may literally be no better place to stop and take an easy hike to stretch your legs on a road trip.

Continuing down the coast, next you’ll hit Monterey. Monterey is home to beautiful, uncrowded beaches, all the seafood you could ever want, and the best places to explore the Pacific Ocean.

Well known for its marine life, including the adorable sea otter, it’s also home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. 

The Monterey Bay Aquarium

The aquatic life of the Monterey Bay can be seen up close at the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium .

With over 20,000 marine animals from sharks to jellyfish to otters, this aquarium is one of the best in the world and a must see if you’re interested in marine life.

Whale Watching

Have you ever been whale watching? It’s truly a unique experience! The best time to go whale watching depends on what you want to see.

Orcas and gray whales? December through May. If you’re more interested in seeing Humpbacks, you’ll have a better chance May to November.

Want to see the Blue Whale (the largest animal on earth)? Your best bet is July through October.

Luckily this means that no matter when you visit you can hop on a whale watching tour and have a good chance at seeing some of these giant, majestic creatures.

Get Out On the Water

A popular activity for those who are a little more adventurous and want to get out there is to rent a kayak or a paddleboard. Rent one from Monterey Bay Kayaks . Take a few hours to explore this beautiful stretch of coast from a new perspective.

Head to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a protected coastal area where you can hike and explore the wildlife of Monterey.

View the bluffs and cliffs unique to the California coast and hike the trails to check things out on foot. If you’re lucky you’ll spot some sea lions playing in the ocean below.

It’s a unique spot to see all sorts of wildlife – last time we were there we saw hundreds of giant white pelicans perched all over the trees and cliffs.

Big Sur is known for its rugged coastal cliffs and awe-inspiring views. It’s a popular spot to camp and even to just drive through because you can see so much of it from the car.

Stop for the Amazing Sights (North to South)

Bixby Bridge: While you may not know it’s name, it’s likely that you’ve seen this iconic bridge as it’s one of the most photographed bridges in California.

Andrew Molera State Park : With its undeveloped, raw beauty, this state park has trails along the coastline and a beach where you can stop to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Pfeiffer Beach: The striking rock formations here are perfect for exploring and stopping for a quick photo opportunity.

Mcway Falls : Have you ever seen a waterfall right on the beach? Featuring a 80 foot tall, year round waterfall, that switches from emptying on the beach to directly into the ocean depending on the tide.

Ragged Point: The perfect pit stop! A nature trail leads down to the Pacific Ocean and you can often see elephant seals along the beaches.

Take a Hike

• Andrew Molera State Park loop : Just off Highway 1, this trail is an 8 mile long loop featuring scenic ocean bluffs and a river crossing.
• Buzzards Roost : For a shorter hike, Buzzards Roost comes in at just 2.6 miles and features the beautiful wildflowers of California. Best to hike March to October.

Treat Yourself

If you want to take a self care day and splurge, then a spa day at Ventana Big Sur offers luxury spa services.

If you want to make this one of your stops for the night, they even have options for glamping in their 20-acre redwood canyon campground.

For a bit more of a rustic, budget friendly self care day check out Esalen Hot Springs to soak in the relaxing, healing waters. 

Morro Bay and Cayucos

This is the peak of the Central Coast of California. These small beach towns are pretty sleepy, but filled with cute local shops and nature trails. We spent a full four days in the area, and loved every second of it.

Stop in San Simeone to See the Elephant Seals

This is a quick stop that does not disappoint! Located 7 miles north of San Simeon, you’ll know you’re in the right place when you open your car door and instantly hear their calls.

It’s a popular spot to observe elephant seals as they hang out here year round. However, the best time of the year to see them is October through May.

Eat Beachside at Hidden Kitchen in Cayucos

We are obsessed with the 100% gluten-free blue corn waffles at Hidden Kitchen ! Whether you enjoy savory or sweet, there are options for all taste buds and they’re all gluten free.

Not feeling waffles? They’ve got great tacos too. Get the weirdo, a combination of peanut butter, maple syrup, banana, and BACON.

Hike Around the Base of Morro Rock

Morro Rock stands 576 feet tall above the surrounding ocean, but that’s not even the most impressive thing about it. Morro Rock is actually a volcanic plug that was estimated to have formed about around 23 million years ago.

While you can no longer climb it, you can hike around the base and if you can stick around for sunset you’ll be handsomely rewarded with a breathtaking view.

Make sure to look for sea otters in the calm water flowing from Morro Bay into the open ocean – it’s a favorite hangout for the furry little creatures! They’re Alysha’s favorite.

Explore Montana de Oro State Park

It’s best to enjoy this beautiful state park by hiking one of the many great trails.

• Bluffs Trail is a 4.1 loop trail that is rated easy and located near Los Osos. It features wildflowers and if you’re looking for a place to get in your morning run before hitting the road it’s good for a quick trail run too.
• Valencia Peak is 4.2 miles long and rated moderate. It allows you to gain elevation to look at the scenic central California coast from above. 
• Hazard Peak is a harder trail, but completely worth the climb! At 11.2 miles it’s a bit longer for those who are looking for a more rigorous hike that has an 1,800 foot elevation gain.

San Luis Obispo

Welcome to central California! Once you hit San Luis Obispo, you’re about half way through your San Francisco to Los Angeles drive. 

Drink Cider at SLO Cider Co

If you’re stopping in SLO (San Luis Obispo), you have to enjoy some cider! SLO Cider Co has dry hard cider that is made in California and is gluten free.

Another great option to try some cider is Cider Bar , San Luis Obispo’s first cider bar.

If you’d rather avoid the hard stuff (because you’re driving), head to Whalebird Kombucha for a refreshingly bubbly probiotic pick me up. 

Stop by The Creamery Marketplace

Want to stop and take a walk around to maybe grab a bite to eat or hit a bar?

Make sure you check out The Creamery Marketplace, a collection of bars, restaurants, and shops in Downtown SLO. This open-air public market features a close community of local businesses to support.

Grab Lunch at Old SLO BBQ Co (Gluten Free Options!)

With a walk up window and craft beers on tap, make sure you stop by Old SLO BBQ Co for authentic barbecue.

Many of their recipes date back nearly a century and though it’s not noted on the menu, most of their dishes are gluten free and they have gluten free prep procedures if you let them know your needs.

Make a Stop, or Three, For Coffee

• Field Day Coffee has that friendly outdoor, plant filled coffee shop vibe with amazing coffee – and they make their own almond milk.
• Scout Coffee Co has two locations in SLO where they feature pastries from their in house bakery and craft roast coffee.
• Kreuzberg California is a low key, art-adorned coffee house with good food and space to hang out and enjoy yourself. 

Head to Nearby Avila Beach

A short drive from San Luis Obsipo is Avila Beach, a smaller beach town with a few fun sights to check out.

The quick hike down to Pirate’s Cove is one of our favorite stops on this stretch of coast – just note that it is a clothing optional beach, so it’s up to you if you want to avert your eyes or join in.

Another fun stop is the Avila Barn which has the exact farm vibe you’d expect it to!

With tons of produce and baked goods you can pick up a few snacks for the road after feeding some goats and visiting with all the other farm animals.

The Santa Ynez Valley: Solvang and Los Olivos

Wine tasting.

Are you a fan of wine tasting? This is your chance and here are our top choices in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Babcock Vineyards is located in Lompoc with beautiful views and lots of recommendations from locals in the area. Rancho Sisquoc Winery is part of a 37,000 acre cattle ranch and has been crafting small quantities of quality wines for over 40 years.

Priding themselves on minimalist winemaking and sustainable wine-growing, Foxen Vineyard is a solar-powered winery located in nearby Santa Maria.

A town full of tasting rooms! Wine tasting is basically all there is to do here and we’re not complaining.

You can take your pick from the dozens of tasting rooms, but make sure you make a stop in Tin City Cider for a taste of their amazing dry cider.

Well known for its Danish style architecture, Solvang is a bit touristy, but still a fun stop on your way down the coast.

We recommend checking out The Book Loft , Solvang Spice Merchant , and stopping by to check out the Solvang windmill.

Santa Barbara

One of our favorites! There’s a reason many celebrities have homes away from the congestion of Los Angeles in Santa Barbara. It has been coined “The American Riviera” with its dramatic backdrop of mountains and expansive ocean views.

Explore the Funk Zone

Spanning the area between the ocean and Highway 101, the Funk Zone is a district of Downtown Santa Barbara that has become more popular in recent years as tasting rooms, shops, galleries, and cafes have started to pop up.

We love the Valley Project , which focuses on unique wines from the nearby wine regions and has a gorgeous map of the area behind the bar. 

Tackle the Urban Wine Trail

Within the Funk Zone is the Urban Wine Trail , which is a self-guided route of over 20 tasting rooms representing Santa Barbara County wines. 

Hike to Inspiration Point

A 3.5 mile trail that gives you a chance to experience the beauty of the mountains of Santa Barbara with amazing views of the ocean.

It’s open year round and has a decent amount of shade if you’re there during the summer and are looking for a trail with some relief from the California sun.

Hit the Beach

• Leadbetter Beach does get a bit busy in the summer, but if you’re there during the week or off season it’s not too bad. You can grab a blanket, have a picnic and watch the sailboats from the nearby Santa Barbara Harbor.
• Butterfly Beach , located in ritzy Montecito just south of Santa Barbara, is a long narrow stretch of beach that’s perfect for walking or relaxing.
• Arroyo Burro Beach is a dog friendly beach considered a hidden gem by the locals and has a few restaurants to stop in to eat at if you get hungry. 

Where to Eat & Drink in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is full of great food and drinks, including a bunch of gluten free restaurants . Here are our favorites.

• For coffee, go to Dune Coffee Roasters , the best coffee in Santa Barbara, or Dart Coffee , whose outdoor patio (“coffee garden”) is a lovely place to enjoy your morning coffee on one of the seemingly unlimited gorgeous days in Santa Barbara.
• For incredible Spanish food, head to Loquita and order the paella.
• For 100% gluten free brunch, featuring amazing french toast and about as many baked goods as you can possible imagine, Lilac Patisserie is your spot.
• Lily’s Tacos are some of the most authentic tacos I’ve had in the US, and it’s all gluten free. And super affordable – you can easily feed a couple for $15.

If boho-chic were a town it would be Ojai. If that’s your vibe, then you’ll definitely want to pass through on your San Francisco to Los Angeles drive.

Lunch at Food Harmonics

Health foodies, there are a lot of great restaurants in Ojai, but this is one you need to check out.

They focus on delicious healing, balancing food and their menu is 100% organic, gluten, sugar, soy, and GMO free.

Browse New and Used Books at Barts Books

Have you ever visited an outdoor bookstore? Barts Books is a quirky bookstore in the middle of a pretty quirky town. If you love being surrounded by books, then you definitely need to stop in because it’s a book lovers paradise.

Grab a Treat at Revel Kombucha Bar

Known for its fresh kombucha on tap, you can also get decadent acai bowls as well as probiotic matcha and coffee.

Fuel Up at Beacon Coffee

Looking for the best coffee in town? Beacon Coffee is the place to stop in if you need a quick caffeine fix and want to support a local business that works with family owned farms around the world.

As a bonus they have several gluten free pastries available for you to snack on – but be sure to come early for these treats, they sell out fast!

Ventura and the Channel Islands

Heading down the coast a bit, you’ll hit Ventura and off the coast in the Pacific Ocean nearby are the Channel Islands.

If you want to take a full day excursion to check out the Channel Islands National Park, book a cruise with Island Packers which offers rides to Santa Cruz (most popular to visit) and Anacapa islands.

The last stop of your road trip has got to be Malibu. To get there, hop back on Highway 1 (locals call this section the Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH for short) and drive the coastal route past Malibu into Santa Monica, the western edge of Los Angeles.

Soak in the Sun at Zuma Beach

Zuma is one of the biggest and most popular beaches in Los Angeles county. Plus, it’s a great place to surf if that’s your thing.

Even though there are tons of spaces, parking can get tough in the summer months so make sure you bring some shoes for walking to the beach just in case you have to park farther away.

Watch Surfers at Malibu Lagoon

Where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find Malibu lagoon. On the east side, you can visit Malibu pier and right next door you’ll find Surfrider Beach, one of the best places in California to hang out and watch the surfers.

Hike Los Liones Trail

Because of the location of this hike, it can get a little crowded on weekends, but it’s totally worth checking out!

Make sure you make it all the way to the top for the gorgeous views of the ocean and nearby Pacific Palisades.

It’s a 4.5 mile hike with 1,200 feet of elevation gain, which means it’s in the moderate category as far as difficulty goes. 

Los Angeles

Congratulations! You made it! 

Los Angeles is a pretty incredible city, and neither of us had spent much time there until we recently spent over a week exploring the city. 

Whether you want to eat and drink, relax on the beach, or hit the theme parks, there’s something for everyone in Los Angeles. 

Here are some of our Los Angeles travel guides to help you plan your time if you have a couple of extra days at the end of your road trip. 

• A Complete Los Angeles Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Los Angeles: The Best Hotels & Airbnbs
• Gluten Free Los Angeles: A Travel Guide for Celiacs

California has so many diverse landscapes, all beautiful in their own right. But if we were to recommend a road trip, San Francisco to Los Angeles would definitely be at the top of our list.

It’s one of the most beautiful drives in the world… if you take the coastal route instead of the inland route, that is.

We hope you enjoy your San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip! Did you discover a new spot that we didn’t cover? Let us know so we can add it to our list of places to explore in California!

More to Explore in California

Heading to the great state of California?  Here are some other posts you might like.

• One Day in San Francisco: How to See the Best of San Francisco in a Day
• 4 Days in San Francisco: How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Francisco: A Local’s Guide to the Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free San Francisco: A Complete Travel Guide for Celiacs
• The Best Day Trips from San Francisco: 10 Amazing San Francisco Day Trips
• 5 Days in Los Angeles: How to Plan a Perfect Los Angeles Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A Complete Guide to L.A.’s Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free Los Angeles: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
• 3 Days in San Diego: How to Plan a Perfect San Diego Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Diego: A Complete Guide to the Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free San Diego: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
• How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Northern California Road Trip: The Best of the Northern California Coast

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Hi, Is December a good month to travel the San Fran to L.A. coast trip?

December would be a great time to do this. You might get a little bit of rain, and it’s not going to be hot, but December generally has decent weather and it’ll be far less crowded than other times of year. Plus, sunrises/sunsets in December in California are amazing!

Hi, between February and March, which month is a better time to drive down the San Fran to L.A. coast trip?

Hey Tracy! Both are going to be roughly the same in terms of weather. I’d go with March, but there’s not a huge difference between those two months. Enjoy!

I have just booked flights to San Fran for next April, with my hubbie and 2 kids 13 & 11 we plan to take 8 days to drive San Fran to LA then 2 days to vegas, then fly to New York. Your blog giving me great ideas for planning our Road trip, I know we are trying to fit in alot but coming from Ireland this will be a huge adventure for adults and kids. ( I love hiking, hopefully by then I will have converted my family also)

Fun fun! That is a lot to see over a couple of weeks, but eight days between San Francisco and LA is a decent amount of time to see the highlights. Let us know if you have any specific questions as you’re planning – happy to help!

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California , Road Trip Itineraries , United States

10 amazing los angeles to lake tahoe road trip stops to make.

The journey between the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles and the calm alpine hideaway of Lake Tahoe is nothing short of stunning, and I say that as someone who has visited both places multiple times. You’ll love going on a Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip to get away from the glittering lights of the city and head to the placid reflections of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

This trip will take you through some of my favorite spots in California, including Death Valley National Park, Yosemite National Park, and more. You’ll love exploring some lesser-known spots as well, and leave this trip with a new appreciation for California’s nature. I personally think Lake Tahoe is the most beautiful lake in the state, which is why I’ve been there both in the summer and winter.

In this article, we’ll go over tips to know before your LA to Lake Tahoe drive, ten stops you’ll want to make, and give you two sample itineraries for a LA to Tahoe road trip.

Table of Contents

Tips for a Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Drive

Proper prior planning goes a long way in making a good trip great. Before heading out to Lake Tahoe, here are some finer road trip tips to ensure yours is epic and memorable.

Can You Drive From Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe in One Day?

The short answer is yes, you can drive from Los Angeles directly to Lake Tahoe in one day. Without any stops along the way, the drive can be done in anything from around eight hours up to a staggering 15 hours, depending on the route you decide to use. 

The first option for your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip is the faster Death Valley Route on US-395 . A more popular trip for most, heading to Lake Tahoe lets you get the best of the arid, harsh Mojave desert and the lush forest landscapes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. You’ll cover 440 miles with a total drive time of seven hours and 15 minutes.

On the other hand, the second option is the slower and more lengthy Sierra Nevada Route . This takes you along the I-5 and eventually onto CA-88, heading past six national forests and three national parks. You’ll cover 640 miles with a total drive time of 14 hours and 30 minutes.

Want a really long trip? You can go on this trip in the middle of a San Francisco to San Diego drive .

Are There Other Ways to Reach Lake Tahoe from Los Angeles?

Beyond driving to Lake Tahoe, there are a few alternative ways to reach this epic destination, although you’ll miss out on a lot.

You can choose to head out from LA to Lake Tahoe by these different methods:

• By plane: This is the easiest and quickest way to reach Lake Tahoe. It’s a short 90-minute flight from Los Angeles International (LAX) to Reno-Tahoe International (RNO). You’ll still need to drive for about an hour from RNO to reach the lake.
• By bus: By far, the cheapest way to reach Lake Tahoe is by grabbing a seat on the Greyhound bus to Reno. This option is quite long as you’ll be inside the bus for roughly 12 hours, with one bus change along the way.
• By train: There isn’t a direct train to Lake Tahoe from Los Angeles, but you can board Amtrak’s San Joaquins train. You’ll start with a bus from Union Station to Bakersfield, where you’ll get on the train. Arriving in Sacramento, you’ll get onto one of the Amtrak Thruway buses that will take you to Reno. This journey takes about 16 hours to complete.

However, the point of this article is to encourage you to drive it with all the stops along the way.

Looking for more LA trips? Check out this Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park drive or a longer LA to Grand Canyon road trip .

Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip Map

10 Stops on a Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip

You can’t simply tackle a road trip that crosses paths with the Mojave Desert, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and Yosemite without making a few stops. Here are some rave-worthy possible pitstops for your road trip to Lake Tahoe from Los Angeles.

1. Red Rock Canyon State Park

Sitting 120 miles from Los Angeles, the first majorly impressive stopping point is Red Rock Canyon State Park. You’ll reach this jewel after about two hours of driving, with it nestled at the converging point of the Sierra Nevada and El Paso mountains, and see why it’s a popular California to Arizona road trip stop.

You shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to see this somewhat undiscovered gem along Highway 395. What makes it so unique, though? Beyond its dramatic and colorful landscapes, several hiking trails are short enough to consider while you take a break from driving.

Two of the easiest ones, which won’t take up too much time, are the 1.2-mile Hagen Canyon Nature Trai l and the 1-mile Red Cliffs Trail . If you’re not up for hiking, there are numerous sites where you can view ancient petroglyphs that don’t require any hiking to reach.

Get your free road trip packing list here!

You’ll also love going on a Los Angeles to Palm Springs road trip .

2. Death Valley National Park

Although it’s not technically on Highway 395, Death Valley National Park is a must-visit destination on your trip. The best way to reach Death Valley is to head from Red Rock Canyon to the entrance of Death Valley at Furnace Creek. It’s a 155-mile drive from Red Rock, easily doable in roughly two hours and 50 minutes.

The first time I was here, I was blown away by how beautiful it was (it’s one of my top California parks in addition to Joshua Tree ). I had no idea what to expect, but I loved going on unique hikes, stopping at some of the roadside attractions, and discovering more about the history of the area.

As the largest national park in the continental US, it also boasts a few other titles, including the hottest, driest, and lowest point in the entire country. You’ll have enough eye-catching scenery from sand dunes, salt flats, multiple canyons, and captivating views here.

Some of, if not the top spots within the park, are:

• Badwater Basin: Officially the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin was once covered by a lake, which has long since evaporated. Today, at 282 feet below sea level, it’s a dramatic landscape almost stripped from an entirely different planet.
• Artists Drive & Artists Palette: One of the most scenic drives in the park, this 9-mile loop road takes you to some spectacular areas. Aside from the marvelous colors displayed along the various canyons and hills, you can stop and venture to the lookout point at Artists Palette after about five miles.
• Zabriskie Point: An iconic viewpoint in Death Valley, Zabriskie Point offers the most striking views of the surrounding badlands. Do a quick stop at the lookout point or hike either the Gower Gulch or Golden Canyon trails.
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: As one of the most accessible points in the park, the world-famous Mesquite sand dunes stretch for miles. If you’re up for some adventure, you can sandboard along the dunes or just capture a few Instagram-worthy snapshots .

Love national parks? Check out a Los Angeles to Sequoia National Park road trip .

3. Alabama Hills

Reaching the Alabama Hills once you’re done in Death Valley is a short-ish drive of about 105 miles, which should take, at most, just under two hours on your road trip from LA to Lake Tahoe. Before you reach this stunning area, you’ll travel through the small town of Lone Pine.

Considered the gateway to Mount Whitney and the Alabama Hills, it’s a fantastic place to grab a quick bite before heading for the hills. Covering 30,000 acres, the Alabama Hills showcase a sharp contrast in the landscape to the imposing Sierra Nevada Mountains. 

A recognized National Scenic Area, there are a few popular activities that most come to indulge in when here. Your stop here, however, is all about photography, with these being the top spots for it:

• Movie Road: This scenic drive takes you along a stretch of the Alabama Hills that have been the visual backdrop to more than 400 Hollywood movies. You’ll reach Movie Road after a 2.5-mile drive from Lone Pine along Whitney Portal Road.
• Mobius Arch: There are many natural arches within the hills, but the most famous is Mobius Arch. Thanks to it perfectly framing both Mount Whitney and Lone Pine Peak, it’s a must for avid photographers.

I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years to help me plan out my trips and find fun stops along the way. Use my code “BTR5QTP” for $5 off when you sign up!

4. Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest

After making your way through the Alabama Hills, after roughly 70 miles, you’ll reach a prehistoric site that you can’t skip out on. After driving for one hour and 30 minutes, the next pitstop on your Lake Tahoe trip is the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest.

This fantastic natural marvel, situated 10,000 feet above the slopes of White Mountain, is the home of several of the world’s oldest trees. Don’t expect greenery and sprawling, lush scenery, though. Most trees here display a twisting and gnarled appearance, with the oldest tree, Methuselah , being 4,700 years old. 

The drive here provides stunning views of the Eastern Sierra Mountains, located along Highway 168 just off the path from the Schulman Grove Visitor Center.

Another gorgeous California trip idea is a road trip to Big Sur from San Francisco .

5. Hot Creek Geological Site

After taking some time to look at the old trees in Bristlecone, you’ll head about 38 miles away to the charming town of Bishop. Stop for a quick bite to eat and prepare for the next part of your epic trip. Heading out for another 42 miles from Bishop, the one-hour drive brings you to the Hot Creek Geological Site.

This hotbed of geothermal and volcanic activity is quite a sight to behold, with a boardwalk that winds throughout the canyon. See several boiling hot springs, steaming vents, and shimmering light blue and turquoise water pools on your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip.

Make sure to reserve your rental car ahead of time! I love using Discover Cars for my trips.

6. Mammoth Lakes

Luckily, the next destination on your trip is only a 10-mile drive from the Hot Creek Geological Site. Tackle the short 20-minute drive arriving in the resort town of Mammoth Lakes. There is a lot to do and see here, but considering your time, these are a few highlights to include:

• Mammoth Scenic Loop: This 16-mile loop trail is the best way to see premier spots such as the Inyo Craters, Earthquake Fault, and the Obsidian Dome.
• Devils Postpile National Monument: If you’re after some mesmerizing geological formations, these hexagonal basalt formations were formed nearly 100,000 years ago. 
• Rainbow Falls: A short hike from Devil’s Postpile brings you to the eye-catching 101-foot Rainbow Falls. If you’re here at midday, you’ll get the chance to see the namesake rainbow effect.

Need more ideas? Check out this Big Sur to Los Angeles road trip .

7. Mono Lake

Next up on your road trip to Lake Tahoe, 35 miles from Mammoth Lakes, the second oldest lake in North America, is where you’re headed. The ancient saline lake, Mono Lake, is estimated to be twice as salty as the ocean. It is most famous for its tufa towers and the beautiful way its still waters reflect the mountains around it.

The southern tufa area is where you’ll find the largest collection of these calcium carbonate towers and an easy one-mile self-guided nature trail. Close to Mono Lake lies the Panum Crater , the “youngest” crater leading to the lake, and you can undertake the short hike to the crater’s core.

Ready for more road trip ideas? The Los Angeles to San Francisco road trip via 101 is stunning.

8. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the most famous stopping points for most travelers on Highway 395. Before getting to the park, though, there’s a short drive of seven miles from Mono Lake to the quaint town of Lee Vining. Seeing as you’re on the eastern side of Yosemite, you can stop here for a bite to eat at the famous Whoa Nellie Deli .

Head along Highway 120 (Tioga Road) once you leave Lee Vining to drive through the captivating Yosemite high country. This short 12-mile drive from town takes you past some epic highlights, such as Ellery Lake, Pothole Dome, and Olmstead Point .

Entering Yosemite via the Tioga Road entrance, it’s roughly 60 miles from Yosemite Valley, but take note that Tioga Road is only open from May to October, so plan your Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip accordingly.

9. Bodie State Historic Park

Around 40 miles from Yosemite, the next stop on your Highway 395 road trip is Bodie State Historic Park . What was once a blossoming mining town home to more than 10,000 residents now has 100 deserted buildings for you to explore.

Take some time to walk around the remains of the town and for a glimpse into the past. You can visit homes, stores, and even an abandoned school when driving from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe. It’s bizarre, as some homes still display beds, clothing, and cutlery.

Getting to Bodie means taking a short detour onto Bodie Road (Highway 270), seven miles south of Bridgeport. You’ll head out on 10 miles of paved road and then three miles of dirt road to reach Bodie.

Feel like being in a big city? Why not go on a San Francisco to Las Vegas road trip ?

10. South Lake Tahoe

Finally, South Lake Tahoe is the last stop on your road trip and the predestined finish line. The homestretch from Bodie consists of a 110-mile drive, which you can cover in just over two hours. As the largest and second deepest alpine lake in North America, it’s guaranteed to be the crowning glory of your trip.

There is lots to do and see here, but some activities and attractions are worth a mention and a spot on your Lake Tahoe to Los Angeles road trip. These include:

• Explore the lake: This one is a bit obvious, but the only surefire way to appreciate the lake is by driving around it.
• Emerald Bay: One of the most stunning spots in Lake Tahoe is Emerald Bay, and it’s home to the only island, Fannette Island.
• Go hiking: Another obvious one, with hundreds of miles of hiking and nature trails, you can’t pass up the chance to trek around Lake Tahoe.
• Head onto the water: A staple attraction at Lake Tahoe is going offshore on the M.S. Dixie cruise.

Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip Itinerary – 3 Days Along US-395

The most popular route for eager travelers to Lake Tahoe from LA, the US-395 route (Death Valley Route), is quick, easy, and jam-packed, with must-see sights to fill your trip itinerary .

Day 1: Los Angeles to Bishop

Travel Distance: 4 hours (266 miles)

Setting out of LA along CA-14 N, you’ll head through Santa Clarita, Mojave, and finally, join Highway 395 just outside Ridgecrest. Sticking to Highway 395, you’ll venture through Lone Pine and Big Pine before reaching Bishop. 

Where to Stay : The Cielo Hotel Bishop-Mammoth is a fantastic three-star option in the center of Bishop.

Day 2: Bishop to Lee Vining

Travel Distance: 1 hour and 10 minutes (65 miles)

Your second day starts off with a short drive to the small town of Lee Vining. Closely located to Yosemite, it’s the ideal spot to spend a night, allowing you to explore some of the national park’s highlights.

Where to Stay: Book a room at the Yosemite Gateway Motel . It’s right in the middle of Lee Vining and features everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay.

Day 3: Lee Vining to South Lake Tahoe

Travel Distance: 5 hours and 44 minutes (313 miles)

A bit of a backtrack might be needed, but from Lee Vining, you’ll head through Mono Hills to Benton, where you’ll take US-95. Once through Yerington and Smith Valley, you rejoin Highway 395, which leads to South Lake Tahoe.

Where to Stay: You have several options of where to stay once at Lake Tahoe, but the stellar 4-star Hotel Azure is one of the best.

Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip Itinerary – 5 Days Along The Sierra Nevada Route

Although it’s not as short as Highway 395, the longer and equally scenic Sierra Nevada Route is perfect if you have more time on your hands.

Day 1: Los Angeles to Bakersfield

Travel Distance: 1 hour and 54 minutes (111 miles)

Taking the I-5 N, you’ll leave Los Angeles and head through Santa Clarita, making your way through Gorman and Grapevine, and arriving in Bakersfield. You can use this as a base for exploring the nearby Los Padres National Forest.

Where to Stay: The Padre Hotel in the heart of Bakersfield is the perfect place to spend the night.

Day 2: Bakersfield to Fresno

Travel Distance: 1 hour and 40 minutes (109 miles)

Departing from Bakersfield along CA-99 N, this part of the trip takes you through a few small towns ending in Fresno. The city of Fresno is a great place as it’s close to Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, and the Sierra National Forest.

Where to Stay: One of the best places to overnight in Fresno is the charming Summerfield Inn Fresno Yosemite , located in the city’s downtown area.

Day 3: Fresno to Modesto

Travel Distance: 1 hour and 30 minutes (95 miles)

A stone’s throw from Fresno, the charming city of Modesto is your next stop along CA-99 N. If you’re not keen on spending the night in the busier hub of San Jose, this is a fantastic alternative, close to Yosemite National Park and Henry W. Coe State Park.

Where to Stay: A little outside of Modesto’s center, the best accommodation for the night is the Holiday Inn Express Hotel in Salida.

Day 4: Modesto to Sacramento

Travel Distance: 1 hour and 15 minutes (76 miles)

Heading out of Modesto on CA-99 N, this part of your trip goes through Stockton and ends in Sacramento. The city is a fantastic place with a few attractions and is the last central hub before heading to Lake Tahoe.

Where to Stay: Located in downtown Sacramento, the 4-star Hyatt Regency offers a beautiful place to rest your head in a convenient central location.

Day 5: Sacramento to Tahoe City

Travel Distance: 2 hours and 3 minutes (113 miles)

Finally, on your last day, you’ll leave Sacramento on the I-80 E, through Colfax, towards Tahoe City. This is a scenic home stretch with the Eldorado National Forest on one side and Tahoe National Forest on the other.

Where to Stay: A standout accommodation option in Tahoe City, the Sunnyside Resort and Lodge features a beachfront location and epic lake views.

You’ll love going on this beautiful Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip, especially during the summer!

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a passionate road trip enthusiast who has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada via car and continues to go on new trips every year to explore more of the country. Her love of road tripping has given her a unique perspective on the best routes, hidden gems, and must-see attractions along the way.

2 thoughts on “ 10 Amazing Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip Stops to Make ”

Planning my LA to Lake Tahoe road trip and these tips are invaluable! Can’t wait to hit the road and explore the scenic route ahead.

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