15 Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles
You don’t need to burn a week of PTO to feel refreshed. From the high desert to the high mountains, here are 15 realistic and truly great west coast weekend getaways that all start from your L.A. doorstep
There’s a reason Palm Springs is the quintessential weekend getaway from LA. The moment you see those windmills, your shoulders drop. This is the capital of mid-century modern cool, a desert oasis built on a foundation of poolside cocktails, sleek architecture, and a glamorous “no-worries” attitude. The dry desert heat just hits different, and the backdrop of the San Jacinto mountains is nothing short of majestic.
It’s the perfect spot to do absolutely nothing but lounge by a turquoise pool, or to be as active as you want. It’s an ideal couples getaway LA residents flock to, but it’s also a blast with a group of friends. The “scene” is real, but it’s also one of the most genuinely relaxing places you can drive to.
Things to do:
- Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to the cool mountain air for a stunning view and a quick hike.
- Take an architecture tour (or just drive around the neighborhoods) to see the famous mid-century modern homes.
- Hike in the Indian Canyons or Tahquitz Canyon (best in cooler months).
- Book a spa day, browse the Uptown Design District, and secure a dinner reservation somewhere with a great patio.
How to get there: A straight shot east on the I-10. It’s about 2 hours, but as any local knows, that can easily become 3-4 hours if you leave at the wrong time on a Friday.
Joshua Tree
If Palm Springs is the chic, manicured resort, Joshua Tree is its wild, spiritual, bohemian cousin. Just a bit further into the high desert, this place is pure magic. It’s a rugged, sprawling landscape of giant boulders, Dr. Seuss-like trees, and a silence so deep it’s almost loud. The vibe is less “cocktail” and more “craft beer at a saloon,” less “resort” and more “eclectic Airbnb with a hot tub and a record player.”
People come here to disconnect from the grid and reconnect with something more elemental. The stargazing is unreal, the air is crisp, and the creative energy is palpable. It’s a favorite for artists, musicians, and anyone looking to feel small against a vast, beautiful backdrop.
Things to do:
- Spend a full day in Joshua Tree National Park. Don’t miss the Cholla Cactus Garden (at sunrise!), Skull Rock, and the easy hike to Arch Rock.
- Catch a live show at Pappy & Harriet’s in nearby Pioneertown- an iconic desert experience.
- Explore the quirky shops on the main drag (Hwy 62).
- Experience a “sound bath” at the Integratron for some unique desert wellness.
How to get there: About 2.5 to 3 hours from LA, taking the I-10 out past Palm Springs.
Santa Barbara
Head north up the coast, and the scenery shifts dramatically. Santa Barbara is “California” exactly as you picture it: red-tile roofs, white-stucco buildings, and sparkling blue ocean set against the chaparral-covered Santa Ynez Mountains. It’s sophisticated and upscale but in a totally relaxed, “flip-flops with a linen shirt” kind of way.
The city is clean, walkable, and endlessly beautiful. You can spend the morning at the beach, the afternoon tasting wine in a hip warehouse, and the evening eating fantastic farm-to-table food.
Things to do:
- Explore the Funk Zone, a former industrial area now packed with wine-tasting rooms, breweries, and art galleries.
- Walk the length of Stearns Wharf and enjoy the classic coastal views.
- Shop and dine on State Street (much of which is now a pedestrian-only promenade).
- Watch the sunset at Butterfly Beach in neighboring Montecito.
How to get there: An easy and scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive up the US-101. The view as you come into town from the south is worth the drive alone.
Ojai
Nestled in a valley just inland from Ventura, Ojai is a special place. It’s a small, scenic town that famously has no chain stores by law. The vibe is all about wellness, art, and a deep connection to the (often mystical) landscape. It’s where you go to do yoga, browse one of the world’s best outdoor bookstores, and watch the “pink moment” as the setting sun hits the Topatopa Mountains.
This is not a party town. It’s a “go to bed at 10 PM after a glass of local wine and a good book” town. It’s one of the easiest short trips from Los Angeles and feels like a true decompression chamber from the city’s frantic pace.
Things to do:
- Browse for hours at Bart’s Books, the legendary outdoor bookstore.
- Hike or bike the Ojai Valley Trail, a flat and scenic path.
- Visit a meditation center or book a spa treatment at one of the wellness-focused hotels.
- Sip on local olive oil at Ojai Olive Oil and check out the Sunday Farmer’s Market.
How to get there: A simple 1.5-hour drive up the 101, then a short hop inland on Highway 33.
San Diego
Yes, it’s another big city, but San Diego‘s vibe is the polar opposite of LA’s. It’s a city made of distinct, laid-back beach towns. The “hurry” gene just seems to be missing here. With perfect weather, 70 miles of coastline, a world-class zoo, and arguably the best Mexican food in America, it’s one of the most reliable weekend getaways from Los Angeles for families.
You can craft any kind of weekend here: a beach-bum trip in Pacific Beach, a family adventure in La Jolla and Balboa Park, or a foodie and brewery tour in North Park and Little Italy. It’s impossible not to relax here.
Things to do:
- Spend a day in Balboa Park, home to the San Diego Zoo, beautiful Spanish-Colonial architecture, and a dozen museums.
- Watch the sea lions and seals at La Jolla Cove.
- Explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter for dinner and nightlife, or walk the USS Midway Museum.
- Relax on the pristine beaches of Coronado.
How to get there: A 2.5 to 3-hour drive down the I-5. Hot tip: To avoid the infamous LA-to-SD traffic, take the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner train. It’s a beautiful, stress-free ride that hugs the coast.
Big Bear Lake
When LA is in the middle of a 100-degree heatwave, the idea of a pine-scented, 7,000-foot-elevation lake town sounds like heaven. Big Bear is LA’s four-season mountain escape. In winter, it’s all about skiing, snowboarding, and cozying up by a fireplace. In summer, the lake comes alive with boating, kayaking, fishing, and mountain biking.
It’s a fantastic destination for families and a classic for anyone who needs a real change of scenery. The town itself (“The Village”) is charming, with souvenir shops and restaurants, but the real draw is the stunning alpine lake and the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest.
Things to do:
- Ski or snowboard at Snow Summit or Bear Mountain (winter).
- Rent a kayak or pontoon boat to get out on the lake (summer).
- Hike the Castle Rock Trail for the best views of the lake.
- Walk through The Village and grab a bite to eat.
How to get there: About 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. The final 45 minutes are on a winding mountain road, so check conditions (you may need chains in winter).
Idyllwild
If Big Bear is the bustling ski resort, Idyllwild is its quiet, quirky, artistic sibling. Tucked away in the San Jacinto Mountains (the same ones looming over Palm Springs), this tiny town is a true escape. There are no ski lifts, no lake (just small creeks), and no traffic lights. It’s just pine trees, cabins, art galleries, and a friendly, small-town atmosphere.
This is where you go to read a book, hike in the woods, and breathe in the fresh, cool air. It’s a scenic small towns near Los Angeles experience at its best, perfect for a quiet romantic weekend or a solo retreat.
Things to do:
- Hike the trails around the Idyllwild Nature Center or the more challenging Suicide Rock trail for epic views.
- Explore the town’s many unique shops, bakeries, and art galleries.
- Listen to live music at a local restaurant or brewery.
- The town has a dog for a mayor. ‘Nuff said.
How to get there: About 2 to 2.5 hours. You can take the 10 and go up the “back way” or go south towards Temecula and wind your way up.
Catalina Island
Want to feel like you’ve gone to the Mediterranean without a passport? Catalina is your answer. Just 26 miles off the coast, this island feels a world away. The main town of Avalon is a tiny, walkable harbor village where golf carts are the primary mode of transport. The water is clear, the hills are rugged, and the vibe is pure vacation.
It’s one of the most unique short trips from Los Angeles. You can be adventurous (ziplining, snorkeling, hiking) or just lounge at the Descanso Beach Club with a drink in hand.
Things to do:
- Rent a golf cart and zip around the hills of Avalon for stunning views (a must-do).
- Go snorkeling or kayaking in the clear water at Lover’s Cove or Descanso Bay.
- Take the “Bison Expedition” tour to see the island’s famous (and non-native) bison herd.
- Tour the iconic Catalina Casino, a beautiful Art Deco landmark.
How to get there: A one-hour ferry ride via the Catalina Express from Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point. Book both ferry and hotel way in advance.
Laguna Beach
While it’s close enough for a day trip, Laguna Beach truly shines as a weekend getaway. This slice of the Orange County coast feels different from its neighbors. Built into canyons and set along a series of stunning, intimate coves (rather than one long, flat beach), it has a European, artsy feel.
It’s a “walk everywhere” kind of town. You can park your car on Friday and not touch it again until Sunday. Spend your days exploring hidden beaches, browsing high-end art galleries, and tide pooling. It’s a beautiful, easy, and sophisticated beach escape.
Things to do:
- Go tide pooling at Treasure Island Beach or Heisler Park.
- Hike to the “Top of the World” for a panoramic coastal view.
- In summer, attend the famous Pageant of the Masters and the Sawdust Art Festival.
- Walk the main beach and play basketball or volleyball at the famous courts.
How to get there: Only 1 to 1.5 hours south, but the 405/5 split can be a nightmare. Avoid rush hour at all costs.
Temecula
When Napa and Sonoma are too far for a weekend, Temecula is the answer. Just 90 minutes from LA, this is Southern California‘s very own wine country. It’s more rustic and relaxed than its northern counterparts, with a friendly, unpretentious vibe. The hills are covered in vineyards, and the area is famous for its hot air ballooning.
It’s a perfect spot for a group of friends or a couple looking to do some day-drinking and enjoy the sunny, inland weather. Old Town Temecula adds a dose of rustic, Old West charm with wooden boardwalks, antique shops, and great restaurants.
Things to do:
- Go wine tasting. Many wineries are clustered on Rancho California Road. (Pro tip: Hire a driver or join a tour).
- Take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the vineyards.
- Explore Old Town Temecula’s shops, breweries, and restaurants.
- Try your luck at the Pechanga Resort Casino.
How to get there: A very easy 1.5 to 2-hour drive southeast on the 15 freeway.
Los Alamos & Los Olivos
This is one of those “if you know, you know” weekend trips from Los Angeles. Tucked in the Santa Ynez Valley (near Solvang and Santa Barbara), these two tiny towns are a food and wine lover’s paradise. Los Alamos is one main street that feels like an Old West town, but it’s home to world-class food (like the Michelin-starred Bell’s) and amazing bread (Bob’s Well Bread Bakery).
A few miles away, Los Olivos is a charming, walkable village that consists almost entirely of wine-tasting rooms (over 30 of them). You park once and walk from tasting to tasting. It’s a sophisticated, delicious, and very un-LA weekend.
Things to do:
- Make reservations at Bell’s in Los Alamos months in advance.
- Go wine tasting in the many walkable tasting rooms of Los Olivos.
- Browse the antique shops and art galleries.
- Grab breakfast at Bob’s Well Bread Bakery (expect a line, it’s worth it).
How to get there: About 2.5 hours up the 101. It’s a beautiful and easy drive.
San Luis Obispo
Known as SLO (San Luis Obispo), this is one of the best West Coast weekend getaways. It’s the perfect halfway point between LA and San Francisco, but it’s a fantastic destination in its own right. It’s a vibrant college town, but with a surprisingly grown-up food and wine scene. The vibe is, well, slow and incredibly friendly.
The town is nestled in a valley of green, volcanic hills (called the Morros) and is just minutes from great beaches. It’s a weekend of hiking, eating, and just enjoying the chill atmosphere.
Things to do:
- Visit the (in)famous Bubblegum Alley.
- Hike to the top of Bishop Peak or Madonna (Cerro San Luis) for 360-degree views.
- Go to the massive Thursday Night Farmers’ Market (a street fair with amazing BBQ).
- Have a drink or a slice of cake at the gloriously pink and kitschy Madonna Inn.
How to get there: A smooth 3 to 3.5-hour drive up the 101.
Las Vegas
You knew it was coming. It’s not in California, and it’s the opposite of a “relaxing getaway,” but it is an absolute classic LA weekend trip. Sometimes you don’t want quiet – you want sensory overload. Vegas is the capital of world-class shows, unbelievable restaurants, and 24/7 energy.
It’s the ultimate “escape from reality” for a weekend. What happens in Vegas is up to you, it can be a foodie trip, a party trip, a “see three Cirque du Soleil shows” trip, or even a spa trip at one of the luxury hotels.
Things to do:
- See a show. From Cirque to magic to resident superstars, the entertainment is unmatched.
- Walk the Strip and see the Fountains of Bellagio, the Venetian canals, and the new Sphere.
- Eat at a celebrity chef restaurant.
- Explore the Fremont Street Experience in “Old” Vegas.
How to get there: It’s a 4 to 5-hour drive across the desert. Crucial advice: Never drive there on a Friday afternoon or back on a Sunday afternoon unless you want to be in traffic for 8+ hours. Fly (1 hour) or drive at off-peak times.
Solvang
For one of the most unique scenic small towns near Los Angeles, head to Solvang. Yes, it’s a bit touristy, but it’s also undeniably charming. The entire town was built in the style of a Danish village, complete with windmills, timber-framed buildings, and bakeries selling aebleskiver (Danish pancake balls).
It’s a fun, quirky base for exploring the Santa Ynez Valley wine country, and it’s especially great for families. Where else can you eat Danish pastries and then go feed an ostrich?
Things to do:
- Eat aebleskiver and other Danish pastries from a local bakery.
- Take photos with the giant windmills and the Little Mermaid statue.
- Visit OstrichLand USA to feed ostriches and emus (a classic, quirky stop).
- Use the town as a base to explore the wineries in nearby Los Olivos.
How to get there: About 2.5 hours up the 101. It’s an easy and beautiful drive.
Paso Robles
If you’re a serious wine fan, especially of big red wines, Paso Robles is worth the longer drive. It’s Napa’s rugged, unpretentious, cowboy-boot-wearing cousin. The region is known for its bold Zinfandels, Cabernet Sauvignons, and Rhône-style blends. The vibe is laid-back, the tasting rooms are friendly, and the landscape is all rolling, oak-studded hills.
The town square is a classic, built around a lovely park and lined with great restaurants and shops. In recent years, it’s also become a hotspot for breweries and distilleries, centered in the cool Tin City industrial park.
Things to do:
- Go wine tasting. Don’t miss the cave tours at Eberle Winery or the fun, casual vibe at Tobin James.
- Visit Sensorio, a massive, stunning outdoor light installation by Bruce Munro (book well in advance).
- Explore Tin City, a walkable warehouse district full of craft breweries, cideries, and small-batch wineries.
How to get there: This is one of the longer weekend trips from LA, at about 3.5 to 4 hours. But it’s an easy drive up the 101 and 46.
How to Pick your Weekend Destination
Choosing the right getaway from Los Angeles depends on who’s going, what you want, and how much time you have. Here are some tips:
Time & travel radius: If you only have Friday evening to Sunday evening, stick to destinations within ~2-3 hours from L.A. (e.g., Ventura, Ojai, Temecula). If you’re willing to drive ~3-4 hours, you open up places like Cambria or San Luis Obispo.
Type of experience:
- Romantic couples escape? Consider Palm Springs, Solvang, Ojai.
- Family-friendly with kids? Look at San Diego, Big Bear (for nature), Ventura.
- Scenic small towns / chill vibe? Cambria, Solvang, Ojai.
- Adventure/outdoors? Joshua Tree, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead.
Transport comfort: If you hate long drives after work on Friday, pick something with shorter travel time. If you don’t mind driving, go a little farther.
Season & interest: Some destinations shine in certain seasons – e.g., Big Bear in winter for snow, Palms Springs in cooler months for desert sun, coastal towns more flexible.
Budget & lodging availability: Check lodging early; some places fill fast or prices spike.
Fitness & pacing: If you’re up for hikes and activity, choose towns with trails (Big Bear, Joshua Tree, San Luis Obispo). If you just want to relax, pick places with spa-pool-beach options (Palm Springs, Ojai, Ventura).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 2-3 hours away from LA?
You have so many amazing options! Within a 2-3 hour drive (traffic-dependent, of course), you can get to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, Santa Barbara, Ojai, Big Bear Lake, Idyllwild, Temecula, and San Diego.
Where to go in California for a weekend getaway?
The best part about California is the variety. You can choose your own adventure. The most popular choices are the desert escapes (Palm Springs, Joshua Tree), the mountain retreats (Big Bear, Idyllwild), or the classic coastal towns (Santa Barbara, San Diego, Laguna Beach).
What are some scenic small towns near Los Angeles?
If you’re tired of big cities, LA is surrounded by charming small towns. My top picks for a scenic, small-town vibe are Ojai (wellness and art), Idyllwild (cozy mountain town), Los Alamos (Old West foodie town), Solvang (uniqueDanish village), and Laguna Beach (artsy beach coves).
Is $500 enough for a weekend trip?
Yes, $500 can be enough for a fantastic weekend trip, especially if you’re smart about it. Focus on going in the off-season, staying in a more affordable motel or Airbnb, and prioritizing free activities like hiking and beach-going.
What are the best romantic getaways Los Angeles couples love?
For a couples getaway los angeles romantics will love, you can’t go wrong with Santa Barbara (wine, beaches, great food), Ojai (spa, wellness, quiet), or Palm Springs (boutique hotels, poolside lounging, chic dinners). Catalina Island also feels like a very special, romantic escape.
What about weekend getaways from Los Angeles for families?
My top picks for families are San Diego (the Zoo, Balboa Park, beaches), Big Bear Lake (lake activities in summer, snow play in winter), Catalina Island (golf carts, snorkeling, bison), and Solvang (quirky village, pastries, OstrichLand).
Cre: Internet