13 Easily Driveable Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

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Looking for the best weekend getaways from Los Angeles that are an easy drive away? I’ve got you covered.

Seeing as that I became a California local in my 20s (I’m 38 now), I know a thing or two about perfecting the ultimate LA escape.

As much as I love living in the city, sometimes it can start to feel a little claustrophobic, and there is nothing better than taking weekend getaways from Los Angeles for a much needed restore and refresh.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat to the desert, a tasting experience in wine country, or a hiking trip in the mountains, I’m sharing 13 ideas for easy escapes from the city that will make you feel a world away.

In this post, I’m breaking down all the best weekend trips from LA—and the best part is, most of them are all within just three hours of the city!

The Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

Laguna Beach

Though such a short distance away from LA, Orange County is a true gem when it comes to a picture perfect day at the beach. With 30 different stunning beaches and coves sprinkled along the Laguna coast, you can explore something new each time you visit.

Between the quaintest, laidback restaurants and shops that line the pristine coastline, to the seemingly perfect waves that barrel in for surfers, Laguna Beach is a haven for Angelenos looking for a quick escape to paradise.

The Details

• Distance from LA – 1.5 Hours
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – Surfers and beach babes.

Where to Stay in Laguna Beach

1. Laguna Beach House – Chic, family-friend, and surf inspired, this hotel sits on one of the most lively streets in Laguna Beach. While the property doesn’t actually touch the sand, it does offer ocean views from some rooms and Heisler Park coastal walking path is just a few minutes walk away. Read my full Laguna Beach House review.
2. Hotel Joaquin – Hotel Joaquin offers a classy and elegant atmosphere made for design lovers. It’s pricier than Laguna Beach, but still remains relatively affordable for a beachside vacay. Spend your time here relaxing in a cabana by the pool while you sip on a martini from their popular bar, Saline.
3. Montage Laguna Beach – For the ultimate luxury stay in Laguna, nothing beats the Montage with its epic pool overlooking the crashing waves.

What Not to Miss in Laguna Beach

• Victoria Beach – This popular beach is known for its iconic pirate tower! Make sure to check the tide schedule as it can be challenging (and dangerous) to get to the pirate tower during high tide times.
• Crystal Cove State Park – One of the prettiest beaches in the area in my opinion, Crystal Cove is a state park known for its expansive 3.2 miles of sand, but also offers activities like camping, hiking, and scuba diving. For an easy breezy day at the beach, this is a must.
• The Deck – Eating at The Deck feels like you’re dining right on a dock just inches away from the ocean. Make sure to enjoy a cocktail here as the sun sets.
• Top of the World – Officially known as Alta Laguna Park, Top of the World acts as a hike that provides sweeping coastal views of the surrounding Laguna area.  

Joshua Tree

For years I had heard people explain the “magic” of Joshua Tree, but it wasn’t until I visited myself that I truly understood what they meant. I’ve now been over 10 + times and it’s become one of my favorite getaways from Los Angeles.

This desert oasis home to Joshua Tree National Park is unlike any other place in the world, from the alien-like landscape, to the quirky local culture, to the peaceful energy you feel the second you turn onto the dusty desert roads.

The Details

• Distance from LA – 3 Hours
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – The free spirited adventurer.

Where to Stay

1. The Pioneertown Motel – This renovated western-style motel has been around since 1946 and sits adjacent to the famous western bar Pappy & Harriet’s. If you’re looking for unique accommodations to bring the desert vibes full circle, the Pioneertown Motel is your place.
2. Airbnb – While the hotel options in the area are limited, there is absolutely no shortage of fun and beautiful Airbnbs in Joshua Tree. There are so many fantastic and design-savvy options that the only trouble you’ll have when searching is choosing one!
3. Autocamp Joshua Tree – This upscale glamping park has fun airstreams and cabins to stay in along with amenities that are a step up from camping!

What Not to Miss in Joshua Tree

• Joshua Tree National Park – Whether you enjoy rock climbing and hiking, or would prefer to stay in the car and just take a drive through the desert, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-do for first time visitors. A few of my favorite areas in the park are Arch Rock and the Cholla Cactus Garden.
• Pioneertown – Built as an Old Western movie set in the 1940s, Pioneertown is a fun area to walk around and grab that iconic quirky Instagram pic. Plus, some of the building house actual shops you can peruse before hitting the bar for a drink next door at Pappy & Harriet’s.
• Pappy + Harriet’s – Probably the most iconic venue to visit in Joshua Tree, this BBQ joint has been serving up everything from fried pickles and craft beers to live music by the likes of Paul McCartney and Rufus Wainwright since it was founded in 1982. This is the place to be for a more social outing in Joshua Tree, but keep in mind it’s closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Los Alamos 

While there are so many destinations throughout Santa Barbara wine country that act as incredible getaways from Los Angeles, Los Alamos has to be my favorite.

For a one street town with a mix of Old Western and retro vibes, Los Alamos packs quite a punch with its aesthetic appeal and incredible food and wine scene. The local tasting rooms here have an inviting, laid back atmosphere, yet some of the best wine I’ve tasted in California.

If you’re looking for that easy weekend trip from LA that requires minimal planning (a hotel and dinner reservation at most), then you’ll love Los Alamos. Read my full guide to Los Alamos, California here

The Details

• Distance from LA – 2.5 Hours 
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – The laidback wine lover.

Where to Stay

• The Alamo Motel – Inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe’s home in Abiquiú, The Alamo Motel is a trendy and retro-chic place to stay in the heart of Los Alamos’ wine country. It’s literally within walking distance to everything downtown and you can even partake in some wine tasting at their on-site bar, Bar Alamo.
• Skyview Los Alamos – Previously a roadside motel, Skyview Los Alamos is now a boutique accommodation that has turned leisure into luxury. With a large pool and restaurant on site, you could check in here and never leave, but I recommend taking one of their free Linus bike rentals to head into town for a glass of local vino. 

What Not to Miss in Los Alamos

• Bell’s – With an award-winning wine list and a French-inspired menu, Bell’s is the perfect spot for an evening dinner in Los Alamos (reservation required).
• Bodega – Enjoy the outdoors at Bodega’s beautiful and spacious open-air wine and beer garden featuring fire pits, bocce ball, a greenhouse and more.
• Pico Restaurant – Pico Restaurant is one of Los Alamos’ top restaurants housed in an old general store. It focuses on innovative, local ingredients and partners with farmers dedicated to sustainable and humane practices. Don’t come here without ordering the truffle fries—they’re life changing.
• A Tribute to Grace Winery – Specializing in different expressions of Grenache, A Tribute to Grace Winery offers a petite yet beautiful tasting room for guests to experience authentic, 100% Grenache wine. If you’re not super familiar with Grenache but love the lightness of Pinot Noir (like me), then you’ll adore this place.

Ojai

Located a little over an hour northwest of Los Angeles, Ojai sits within Ventura County in a valley of the Topatopa Mountains. In recent years, Ojai has become a more popular refuge for individuals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Whether you’re looking for a meditation retreat or simply wanting to have some space to soak in all of the positive energy that is present in such a peaceful place like Ojai, this is the ultimate rejuvenation vacation. 

The Details

• Distance from LA – 1.5 Hours
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – The spiritual seeker.

Where to Stay

1. Ojai Valley Inn – Surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and lush greenery (including a well-manicured golf course), the Ojai Valley Inn provides guests with the perfect amount of relaxation and seclusion in this peaceful valley. This is undoubtedly the best hotel in Ojai.
2. Capri Motel – With a more mid-century modern feel, the Capri Motel blends simplicity and design-savvy to perfectly capture a relaxed atmosphere made for creative Angelenos looking to escape the city life. 

What Not to Miss in Ojai

• Take a Stroll Downtown – Ojai’s main strip has plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops selling everything from olive olive and homewares to new agey crystals and tarot card decks. Take an unhurried stroll here during your weekend getaway from LA to get a feel for what the local scene in Ojai is all about.
• Bart’s Books – For the bookworm that lives inside each one of us, Bart’s Books is the ultimate paradise. This outdoor bookstore is unlike any other you’ve seen.
• Farmer and the Cook – Soak in all the good vibes and energy at this organic market meets cafe and smoothie bar. This was my favorite meal during our stay in Ojai—highly recommend the Lila’s Cheezy Gordita!

Sequoia National Park

The iconic redwoods are a must-see for both California locals and tourists alike, and hiking through Sequoia National Park will leave you breathless and in awe.

Despite knowing the size of the legendary sequoias before seeing them, I was still blown away by their towering beauty. There’s nothing quite like walking amongst these giants to make you feel deep appreciation for nature.

Sequoia National Park is absolutely stunning in summer, but I think it’s also one of the most beautiful places to visit in California in winter as well!

The Details

• Distance from LA – 4 Hours
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – Hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Where to Stay

• Wuksachi Lodge – For those wanting to stay directly in the park, Wuksachi Lodge immerses guests in the majestic sequoia forest, providing an experience to connect with nature that is unlike any other.
• Airbnb in Visalia – If you’d rather remain in less secluded accommodations during your weekend getaway from Los Angeles, you can choose from one of the many convenient and cute Airbnbs in Visalia, which is one of the closest towns outside of the park. This is recommended if you want more restaurant options in the mornings and evenings before exploring the National Park, but it does require more driving.

What Not to Miss in Sequoia

• The Tunnel Log – The tunnel log is perhaps the most well-known and famous site in all of the Sequoias. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique drive through! 
• General Sherman’s Tree – This massive 2,300 -2,700 year old tree is a must see for any nature lover. 
• The Congress Trail – With more than 3 miles of path, the Congress Trail is a stunning and popular hike that is essential for first time visitors.

Paso Robles

Paso Robles might be a lesser-known wine destination in California, but it’s just as amazing in my book. This small yet vibrant town curates a very special experience for visitors through its emphasis on good food and good drink with over 200 wineries to explore.

This weekend getaway from Los Angeles is perfect for wine lovers that don’t want any of the pretentiousness that comes with other wine destinations.

The Details

• Distance from LA – 3.5 Hours
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – The wine connoisseur.

Where to Stay

1. Geneseo Inn – Geneseo Inn is a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel that houses guests inside reused yet luxurious shipping crates. Both an innovative and modern take on accommodations, a stay here will make your trip to wine country feel like a unique experience from the moment you wake up in the morning to the second you lay your head on the pillow at night.
2. The Stables Inn – For those wanting to stay close to all that downtown Paso Robles has to offer, The Stables Inn is a delightful, dog-friendly hotel inspired by the charm of horses, riders and whitewashed stables.
3. The Trailer Pond – Another unique stay in Paso Robles is offered at The Trailer Pond. This 130-acre vineyard offers guests the privilege of staying in an adorable, vintage tinker tin trailer! 

What Not to Miss in Paso Robles

• The Bruce Munro Light at Sensorio Exhibit – Depending on the time of the year that you visit, the Bruce Munro Light at Sensorio Exhibit is a magical experience that will truly light up your trip! It’s comprised of thousands and thousands of stemmed spheres lit by fiber optics that change colors against the nighttime landscape.
• Book a Wine Tour – With so many different tasting rooms and vineyards to choose from, setting up a wine tour ensures that you’ll hit all the best spots (and that you’ll have a designated driver while doing so)!
• Daou Winery – Sitting on top of a stunning mountain with killer views, Daou Winery is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places to sip on some vino in Paso Robles. 
• Hatch Rotisserie – Enjoy dinner and drinks at this popular Paso Robles staple. Just be sure to book a table in advance, they fill up quickly!

Temecula

Located a bit north of San Diego, Temecula is an area of inland SoCal that has managed to make a name for itself as a prime vacation destination. For those looking for a wine-centered trip with a no-fuss ambiance, Temecula serves up the best of both worlds, plus it will transport you out of California and into Tuscany.

If you’re not into wine, hot air ballooning is another iconic way to enjoy the Temecula landscape. Every morning at sunrise these gentle modes of transport dot the horizon, giving both those in the sky or on the ground a fun way to experience the beauty of the area.

Read my full guide to Temecula, California here.

The Details

• Distance from LA – 2 Hours
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – The adventurous wine lover.

Where to Stay: 

1. Carter Estate Winery and Resort – The Carter Estate Winery and Resort offers private, Mediterranean-inspired bungalows to guests along with an on-site winery. This is where I personally stayed during my trip and I loved stepping out onto our back patio each morning to witness the hot air balloons grazing by, literally feet away.
2. The New Inn – Located on 25 acres of prime Temecula vineyard, The New Inn is one of the more modern accommodation offerings in the area. Book one of their luxurious villas for a relaxing stay with beautiful views.
3. Ponte Vineyard Inn – For those wanting to splurge, the Ponte Vineyard Inn boasts award-winning accommodations and cuisine at their 90-room property.

What Not to Miss in Temecula

• Hot Air Balloon Ride – Take a walk (or fly) on the wild side with a stunning hot air balloon ride over the vineyards of Temecula at sunrise. I went with Magical Adventure Balloons for my experience.
• Wine Tasting – Set aside at least a few hours for wine tasting and vineyard hopping—your options are literally endless! If you’re a red wine lover like me, don’t miss Wiens Family Cellars.
• Old Town Temecula – From antique shopping to museums, there is plenty to see as you explore Old Town Temecula.
• Small Barn – Book a table at Small Barn in Old Town, where Top Chef alum Angelo Sosa is creating dishes like a roasted beet salad with Temecula valley honey and seared octopus with a spicy passionfruit dressing. This was my favorite meal in Temecula, hands down.

Death Valley

While its name might sound misleading, Death Valley National Park is a wildly alive desert that will shock and awe with its jaw-dropping beauty.

It’s a bit further away than some of the other getaways on this list, but a trip here can still be achieved in a long weekend. Plus, many top sites in Death Valley are relatively close together, so you’ll be able to fit a lot into a 48-hour window.

If you’re camping, this can be one of the most affordable getaways from Los Angeles, but I recommend visiting in late Fall to early Spring before temperatures hit over 100 degrees—this is one of the hottest places on Earth!

Read my full guide to Death Valley here.

The Details

• Distance from LA – 5 Hours
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – Outdoor explorers and photography enthusiasts.

Where to Stay

1. Camp – There is no better way to immerse yourself in the great outdoor experience of Death Valley than to simply set up camp for your sleeping accommodations. Go to sleep under the serenity of the moon and wake up with the glory of the sun! You can find a great overview of all the different camping options here.
2. Oasis at Death Valley – For those less inclined to rough it during your weekend getaway from LA, the Oasis at Death Valley provides the perfect touch of luxury for you to lay your head in bliss after a long day hiking and driving through Death Valley’s expansive terrain. When it comes to where to stay in Death Valley, the Oasis is the most luxurious and comfortable option hands down.

What Not to Miss in Death Valley

• Badwater Basin – At 282 ft. below sea level, Badwater Basin is the lowest point on the entire North American continent. 
• Zabriskie Point – This unique lookout point is one of the most photographed places in Death Valley. Be sure to check it out at sunrise for a stunning scene!
• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – This vast area featuring 100 ft. sand dunes is perfect for trying out some sand-boarding or sharpening your photography skills as the quickly changing light casts unique shadows on the cascading dunes.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a versatile vacation spot where you can choose your own adventure. Whether that means pool parties, a spa escape, getting rowdy at a drag brunch, or doing some serious mid-century furniture shopping, the world is your oyster.

This desert locale is one of the most popular getaways from Los Angeles for a reason, and it’s not just because of the easy 2.5 hours driving distance.

It’s also one of the most LGBTQ-friendly destinations in the country, featuring plenty of gay bars and Pride events for all to enjoy. If you’re looking for a carefree vibe where the sun is always shining then a Palm Springs weekend getaway is calling your name.

The Details

• Distance from LA – 2.5 Hours
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – Sun-seekers and poolside loungers

Where to Stay

• Sparrows Lodge – Sparrows Lodge offers modern yet rustic lodging for those looking to soak up the sun in style. The 1950s resort has both poolside and garden rooms that are quite spacious, and the routine misters are a game-changer during the hottest days in the desert. 
• ARRIVE Palm Springs – For those wanting to hang by the pool all weekend, ARRIVE Hotel provides guests with a stunning pool and bar that you’ll be glued to Friday-Sunday. The vibe here is classic Palm Springs to a tee.
• Korakia Pensione – Korakia Pensione is a romantic, Moroccan-meets-Mediterranean styled oasis that is an Instagrammable dream and perfect for couples. This is hands down one of the most beautiful hotels in all of Palm Springs, and while it may be a tad more expensive than other options, it is beyond worth it. 

What Not to Miss in Palm Springs

• Palm Springs Art Museum – Take a break from the heat by stepping into the cool and modern Palm Springs Art Museum and checking out their latest exhibits. 
• Aerial Tramway – The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world, making it worth a visit for those looking for something different to do in the desert.
• Go Vintage and Decor Shopping – Downtown Palm Springs has no shortage of vintage shops and stores hawking all the mid-century modern goods. If you want to blow some cash on unique treasures to take home, you’re in the right place.
• Drag Brunch – For a fun debaucherous time and something that’s quintessential Palm Springs, enjoy a drag show with a side of bottomless mimosas. Book your tickets here.

San Luis Obispo

While San Luis Obispo might not be at the top of many people’s list when it comes to planning weekend trips from LA, it should be!

This small city of 50,000 is just 15 minutes from the beach and is a central California dream that provides stylish accommodations, great eateries, and easy access to a ton of gems up and down the coast.

The Details

• Distance from LA – 3.5 Hours
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – The small town lover.

Where to Stay:

1. Hotel SLO – Hotel SLO is an urban resort with a modern feel that takes you to the heart of the city. In easy proximity to the nearby rolling hills, beaches, and restaurants downtown, you have it all at your fingertips at Hotel SLO.
2. San Luis Creek Lodge – Located right in the center of downtown SLO, San Luis Creek Lodge is a convenient spot to rest your head during a visit to this beloved Central Coast town. In collaboration with renowned interior designer Nina Freudenberger, the property is a design-lovers dream, mixing an elegant farmhouse style with seaside bohemian touches.  

What Not to Miss in San Luis Obispo

• Montaña de Oro State Park – The name Montaña de Oro State Park literally means “Mountain of Gold”, which perfectly describes the blooming wildflowers that take over this state park every year. This is the perfect place for a morning coastal walk or day trip out of downtown SLO.
• Morro Bay – Best known for its massive Morro Rock, Morro Bay is a special little town right on the coast of San Luis Obispo. While it is small, they have some of the freshest seafood on the central coast and I love spending sunset at Morro Bay Beach to watch the surfers dance along the glimmering waves.

Encinitas 

This well-known beach town in the North County area of San Diego is one of the many great getaways from Los Angeles for those looking for a change of scenery without straying too far from the beach.

Encinitas isn’t a place you go to check off a to-do list of attractions and lookouts. There’s very little of that here. Instead, plan to take it easy and enjoy wellness activities like surfing, beach walks, or a yoga class.

The Details

• Distance from LA – 2 Hours
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – Surfers and casual beach-goers.

Where to Stay 

• Twelve Senses Retreat – Twelve Senses Retreat is a bed and breakfast that completely embodies the vibe and atmosphere of Encinitas. By putting an emphasis on wellness with offerings like organic home-cooked meals by the owner, yoga and massage, Twelve Senses truly is the best place to rest and restore in this beloved beach town.
• Inn at Moonlight Beach – This hidden gem boutique hotel is WELL certified and built throughout a biodynamic farm, with programming and amenities that are thoughtfully crafted for guests’ wellbeing.

What Not to Miss in Encinitas

• Eat at the Waverly – Settle in for lunch at the beautifully designed Waverly cafe for some innovative yet classic food and coffee.
• Moonlight State Beach – This wide state beach is perfect both for children and adults and offers an array of activities from fishing to swimming to surfing. 
• Go for a Surf Session – Encinitas is known for having great surf, so if that’s your thing, pick up your board and paddle out! 
• Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens – These stunning botanical gardens overlooking the ocean are a must for a morning coffee stroll.

Catalina Island

Out of all of the available getaways from Los Angeles, Catalina Island is without a doubt the most unique of them all. This small yet stunning island always seems to transport me out of California and instead to somewhere reminiscent of the Mediterranean beaches in Europe.

With its bright blue coastline and cliffside views, Catalina Island is one weekend trip from LA that will make you feel worlds away from home.

Plus, it’s got some of the most incredible ocean-centric activities within close proximity to LA—think scuba diving, snorkeling, glass bottom boats and more. Check out my complete guide to Catalina Island here.

The Details

• Distance from LA – About 2 Hours (depending on ferry timing)
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – Europhiles and underwater lovers.

Where to Stay

1. Hotel Atwater – Located right in the heart of Avalon, Hotel Atwater is a freshly renovated hotel with a rich history and inviting atmosphere. They even offer a complimentary glass of champagne every evening before bed. This is the best place to stay in Catalina on the Avalon side!
2. Banning House Lodge – The Banning House Lodge is a charming bed and breakfast that overlooks Two Harbors on the less touristy side of Catalina. With sweeping views and peaceful accommodations, you’ll want to camp up here with a book and never leave.

What Not to Miss in Catalina

• Descanso Beach Club – Snag a cabana or a couple of lounge chairs and enjoy a fun day at Catalina’s most happening spot, Descanso Beach Club.
• Go Hiking – Catalina’s rolling hills and cliffs offer some of the best hiking trails in California.
• Try a Buffalo Milk Cocktail – While lounging beachside at Descanso (or any of the bars on Catalina for that matter), be sure to try one of the island’s famous Buffalo Milk Cocktails—it’s the “official” drink of Catalina. I promise, it tastes way better than it may sound!

Big Bear Lake

From the fragrant pine trees to the adorable cabins that line the lake, Big Bear transports SoCal locals out of our West Coast state of mind and into mountain town country in the best way.

Craving a big slice of nature? Big Bear is perfect for kayaking, boating, skiing, or simply lounging around as you breathe in the crisp mountain air. 

The Details

• Distance from LA – 2.5 Hours
• Who This Trip is Perfect For – Wilderness worshippers.

Where to Stay

1. Postcard Cabins (Formerly Getaway House) – With tiny cabins perched in the woods near Big Bear, Postcard Cabins is Big Bear’s number one place to stay for the ultimate glamping experience. Explore nearly 60 acres of land and escape the stress of the city. 

What Not to Miss in Big Bear

• Eat Downtown – While the restaurants are somewhat limited, Big Bear’s downtown area The Village has some spots that are both fun and delicious. It’s especially great for grabbing a beer and sitting outside on one of the many patios.
• Explore the Hiking Trails – Whether you’re looking for an intense hike or leisurely stroll through the woods, Big Bear’s hiking trails have you covered. If you’re looking for something chill, Castle Rock Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the area; it’s a moderate 2.6 mile trail that offers beautiful views of the lake.
• Relax at Big Bear Lake – If the weather is warm enough, Big Bear Lake makes for a great time for kayaking, boating or even swimming!
• Go Skiing (In Winter) – During the winter months, you can expect to see a decent amount of snow atop Big Bear Mountain which makes for a great quick ski trip away from LA with friends.

Which of these getaways from Los Angeles would you head out on first? Let me know in the comments below!

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