Looking for a quick break from the City of Angels? Whether you’re a local needing a reset or a visitor seeking new adventures beyond L.A., these 10 weekend trips from Los Angeles for 2025 offer something for everyone. From beachside bliss to desert wonders, these getaways are all within driving distance—perfect for a 2- or 3-day escape.
1. Santa Barbara: The American Riviera
Just 2 hours northwest of L.A., Santa Barbara offers Mediterranean vibes with upscale dining, wine tasting, and beach strolls.
Highlights:
- Wine tours in the Santa Ynez Valley
- Strolling along Stearns Wharf
- Santa Barbara Mission and botanic gardens
📌 Tip: Stay at a boutique hotel near State Street for easy access to everything.
2. Palm Springs: Desert Chic
Only 2 hours away, Palm Springs is a retro-cool escape with art, spas, and mid-century charm.
Highlights:
- Relax in natural hot springs in nearby Desert Hot Springs
- Visit the Palm Springs Art Museum
- Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
🛎️ Ideal for a wellness or spa weekend.
3. Big Bear Lake: All-Season Fun
Just 2.5 hours east, Big Bear Lake is a perfect weekend spot for skiing in winter and lake adventures in summer.
Highlights:
- Snow Summit ski resort
- Kayaking and paddleboarding in summer
- Cozy cabins and fire pits for romantic evenings
4. San Diego: City and Beach Combo
Only 2–2.5 hours south, San Diego gives you vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and family-friendly attractions.
Highlights:
- Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo
- Gaslamp Quarter dining and nightlife
- La Jolla coves and sea lions
🍴 Foodies will love the fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine scene.
5. Ojai: A Spiritual Retreat
Nestled just 90 minutes from L.A., Ojai is known for its wellness retreats, art galleries, and peaceful ambiance.
Highlights:
- Meditation centers and yoga retreats
- Ojai Olive Oil tasting
- Boutique shopping in downtown Ojai
🧘 Great for couples or solo travelers needing rejuvenation.
6. Joshua Tree National Park
Less than 3 hours away, Joshua Tree is an iconic destination for nature lovers and stargazers.
Highlights:
- Rock climbing and hiking trails
- Stargazing under dark desert skies
- Local art installations and boho cafes
🌌 Bring a telescope or take a night tour with a park ranger.
7. Solvang: Danish Village in California
About 2.5 hours north, this quaint town offers a unique cultural escape with windmills, wine, and pastries.
Highlights:
- Danish bakeries and architecture
- Wine tasting rooms and nearby vineyards
- Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum
🍷 Perfect for a romantic or foodie weekend.
8. Laguna Beach: Artistic Seaside Vibes
Just over an hour from Los Angeles, Laguna Beach is a creative coastal haven.
Highlights:
- Art galleries and Pageant of the Masters (summer)
- Cliffside hikes and oceanfront dining
- Crystal Cove State Park for nature walks
🎨 Artists and beach lovers alike will feel at home.
9. Idyllwild: Mountain Hideaway
Roughly 2.5 hours southeast of L.A., Idyllwild is a pine-scented getaway ideal for unplugging.
Highlights:
- Rustic cabins and B&Bs
- Hiking in the San Jacinto Mountains
- Local arts, music, and craft fairs
🌲 Ideal for nature-lovers and couples.
10. Temecula: Wine Country Escape
Just 1.5 hours away, Temecula is Southern California’s wine destination, complete with hot air balloon rides.
Highlights:
- Over 40 wineries to explore
- Old Town Temecula’s charm and shopping
- Hot air balloon tours at sunrise
🥂 Best for wine-lovers and special occasion trips.
Internal Linking Opportunities:
- Planning a romantic escape? Don’t miss our Sri Lanka Honeymoon Getaway.
- Save money while traveling! Check out our Flight Hacks for 2025.
