49 Best Things to do in Southern California—Without Kids!

Whether you’re a local or planning your first trip to Southern California, you’ll walk away from this post with plenty of new places to explore.

I’ve lived in Southern California for over a decade and have split that time between Los Angeles and San Diego—and during those years, I’ve been on countless getaways throughout the region.

One of my favorite things about living in and exploring Southern California is the sheer diversity in landscapes and ways to take it in—from National Parks and high desert terrain, to cities, mountain towns, wine country and beach escapes, we literally have it all. No matter what kind of travel you’re into, you can find something to love in this section of California.

While there are plenty of resources out there for what to do in SoCal with kids (like the obvious Disneyland, Universal Studios, etc), I wanted to focus this post on the things that adults can enjoy whether you’re a local just looking to explore new and exciting things to do in Southern California or you’re visiting for the first time with your partner or friends.

I’ll cover great activities for couples, free things to add to your bucket list, the most beautiful places in Southern California and much more. And just to make it clear—I’ve been to every single spot on this list myself, so all these recommendations come from someone who’s experienced it firsthand! Let’s get into it.

 49 Best Things To Do In Southern California

Before we get into all the best things to do in this part of California, let’s go through some tips that will help you plan your trip around the area better. Keep in mind that Southern California is massive and you won’t be able to do it all in a single trip. Pick and choose what interests you most and go from there!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Southern California?

The best times to visit Southern California really vary depending on what you’re trying to see and accomplish. For example, the beach destinations will have the best weather in summer and early autumn, but desert locales are way too hot in peak summer months.

If you’re planning a big road trip and are trying to hit all kinds of different destinations, I’d recommend fall for the overall best time to explore—crowds are waning but weather in the beach areas are still beautiful. In wine country, fall is harvest season and a great time for tasting wines. Plus, desert destinations have cooled down slightly at this point to make visiting a bit more tolerable.

If you’re trying to catch some snow while visiting SoCal, then you’ll want to visit in late January or February for your best chance at hitting the slopes.

Here’s a little cheat sheet below on when to visit where in Southern California:

• Beach Destinations: Late summer to early fall for the best beach weather. September and October are my personal favorite times when the weather is still beautiful but crowds have dissipated.
• Desert Towns: October and November are when temperatures start to cool down but it’s still warm enough for pool days in places like Palm Springs. Spring can also bring beautiful desert wildflowers.
• Wine Country: Fall and spring are both great times to visit for comfortable temps.
• Mountain Towns: If you’re visiting Southern California in winter, you might be surprised to find out that it does snow in certain parts of SoCal. Keep that in mind if you’ll be traveling through higher elevation areas. Snowfall is best Jan-Feb.

What is the Weather Like in Southern California?

If you’ve ever heard of the terms “May Gray” or “June Gloom,” take it from me—these are very real phenomenons that happen along the coast in SoCal. If you’re hoping for a beach holiday in Southern California, I’d recommend avoiding these months as they can be unpredictable and totally overcast.

Beyond those months, SoCal is typically sunny the majority of days year-round, but it can get a little chilly in winter and in the evenings.

How to Get to Southern California

Depending on your itinerary, your best route is to either fly into Los Angeles (LAX) or San Diego (SAN) international airports and rent a car from there. There are many smaller regional airports throughout Southern California, but these two will have the widest array of flight options.

If you’re starting your journey in San Diego, a secret hack depending on where you’re flying from is to arrive at Tijuana Airport instead of San Diego and just pop through to the U.S. easily via the Cross Border Xpress (sometimes you can find better flight deals this way).

What is the Best Way to Get Around Southern California?

Southern California has notoriously terrible public transportation, so plan to rent a car so you can get around with ease. Even within SoCal’s top cities like Los Angeles and San Diego things can be very spread out, so you’re much better off with a car than trying to Uber or taxi around everywhere.

Also—traffic is a real thing in Southern California and travel times can vary significantly depending on rush hour or certain days of the week. No matter where you’re headed, utilize apps like Google Maps or Waze to help you strategize your route and cut down on travel times.

What to Pack for a Southern California Trip

You can likely leave the umbrella at home (I’ve used one once in the last decade plus!), but sunglasses, sandals, comfortable walking shoes, swimsuits, and layers are a must. Even in the warmer months it can get chilly at night, so it’s always good to have a light jacket on hand.

It’s also quite dry in California, so having a reusable water bottle and staying hydrated is a must.

What To Do In Southern California

Ok, let’s get into all the best things to do in Southern California. As someone who’s been to all these spots myself, I’ve broken them down into smaller categories to help you decide what should be a priority for your trip!

Unique Things to do in Southern California

Pirate’s Tower, Laguna Beach

This is one of those places in Southern California that doesn’t feel like it should exist—but I can promise you, it does. Hidden along Victoria Beach in the coastal town of Laguna Beach, Pirate’s Tower looks straight out of a fairytale with its storybook tower set at the foot of crashing waves.

Originally constructed in 1926 as a private staircase for a local homeowner, it’s now one of Laguna’s most photographed spots. For the best access and photos, I’d recommend planning your trip at low tide when you can walk right up to it.

Badwater Basin, Death Valley

Sitting at 282 feet below sea level, Badwater Basin in Death Valley holds the record as the lowest point in North America and it’s especially magical at sunrise or sunset.

This is one of the most unique photo spots in Southern California with the polygonal salt formations stretching for miles. It’s best to visit in winter as Death Valley is scorching in the summer months, and if you get lucky enough to visit after rainfall, you could get a rare chance to photograph the salt flats with epic reflections and a “walking on water” effect.

Pro tip: Wear shoes you don’t mind getting a bit wrecked as the salt can cake onto your footwear (the boots I wore here are forever ruined).

Moorten Botanical Garden, Palm Springs

If you’re a cactus lover like me, then you’ll adore this quirky family-run garden in Palm Springs. It’s been a local gem since 1938 and is often called a “living museum of desert plants.”

The Moorten Botanical Garden is home to more than 3,000 types of cacti and succulents, but the main highlight is the Cactarium—a greenhouse filled wall-to-wall with exotic cactus species. Entry is inexpensive, and it’s a great quick stop if you’re already in Palm Springs.

Hidden Rock Pools, Laguna Beach

These difficult-to-access rock pools are one of those “if you know you know” places in Southern California. Accessible from the south end of 1000 Steps Beach in Laguna Beach, these hidden rock pools are only safe to visit during low tide and can be found by traversing through a sea cave. Be safe and check tides before you attempt to visit.

Venice Canals, Venice Beach

Inspired by Venice, Italy, the Venice Canals in Los Angeles were built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney as the city’s own “Venice in America”. Today, they’re one of Venice Beach’s most charming strolls.

I lived near the canals for many years and I especially love grabbing a coffee nearby at Great White and then walking over in the morning when the canals are super peaceful. There are charming arched bridges and unique homes to explore here, and the area even puts on fun events throughout the year like a holiday boat parade.

Hiking in Joshua Tree National Park

For hiking enthusiasts, geology lovers, or just anyone looking for a unique place in Southern California to explore, Joshua Tree National Park needs to be top of your list.

It’s one of the top hiking destinations in SoCal, with unique rock formations, a stunning landscape dotted with Joshua Trees and otherworldly sunrises and sunsets. Some favorite trails you can’t miss are Arch Rock, Hidden Valley Nature Trail and the Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail.

Make sure to pack a lot of water as there is limited shade, and bring a flashlight if you plan to stay after dark—this area is also an incredible stargazing spot.

PS Air Bar, Palm Springs

Tucked inside a Palm Springs shopping center, PS Air Bar is one of the most unique cocktail lounges in SoCal. Designed like a vintage airplane cabin, complete with retro seating and aviation memorabilia, it’s a nostalgic throwback to the golden age of travel.

My husband and I went here on our last trip to Palm Springs and were served drinks by waiters dressed in full flight crew attire. Reservations are recommended on weekends.

Shopping in Pioneertown

If you want to be transported straight into an old Western film, Pioneertown is a must-visit. This one-of-a-kind destination was built back in the 1940s as a Hollywood movie set, but now remains only as a funky desert outpost.

As you stroll Pioneertown’s wooden-planked “Mane Street,” you’ll find quirky vintage shops, art galleries and my personal favorite store, XēBA BOTáNICA, which sells all natural and non-toxic bath and beauty products. Make sure to finish off your time exploring with a visit to Pappy & Harriet’s, the area’s iconic roadhouse, for some BBQ and live music.

Try a Famous Date Shake, Coachella Valley

Date palms were first introduced to California’s Coachella Valley from the Middle East in the early 1900s. Since then, date farming took off in the area and with that the region’s famous date shakes were born.

This addicting sweet treat is worth a try if you’re traveling through places like Indio, Palm Springs or their surrounding desert towns. I fell in love with this concoction so much on my first try that I’ll often recreate them at home when I’m having a craving.

Some favorite spots to get one include: Shields Date Garden in Indio, Hadley Fruit Orchard in Cabazon, or Great Shakes right in downtown Palm Springs.

Visit the Top Gun House, Oceanside

Fans of the 1986 film Top Gun will love visiting the historic house featured in the movie, now restored and sitting along the coast in Oceanside.

The best part is that this famous building has been transformed into a pie shop called High Pie, which serves the most delicious mini hand pies in flavors like apple, cherry and blueberry. The pies also happen to be gluten-free too! After grabbing a pie, head up to the rooftop at the Mission Pacific Hotel for a cocktail with stunning ocean views.

Integratron, Joshua Tree

If you’re making your way through Joshua Tree, you need to book a sound bath at the Integratron, a one-of-a-kind dome structure from the 1950s that was built with the highest quality acoustics in mind.

After years of having this place on my list, I finally was able to snag sound bath tickets last year and it was the most incredible one I’ve ever experienced. Facilitators use large crystal bowls to create vibrations that resonate through the dome’s acoustics and it’s deeply relaxing. Book tickets in advance as they fill up quick!

Bart’s Books, Ojai

Ojai’s Bart’s Books is the largest outdoor bookstore in the world, with shelves spilling out into courtyards, becoming one with the surrounding plant life.

Founded in 1964, this place is a book lover’s dream, carrying everything from rare first editions to $1 paperbacks. The store runs on an honor system for after-hours browsing—you can literally leave coins in a coffee can to pay. If you’re traveling through the spiritual town of Ojai, this pit stop is a must.

Best Things to Do in Southern California for Art and Architecture Lovers

Salvation Mountain

If you’ve ever seen the movie Into the Wild, then you’ll probably recognize this technicolor art installation in the desert near Slab City that’s one of the most unique places to visit in California.

Crafted by Leonard Knight over the course of many decades, Salvation Mountain is made from adobe, straw, and countless layers of colorful paint. It’s become an internationally recognized folk art site, but it’s quite an adventure to get to as there isn’t much around in the area. If you’re feeling adventurous, try to time your visit with sunrise or sunset when the light is most magical.

Noah Purifoy’s Outdoor Desert Museum, Joshua Tree

Perfectly on brand for Joshua Tree’s quirky vibe, the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Museum is maybe one of the weirdest places to visit in Southern California. Noah Purifoy was an artist and activist who turned discarded materials into powerful, large-scale sculptures—and they’re all on view at his outdoor museum which is totally free to visit.

Many of the pieces were created in response to social and political issues of the time, and it’s a fascinating place to explore.

Galleta Meadows, Anza Borrego State Park

Not exactly something you’d expect in the middle of the desert, Galleta Meadows is a series of more than 130 massive metal sculptures created by the artist Ricardo Breceda.

If you’re visiting Anza Borrego State Park (which I highly recommend in spring when the wildflowers bloom), then Galleta Meadows is a must-visit. The sculptures are scattered across the desert floor, so you can make a mini-safari of it, driving from one surprising artwork to the next. The creatures range from prehistoric mammoths to a 350-foot-long serpent (pictured above).

Robolights, Palm Springs

Palm Springs has no shortage of quirky art, but Robolights takes the cake. This extensive art installation made from recycled materials began as artist Kenny Irwin’s home holiday display and has since grown into an immersive wonderland of robots, Christmas paraphernalia, and glowing lights.

We were able to set up an appointment to visit here by contacting Kenny directly even though some sources say it is closed to the public. Just note that while it’s free to visit, he pitches visitors strongly at the end of the tour on purchasing some art.

Take an Ocean-Inspired Resin Art Class, San Diego

If you want to take home the ultimate souvenir from SoCal that’s been made with love, then you need to book a classic with Art Magic in San Diego. In the class, you’ll learn how to use epoxy resin to swirl together sea-blue hues and sandy textures to create your own charcuterie board or art piece.

Hollyhock House, Los Angeles

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1920s, Hollyhock House is one of the most iconic architectural homes in Los Angeles and is open to the public for tours.

Built for oil heiress Aline Barnsdall, it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important Los Angeles landmark. Inside, you’ll find Wright-designed furniture and unique design details that show off his forward-thinking approach. Book a self-guided tour here.

Palm Springs Architecture Tour

You can’t visit Palm Springs without taking in some of its iconic mid-century modern design and architecture. While you’ll undoubtedly witness it just by being in the area, this Modernism Architecture and Bike Tour is a fun way to explore the area on wheels while learning about the town’s architectural history.

You’ll discover iconic homes and neighborhoods famous for their mid-century design while hearing Old Hollywood tales woven in.

‘Transmission’ Sculpture, Joshua Tree

This goddess-like roadside sculpture looks more like it belongs at Burning Man than along a desert road in Joshua Tree. The towering piece was created by artist Daniel Popper and is made from concrete, steel and dichroic tiles. Standing 32 feet high, the art piece is meant to symbolize the connection between earth and sky.

While the sculpture is on private property, you can view it by driving on Highway 62 (Twentynine Palms Highway) and turning onto Sunfair Road where there is a turnout for public viewing. Important: Please do not trespass beyond the fencing as this is private property of the Mojave Moon Ranch.

Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Southern California

Treasure Island Beach, Laguna Beach

Located below the Montage Laguna Beach, Treasure Island is one of the most picturesque beaches in Orange County, featuring dramatic cliffs, swaying palms, and unique hidden caves that can be explored at low tide. It’s a popular beach in Laguna for swimming, tidepooling, photo shoots or even just a coastal stroll along the boardwalk up top.

To access the beach, head down on the ramp via the Montage Resort.

Balboa Park, San Diego

San Diego’s top landmark recently received a $28M renovation to its Botanical Building and it couldn’t be a better time to visit. Of course, beyond the Botanical Building you can find many other sites to explore across the park’s 1200 acres including museums, gardens, gorgeous Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, and the San Diego Zoo.

Plan to spend at least a half day here exploring and note that while overall acess to the park is free, each individual attraction and museum has its own admission fees.

Crystal Cove State Beach, Newport Beach

Crystal Cove is one of the last unspoiled stretches of coastline in Orange County with 3.2 miles of beach to explore. Since it’s protected within a state park, there’s also hiking and biking trails and plenty to do on a day trip including swimming, surfing and exploring tide pools.

If you want to stay overnight, you can book one of the historic 1930s beach cottages in the area for an extra dose of California coast charm.

The Flower Fields, Carlsbad

Every spring, from March to May, the hills of Carlsbad transform into a sea of color when the Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers bloom at The Flower Fields, the area’s beloved springtime attraction. This is a beautiful spot for floral lovers and photographers to explore 55 acres of flowers in a rainbow of colors.

This is one of the best activities to do in California in spring and has become a local tradition; visitors can enjoy tractor rides, butterfly gardens, and a series of unique events that they host throughout the season. Make sure to book your tickets in advance.

Catalina Island

Want a Mediterranean escape without the jet lag? Catalina Island is the closest thing you’ll get in California and feels worlds away even though the ferry ride from the mainland is just about an hour long.

The island’s main town, Avalon, is filled with pastel-colored houses, quaint shops, and plenty of water sports, while Two Harbors (pictured above) is a bit more rugged and appealing for hiking and camping enthusiasts.

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Death Valley

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes near Stovepipe Wells in Death Valley are so otherworldly that they were used in three different Star Wars films to represent the desert planet Tatooine.

These dunes stretch for miles and are personally one of my favorite places to photograph in all of California. It can get extremely hot here, so it’s best to visit at sunrise or golden hour when temperatures cool down—plus, the shadows on the dunes here are the most beautiful at this time of day.

Mission and Rose Garden, Santa Barbara

If you’re driving through Santa Barbara County, a visit to the Mission and it’s adjacent rose garden is a must for a mix of history and natural beauty. The Santa Barbara Mission is one of California’s most iconic landmarks and is a stunning display of Spanish Colonial architecture while preserving the history of the Franciscan missionaries.

The Rose Garden just across the lawn features over 1,500 rose bushes and is a popular gathering place for locals and special events. It’s a beautiful place for a stroll or picnic after you’ve toured the Mission.

Alabama Hills, Lone Pine

Imagine the alien-like boulders of Joshua Tree National Park combined with dramatic mountain peaks and you’ve got yourself the most perfect California landscape: Alabama Hills.

This favorite camping hotspot near Lone Pine is famous for its cinematic history—hundreds of movies and commercials have been filmed here, especially along the scenic Movie Road where whimsical rock formations are backdropped by the Sierra Nevada.

You can visit on a day trip here, but I highly recommend camping overnight for incredible stargazing, just make sure to grab a free permit with the Bureau of Land Management before your visit.

Best Viewpoints to Visit in Southern California

Keller Peak Lookout Tower, Big Bear

A hidden gem for catching sunsets, the Keller Peak Lookout Tower offers the perfect perch to view miles and miles of the San Bernardino Mountains and surrounding wilderness. There is a long 12 mile hike to reach here, but there was also a paved road that offered direct access to the lookout.

Unfortunately, the road leading to this gorgeous sunset spot in Big Bear was damaged by a fire in 2024, but is set to reopen in the near future. Make sure to check AllTrails and other sites for reopening news before visiting.

Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles

Perched on Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory offers some of the best views you can find of downtown LA, all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Of course, coming here for the Observatory itself is reason enough to visit; they’ve got fascinating astronomy exhibits and public telescopes to check out.

However, I think it’s the panoramic views especially at sunset that are truly the selling point of a visit here. Entry is free, making it one of LA’s best budget-friendly attractions. Just arrive early to find parking if you plan on visiting for sunset.

Zabriskie Point, Death Valley National Park

Probably my favorite spot in Death Valley (and that’s saying a lot because there are a TON of stunning places in the park), Zabriskie Point is absolutely jaw-dropping during golden hour and sunset. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Death Valley for good reason, but as the light dips lower the badlands light up in dreamy shades of gold and red, creating a landscape that honestly looks like a painting.

Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles

One of the most iconic things to do in all of California, no trip to LA feels complete without getting up close to the Hollywood Sign. Sure, it’s touristy—but it’s one of those things that’s totally worth doing at least once in your life.

There are several trails that can take you up to the Hollywood Sign, but the Mt. Hollywood Trail is one of the most accessible. Reaching the top gives you a unique behind-the-sign perspective with panoramic city views.

If you’d rather let someone else guide you, here are a few amazing ways to explore the Hollywood Sign with a local expert:

• Mulholland Trail Horseback Riding Tour: Get unforgettable views of the Hollywood Sign on horseback.
• Hike the Front AND Back of the Hollywood Sign: This is the affordable hiking tour I took and our guide was full of historic knowledge about LA that I never knew before!
• Hollywood Sign Tour with Comedians and Dogs: In what is probably the most LA tour ever, this Hollywood Sign tour is led by professional comedians and their dogs to give you a dose of cuteness and laughter as you make your way to LA’s iconic landmark.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Take Palm Springs’ famous rotating tram car to the top of Mt. San Jacinto State Park (at 8,500 feet!) for sweeping views over the desert. What’s especially cool about the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is that it’s not like most gondolas—instead, it rotates as you ride providing 360 degree views of the landscape.

At the top, you’ll find hiking trails, an observation deck, and some of the best views in California. Bonus: If you’re visiting during the hottest months (like I was), it’s a great way to escape the heat as temperatures up top can be 30° cooler than the desert below.

Torrey Pines Gliderport, La Jolla

Overlooking the cliffs of La Jolla, Torrey Pines Gliderport is where you can watch paragliders launch right off the bluffs. The views of the Pacific are incredible, and it’s also fun just to sit and watch the colorful sails drift through the sky.

Among the stunning hiking trails of Torrey Pines, the Gliderport offers a bar where you can order a cold brew and sit back to enjoy the view or take in a classic California sunset.

Fonts Point, Anza Borrego State Park

Often called the “Grand Canyon of California,” Fonts Point is a dramatic overlook above the Borrego Badlands within Anza Borrego State Park. A 4WD vehicle is required to reach it, but the panoramic views are worth the effort.

I’d especially recommend coming here for sunrise—we brought camping chairs to set up and enjoy the view and ended up being the only two people here as the sun rose over this otherworldly ridged landscape.

Castle Rock Trail, Big Bear

Along with beach and desert landscapes, California is also home to plenty of lake towns—and Big Bear is one of the best to visit in Southern California. If you want to get some of the best views over the lake, head straight for the Castle Rock Trail which is a short but steep 2.9 mile out and back hike near Big Bear Lake.

The trail rewards hikers with both mountain and lake views and is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves blaze with color. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes as the trail is quite rocky.

Awesome Free Things to Do in Southern California

Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens, Encinitas

Perched on a bluff in Encinitas, in North County San Diego, Swami’s Meditation Gardens is one of the most peaceful coastal spots in SoCal. The free entry gardens are filled with tropical plants, koi ponds, and benches for quiet reflection where you’ll often find people in meditation.

Since moving to this part of California, I’ve visited here several times and it’s always a tranquil spot to stroll, meditate or just enjoy the view of surfers from above.

Annie’s Canyon Trail, Solana Beach

You’d never guess that there is a slot canyon right in Solana Beach, which makes this unsuspecting trail even more special.

The short 2.3 mile loop features narrow sandstone walls and a ladder to reach the overlook over San Elijo Lagoon, making it a unique hike in SoCal that shouldn’t be missed if you’re traveling through North County San Diego. It’s best done in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures.

La Jolla Cove, La Jolla

I recently got to experience this San Diego gem for the first time, and it was a great free and entertaining activity at sunset before my husband and I went for dinner in La Jolla.

Especially if you love sea lions, La Jolla Cove is one of the best places to see them in SoCal—and you’ll find many lounging on the rocks, barking and playing with each other. They’re endlessly entertaining to watch, but keep a respectful distance—they’re wild animals and can be unpredictable if approached.

LACMA “Urban Light” Installation, Los Angeles

If you’re looking for Instagrammable landmarks, then look no further than Chris Burden’s Urban Light installation at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).

The grid of 202 restored street lamps make for fun and endlessly creative photo ops, and they’re especially dreamy at night when they’re all lit up. While there is an admission fee to visit LACMA, the lamp posts are free to visit on the outside grounds of the museum.

Venice Beach Boardwalk

As a local who lived near the Venice Boardwalk for over a decade, trust me when I say this area is free entertainment at its finest. Between street performers, skateboarders, art vendors, murals, and oceanfront cafes, there’s plenty to pique your curiosity at this LA locale, and it’s the perfect place to get a taste of the range of personality that makes Venice Beach tick.

Plus, Venice Beach itself is one of the best beaches in Southern California.

I’ll never forget the very first time my brother took me to the Venice Boardwalk as a kid and we witnessed an MTV dating show filming, with cast members in full 70s garb and rollerskates; you truly never know what you’re going to find at the Venice Boardwalk.

Montecito Hot Springs

Hidden in the hills above Santa Barbara, Montecito Hot Springs started as a local secret but have been getting more and more popular for their bright milky blue natural pools that vary in temperature as they cascade down the mountainside. They’re free to soak in, but go early (before 8 AM) as they’ve become very popular and neighborhood parking is limited.

To reach the hot springs, you’ll need to start at the Hot Springs Trailhead on East Mountain Drive and follow the 2.5 mile out and back trail. I wouldn’t expect to have the springs to yourself given their popularity, but they’re still a relaxing hidden gem in Southern California.

Fun Things to Do in Southern California for Couples

Spa Day at Omni La Costa Resort, Carlsbad

The Omni la Costa Resort in Carlsbad is known for its world-class spa, which is the largest resort spa in Southern California, and it just got a fresh renovation in 2024.

It’s a great spot for a weekend getaway or for a spa day, as they have a number of treatment options like couples massages, a dry sauna, indoor whirlpool, Roman showers, steam room, and a co-ed lounge.

Descanso Beach Club, Catalina Island

For a Euro summer beach escape without leaving California, book a cabana at Descanso Beach Club. Beach clubs in Southern California are few and far between, so Catalina’s is a must-visit if you want to experience island life in the Golden State.

At Descanso Beach Club, guests can sip the island’s famous Buffalo Milk Cocktail, swim in crystal-clear water, and lounge in a private cabana. It’s also one of the only spots on the island where alcohol is allowed on the beach, giving it a festive yet laid-back vibe.

Urban Wine Trail, Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail is one of my favorite places to go wine tasting in the state, as all the tasting rooms are super laidback and everything is within walking distance making it easy to skip the driving.

With over 20 wineries and tasting rooms spread throughout several downtown neighborhoods, this is a must-add experience to your bucket list for wine lovers.

Go Hot Air Ballooning, Temecula

Few experiences are as romantic as watching the sunrise from a hot air balloon drifting over Temecula’s rolling vineyards—and most tours include champagne, make it an even more special experience.

My first hot air ballooning experience ever was in Temecula and not only was it a super exciting experience itself, but you get the added bonus of seeing a new vantage point above Temecula’s most stunning vineyards. It’s an early wake-up call, but absolutely worth it for the unforgettable memories. Book your hot air balloon tour here.

Go Glamping at Postcard Cabins, Big Bear

There’s a reason I’ve stayed at various Postcard Cabins locations four times now—they offer stylish and rustic modern accommodations that are some of the best glamping in California.

Think all the fun of camping with small luxuries of a hotel (like a cozy bed and shower). For couples who love nature, a cozy cabin stay at their location in Big Bear is ideal for disconnecting, reconnecting with one another and enjoying the great outdoors. You can read my full Postcard Cabins Big Bear review here for more details.

See a Show at Walt Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles

Frank Gehry’s architectural masterpiece Disney Hall is home to the LA Philharmonic, and for those looking for a unique activity in Los Angeles this one is a must. The acoustics are phenomenal, and catching a concert here makes for a memorable date night that combines fun architecture, culture, and world-class music all in one.

Vintage VW Bus Wine Tour, Malibu

Ever dreamed of taking a vintage VW bus for a spin down the Southern California coast? This experience feels very quintessential California and is a unique way to explore the Malibu coast area of Los Angeles. The tour takes guests to a local winery while cruising along the coast in retro style. Book your vintage VW excursion.

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