Day Trips from Los Angeles
By definition a day trip means a desirable location to which you can drive, experience to some degree, and return in a single day. The outer limit of such a trip is probably about 200 miles or a three hour drive.
To the West: South Catalina Island
South Catalina Island
Spend the day on Santa Catalina, an idyllic island 22 miles offshore that’s been compared to Mediterranean jewels like Capri. Passenger boats and helicopters leave from Long Beach to reach this beautiful parcel of land. The crossing takes an hour by boat and 10 minutes by helicopter. All year long, Catalina Express (800-481-3470) operates up to 22 daily ferries to Avalon Harbor, and Island Express (800-2-AVALON) lands at the heliport a short taxi ride away.
To the North: Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and the Hearst Castle
Santa Barbara
A popular vacation spot for Hollywood types, Santa Barbara is a relaxing alternative to the activity of the city. With its multitude of historic Spanish missions, you truly get a sense of California’s cultural past. Wine-tasting can be had at several vineyards which dot the surrounding landscape. Students of the University of California Santa Barbara create a college-town atmosphere with enough shopping and nightlife for those who want to get away for the weekend without giving up entertainment. The drive from L.A. along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway is beautiful, and short enough that you can make this a true day trip if you can’t stay for the weekend. For more information, visit the official Santa Barbara Visitor’s Guide. Approximately 95 miles from Los Angeles
San Luis Obispo & Hearst Castle
A few hours up the coast lays San Luis Obispo, a friendly beach community that serves as a great launching point for exploring the central coast. Drive north 45 minutes to tour the lavish former home of William Randolph Hearst, or drive south 15 minutes to dine on fried clams in Pismo Beach. If you’re looking for an experience to remember, stay a night in the famous Madonna Inn, which offers unique themed rooms and a kitschy pink bar/restaurant. Because of the distance, San Luis Obispo is better for weekend getaways than day trips from Los Angeles. For more information, visit the San Luis Obispo County Travel Guide. Approximately 200-250 miles from Los Angeles
To the South: Laguna Nigel, LaJolla and San Diego
San Diego
As the other large city in southern California, San Diego offers an urban environment with a laid-back surfer attitude. It’s considered to have the best weather on the west coast, so there’s truly no bad time of the year to make this day trip from Los Angeles. The Gaslamp District is full of shopping and restaurants, while Old Town offers a historic look at southern California. Also popular are the famous San Diego Zoo, Sea World, and Lego Land (for the kids). For more information, visit the San Diego Convention & Visitor’s Bureau. Approximately 120 miles from Los Angeles
To the West: Palm Springs
Palm Springs
Known as a playground for the stars of classic Hollywood, Palm Springs still makes a quiet and relaxing getaway for Angelinos. Spend the weekend at one of the area’s day spas for the ultimate in desert relaxation. Or view local wildlife and landscapes from one of the areas many hiking trails. For a unique experience, take the Aerial Tram to the top of the mountains and discover the cool, woodland climate high above the city. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and a few bars frequented by the local folk who live there year-round. On your way back, stop at the outlet malls for some great deals, or try your luck at the Morongo Casino. For more information, visit the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism. Approximately 100 miles from Los Angeles. |
