solo day trips in southern california

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11 Solo Trips in California to Take at Least Once

Regardless of the route you choose to take, the Golden State’s freeways will lead you to some of the most iconic destinations in the world.

January 09, 2024

Embarking on a solo journey holds a captivating balance of challenge and reward, making it a tantalizing prospect for many. If you're on the brink of taking that leap, let this serve as your nudge towards adventure. Imagine setting your sights on a destination, fueling up, and letting your loved ones know you're embracing a bit of solitude for a weekend adventure. California's call to solo explorers is irresistible.

No matter which path you decide to explore, California's vast network of roads will guide you to some of the most renowned and breathtaking spots on the planet. Whether you're in pursuit of peaceful alone time or eager to immerse yourself in new experiences among new faces, California offers a diverse array of solo travel options to match your desires.

The Golden State's best solo travel destinations

You can’t go wrong with a scenic one-day drive along the Big Sur coastline. Views, hikes, beautiful campgrounds, and charming small towns—the perfect long weekend in Big Sur is best enjoyed alone. While on this solo getaway in California , stop by Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for hikes that are short and sweet. Once the last bits of light start to dim, book a quaint room in the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea to unwind at night.

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Want to feel like you’ve been transported to a whole different country on your solo trip in California? The charming small SoCal town of Solvang is the destination for you. Packed with unique Danish architecture, cool eateries, and quirky boutiques, exploring Solvang on a solo trip is a treat, to say the least. Spend your days biking around town and enjoying fresh pastries—and do it all with a Scandinavian flair. 

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an incredible destination for a weekend road trip no matter the time and occasion. If you’re someone who enjoys spending time in nature and engaging in outdoor recreation, Yosemite will be your best solo trip in California . Hike to stunning waterfalls , camp under towering trees, and enjoy breathtaking panoramas at every turn. If you find yourself planning another solo vacation to Yosemite before you even leave, don’t say we didn’t warn you.

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Enter your zip code, can't-miss solo trips in southern california.

Palm Springs

Architecture aficionados will love embarking on a solo getaway to Palm Springs. The mecca of mid-century modern architecture is abundant with cool free things to do that make it worth all the hype. Check in at a luxurious hotel, drive through iconic Palm Springs neighborhoods, unwind by the pool all day, every day. Treat yourself to the experience of solo travel in California you’ve always dreamed of.

Solo trips to Los Angeles

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is always a good idea when choosing a beach destination for a summer road trip in the Golden State. A quintessential SoCal destination—if you’re unsure about where to go on your solo travel in Los Angeles, make Venice Beach your first stop. Have some fun in the sun, stroll along the boardwalk, and shop till you drop at the many boutique stores. The sheer amount of amenities alone make Venice one of the best places to travel alone in California.

Solo trips to San Diego

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

San Diego is a foolproof spot for a classic SoCal weekend getaway. Whether you’re in the mood to go splashing around the area or check out its incredible downtown , this solo getaway in California is a must-do. One of the top things to do on your solo trip in San Diego is checking out its historic Old Town State Park.

Not only is the park extremely beautiful, but it also boasts epic features that date back to the 19th century. Check out the museums, stroll through the pathways, and enjoy a picnic al fresco for a quintessential San Diego experience.

Bay Area solo weekend getaways you'll always remember

The Presidio of San Francisco

An essential part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the 15,000-acre Presidio of San Francisco is full of history. There are 24 miles of hiking trails and 25 miles of biking paths at your disposal. A solo trip to this NorCal destination offers plenty to explore—vast open spaces and lush green forests to name a few.

Don’t forget your camera on this solo vacation; you’re going to want to snap some photos. Stroll along the coast at Baker Beach and enjoy expansive views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

There are plenty of ways to go about spending a day in Sausalito.  Just north of the Golden Gate Bridge, this scenic destination boasts miles of sunny coastlines, charming cafes, and trendy boutiques. Sausalito is so close to S.F. that you can combine the two to make one awesome solo getaway in California. Tour the artsy galleries, check out the main attractions, and embark on a houseboat tour for a solo vacation you’ll never forget.

Solo vacations in the rugged North

Napa Valley

If relaxing is high up on your travel to-do list, then Napa Valley is a solo road trip in California you should strongly consider. Hike, bike, eat, and treat yourself to a spa day on the solo weekend getaway in California you’ll remember forever. Whether you’re heading there for just a day or a full weekend, you have enough things to do in Napa that’ll leave you refreshed and rejuvenated.

Avenue of Giants

If you haven’t done so already,   the Avenue of Giants is a road trip you need to take —at least once. Drive through the towering redwoods, check out the landmarks along the way, and spend a day or two at family-owned hotels. Offering an unmatched experience you’ll cherish forever, this solo road trip is the one you’ve been waiting for. If you’ve be en seeking solitude and looking to reconnect with nature, this is one of the best places to travel alone in California.

Hidden Beach

The rugged coasts of Northern California have the ability to enchant anyone who lays an eye on them for the first time. Hidden Beach in Klamath is no exception. This secluded coastal treasure is the ultimate destination for travelers who like photography, hiking, and beach exploration. The dark gray sands, lack of crowds, and piles of driftwood make your solo trip in California feel straight out of a fantasy novel.

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Solo Female Travel California: 10 Best Places To Travel Alone In The Golden State

By Jessie Festa. This solo travel California guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for a solo female travel California guide that shares the best places to travel alone?

Then you’re in the right place!

Home to Hollywood, beautiful beaches, epic theme parks, more national parks than any other state, and an endless list of things to do and see, California is a top destination for solo travelers — especially as it offers so many different types of experiences.

Whether you’re looking for a solo beach vacation, hiking trip, wine country getaway, or urban escape, you’ll find it in The Golden State.

This also means it’s easy to plan a dream solo getaway, regardless of your timeline or even when you’re visiting, as California is a year-round destination.

Now, to help you make the most of your trip, I reached out to some of my favorite bloggers to ask them their suggestions for the best places to travel alone in California. Keep reading to discover their recommendations for the best solo trips in California – and I’ve also included my own top pick.

While this list of the best places to visit in California for solo travelers is not exhaustive, after reading it, you’ll have a solid starting point for mapping out a truly unforgettable California solo trip.

➡️ Safety Tip:   When traveling solo in California, it’s smart to pack  travel safety essentials . One top pick is the  She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include  Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments  and  Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves . 🚗 Getting Around:  Rent a car for your solo vacation in California? Check out  Discover Cars  to quickly compare your rental car options. Their comparison tool does the homework for you, and you can save up to 70% on your solo USA trip car rental by using their tool! 🏥  Travel Insurance:  SafetyWing  offers straightforward and comprehensive plans to make sure you’re covered in an emergecy – especially as US healthcare services are extremely expensive. 📞  Staying Connected:  If visiting from abroad, I highly recommend installing an  Airalo eSIM  on your phone.

Table of Contents

Confidently Enjoy Solo Female Travel In California [Free Course]

But first, before we discuss the top solo getaways in California , I invite you to grab a seat in my  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip and vacation alone
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to dive into the solo female travel guide .

Where To Travel Alone In California

California is one of the best places to travel alone in the United States ! And while you can find endless solo-friendly destinations around the state, there are a few that truly standout.

Whether you’re choosing one homebase or are looking to do a solo road trip , the following getaways are perfect for women traveling alone.

Traveling California alone ? Then I highly recommend driving Big Sur . You can visit this epic destination on its own or as part of a larger California road trip from Los Angeles (highly recommended!).

First of all, Big Sur is safe — though do make sure to drive carefully along the Pacific Coast Highway as the roads are very windy.

Speaking of the Pacific Coast Highway, there is so much to do and see along this route, particularly if you enjoy outdoor adventure travel . A few highlights include:

• Stopping at the numerous viewpoints, like Bixby Creek Bridge and Hurricane Point
• Hiking in the many state parks, like Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Julia Pfeiffer State Park (home to McWay Falls!)
• Having lunch with a gorgeous view at Nepenthe Restaurant
• Seeing seals from above at the Seal Beach Scenic Overlook
• Swimming and sunbathing at Pfeiffer Beach

Big Sur is also connected to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a quaint seaside city full of locally-owned shops, delicious restaurants, charming cafes, fairytale cottages, and almost 100 art galleries.

While there is clearly a ton to do in Big Sur, it’s common to visit as part of a solo road trip along the California coast and elsewhere around the state. Some of my personal top suggestions for other destinations to add to your solo California road trip itinerary include Paso Robles , Solvang , Sequoia National Park , and Yosemite National Park .

By Jessie from Jessie on a Journey

Big Sur Travel Resources : Click here for a list of top-rated Big Sur tours. Click here for a list of top-rated Big Sur hotels.

2. Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa is a beautiful city located in Northern California, about an hour north of San Francisco. It’s one of the top places to visit alone in California thanks to its great restaurants, beautiful beaches, memorable experiences, and wine tasting rooms around every corner.

Santa Rosa also has many activities for solo travelers to enjoy.

First of all, the heart of Santa Rosa — called Historic Railroad Square — is a great place for solo travelers to walk, do some shopping, and savor yummy restaurants. Check out Khoom Lanna Thai Cuisine for a delicious dinner and Nimble and Finn’s Handmade Ice Cream for a sweet treat after!

For nature adventures, solo travelers can hike at SugarLoaf Ridge State Park, take a short trip to Bodega Bay for a trek with cliff views, or spend the day at Trione-Annadel State Park where the wildflowers bloom beautifully in the spring.

Solo travelers can also experience an amazing safari jeep tour right in the middle of California at Safari West, also known as the Sonoma Serengeti.

To experience history in Santa Rosa, solo travelers can reserve tickets to the Charles M. Schulz Museum to learn about the creator of Peanuts , visit the Museum of Sonoma County, or tour the ruins of Jack London’s home.

For a more local experience, visit the certified farmer’s market on Sunday to grab brunch or shop for local produce.

Santa Rosa is also located in Sonoma County, which is the middle of wine country.  Solo travelers can visit family-owned wineries in the area, taste handcrafted wines, and enjoy some delicious food while supporting local businesses.

Solo travelers looking for a personalized experience can check out the family-owned Old World Winery where the grapes are stomped by foot and activated with native yeast fermentation.

For a more commercial but still amazing wine tasting experience, check out D’Argenzio Winery. Here you can taste wine from the barrels and enjoy lunch at the onsite restaurant.

The weather makes Santa Rosa a perfect destination for solo travelers, with high temperatures of 82°F and lows of 40°F. The best times to visit Santa Rosa are May and October, which is when temperatures are the most moderate.

With plenty to see and do, wonderful weather, and a friendly atmosphere, solo travelers will have a great experience in Santa Rosa!

By Pafoua from Her Wanderful World

Santa Rosa Travel Resources : Click here for a list of top-rated Santa Rosa tours. Click here for a list of top-rated Santa Rosa hotels.

3. The Redwood National and State Parks

The Redwood National and State Parks area is one of the best places to travel solo in California, as it offers a rare opportunity to be immersed among the redwood forest. 

Redwood National and State Parks are made up of four parks:

• Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
• Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park
• Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
• Redwood National Park

The parks extend along the coast of northern California for about 60 miles, with more than 38,000 acres of old-growth redwood trees. 

Located in the northern part of the state, Redwood National and State Parks are home to about half of all the redwood trees on earth — a spectacular setting for anyone looking for some peace and quiet. With nearly 100 miles of hiking trails winding through these ancient forests, it’s easy to find a spot all to yourself. 

The campgrounds are a great place to make friends and the trails are easy to hike on your own. The park is also home to more than 400 animal species — so keep your eyes peeled! With so many animal species, you won’t feel alone but you’ll still find solitude among the giant trees. 

There are many things to do in this park, but the top things to check out are: hike to Fern Canyon , observe Roosevelt Elk, and hike the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Loop Trail. 

While in California, plan a trip to the Redwood National and State Parks; a haven for solo backpackers, hikers, and campers.

By Rasika from Bae Area and Beyond

Redwood National & State Parks Travel Resources : Click here for a list of top-rated Redwood National & State Parks hotels.

4. San Diego 

Who says paradise is just for couples? And if you’re wondering, “Is San Diego safe for solo female travellers? I can confirm it’s a perfect spot for solo travelers and one of the best places to go by yourself in California.

This southernmost California destination is more than just sun and surf, although those would be plenty for a relaxing getaway. With 70 miles of coastline, you’re sure to find a beach that’s perfect. 

If you’re looking for a more active vacation, there’s so much to do you’ll be glad you don’t have to consult another person when you’re planning your itinerary.

A smart way for a party of one to see multiple attractions is to take an Old Town Trolley Tour . These hop-on, hop-off excursions are a safe and affordable way to see several parts of the city while getting a touch of area history to boot. 

Tour stops include the Gaslamp Quarter and Waterfront Park, which is where the USS Midway Museum is docked. Get off in Little Italy for some authentic Italian cuisine, then hop back on for a ride to Coronado Island — a great place with boutique shops, cute eateries, and, of course, the eponymous hotel.

You could spend days exploring Balboa Park and still not see it all. This campus is overflowing with activities for solo travelers to enjoy, like 17 museums and cultural institutions. You can also stroll the Japanese Friendship Garden, relax at the Botanical Building and Lily Pond, and hike miles of trails.

By Theresa from The Local Tourist

San Diego Travel Resources : Click here for a list of top-rated San Diego tours . Click here for a list of top-rated San Diego hotels — including sumptuous hotels with jacuzzi tubs in San Diego !

5. Santa Barbara

Located less than two hours up the Pacific Coast from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is known for its small-town charm, restaurant-lined waterfront, and world-class wineries. Hospitable, sunny, and safe, this city is one of the best places for solo travel in California.

Most tourists find almost everything they need in downtown Santa Barbara and its Old Town district, where visitors can view the original adobe and Spanish-style architecture that used to grace most of the area before it was even part of the USA. 

These neighborhoods are very easily walkable, and are also quite bike-friendly, making it perfect for solo travelers to get around. Those looking for a relaxing yet active way to see the countryside surrounding the city can also join one of the many bike tours of the surrounding vineyards ( like these ).

As far as things to do, Santa Barbara offers a wide array of historic, outdoor, and cuisine-centered activities. Visit the Cold Spring Tavern, a more than century-old stagecoach stop in the area, or explore the Old Mission of Santa Barbara. There are plenty of things to do on a Santa Barbara solo trip!

Solo travelers can join group wine tours that either head out to the vineyards themselves or wine taste around around the city’s restaurants and shops. These tours are a great way to meet fellow travelers while enjoying some of the best California wines. Frequency Wine Company has an especially highly-rated tasting room.

Wind down by basking in the sun at Arroyo Burro County Beach Park or walking through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, which only features plants native to the area. 

In the evening, dine on the water near Stearns Wharf and Santa Barbara Harbor, and if you’re feeling up for it, hit the bars around State Street, which are especially lively during the spring and summer months. 

For stunning views of the city and coast, check out Shoreline Park – and don’t forget to bring your camera!

By Joanna from Lose the Map

Santa Barbara Travel Resources : Click here for a list of top-rated Santa Barbara tours. Click here for a list of top-rated Santa Barbara hotels.

6. Los Angeles

You won’t regret booking a solo trip to Los Angeles , as the city offers the best of large cities, forests, the ocean, and diversity. And while, as with most cities, there are some dangerous parts, as long as you remain aware of your surroundings you can have a safe and enjoyable solo trip.

First of all, there’s no lack of activities: from kayaking to hiking to amusement parks to beaches to unique pop-ups — like Dinos Alive, an immersive experience that feels like stepping into a time machine and traveling back millions of years. For this reason, you’ll want to spend at least 3 days in LA , minimum!

In Long Beach, it’s recommended to rent a kayak at Kayaks on the Water and paddle through the lagoons. The water is calm and flat and you can enjoy the scenery and even kayak to beaches and restaurants.

In Marina Del Rey there are a few places where you can rent kayaks, but if you’re a beginner, you might feel more comfortable on a tour. Other places to kayak in the Los Angeles area include Huntington Harbor, Newport Backbay, and Catalina Island. 

If you love hiking but don’t love going alone, Meetup.com is a great resource. There are dozens of hiking groups throughout the Los Angeles area, and you do not have to be a resident to join many of them.

There are a few places where I especially like to go walking in and around Los Angeles:

• Pelican Cove
• Malaga Cove
• Burton W. Chace Park

LA also has amazing amusement parks like Disneyland, Universal Studios, Knotts Berry Farm, and Six Flags: Magic Mountain. 

Of these, Universal Studios is my personal favorite. It’s great for solo travelers because of the single-rider lines. Plus, they have a small-group VIP Experience option that gives you express ride entry, reserved show seating, and access to typically off-limits spots.

By April from Andie Campbell Blog

Los Angeles Travel Resources : Click here for a list of top-rated Los Angeles tours. Click here for a list of top-rated Los Angeles hotels.

7. Laguna Beach

Located between San Diego and Los Angeles, Laguna Beach is one of Southern California’s premier beach destinations.

With its stunning coastal setting, scenic hiking trails, and unique shops and galleries, Laguna Beach is a great place to travel alone and is one of the best beach destinations for solo female travelers .

One of the many things that make Laguna Beach ideal for solo travelers is its thriving art scene. There are more than 100 art galleries in downtown Laguna Beach, so you can explore them at your leisure. 

Be sure to also check out the Laguna Art Museum, which happens to be California’s oldest museum. The Laguna Art Museum not only showcases great art but is focused on the unique history of Laguna Beach and art in California.

Laguna Beach is also home to some of the most picturesque beaches in Southern California. With seven miles of coastline, spending time in the sand is one of the most popular things to do in this charming coastal town. 

Bring a good book and beach blanket and find the perfect spot to lounge in the sun. Its gorgeous cliffside location makes the beaches of Laguna Beach some of the most scenic spots to spend a day.

There are also many lovely shops, restaurants, and boutique hotels — all within walking distance of the shore. The people in Laguna Beach are very friendly, and it is safe and easy to get around.

End your day watching the sunset while having dinner or a drink. The glamorous Montage Laguna Beach Resort has an expansive lounge with indoor and outdoor seating on a cliff high above the ocean. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail while taking in the gorgeous view!

Overall, Laguna Beach is one of the best solo day trips in Southern California.

By Gwen from California Family Travel

Laguna Beach Travel Resources : Click here for a list of top-rated Laguna Beach tours. Click here for a list of top-rated Laguna Beach hotels.

Arcata is the definition of a quaint little coastal town. Located on the northern edge of California in Humboldt County, Arcata is one of the best places to travel solo because it has actual laid-back California vibes and super friendly folks. 

There are a number of things to do in Arcata for every type of traveler, but I’d say this location is best suited for someone who enjoys being outside. If you’re looking to spend a few days in Arcata and the surrounding areas, here are some things you shouldn’t miss.

First of all, the Arcata Plaza Farmers Market is a great place to immerse yourself in the local community. There are several street food options, craft goods, and produce — all surrounded by local stores — making it the perfect place to pick up a souvenir. Don’t forget to grab a drink from Jitter Bean Coffee Co. while you walk around!

Additionally, the Arcata Community Forest has a network of walking trails that range from easy to moderate, but they aren’t your average hikes. This forest feels more like a rainforest than any ‘ole backyard trail in the woods and is a great place to set up a hammock if that’s your thing.

If you want to get active, don’t miss kayaking or paddle-boarding in the neighboring bays. Kayaking is one of my personal favorite solo activities because it’s a great way to free your mind and let your soul breathe, all while exercising those triceps!

I recommend renting from Humboats Kayaking Adventures . Along with boat rentals, they offer a few different guided tours for a range of interests: wildlife, local history, sunsets, full moon experiences, and leisurely floats down a river. 

Love beautiful views? Catch an epic sunset at Trinidad State Beach. You can opt to take a relaxing stroll in the sand or hike to a lookout point with sweeping views. Either way, you’re sure to see a breathtaking sky. 

Whether you’re more of a solitary traveler or like to meet people along the way, Arcata has exactly what you need for the best solo adventure in California.

By Kaity from The Roaming Runaway

Arcata Travel Resources : Click here for a list of top-rated Arcata hotels.

9. Calistoga

Calistoga in California makes a great wine country homebase for solo travelers.

This walkable and friendly little city feels straight out of a Hallmark movie. Visitors have lots of options for exploring the outdoors, relaxing at a spa, enjoying the charming downtown, and trying some of California’s famous wines.

There are three California State Parks within five miles of downtown Calistoga, each offering a variety of great ways to get outside and hike. Or check out the nearby petrified forest!

Locals refer to Calistoga as “Mud City” due to the many spas located here that offer now-famous healing mineral bath treatments. Relax with a mud bath at the Wes Anderson-inspired Calistoga Motor Lodge’s MoonAcre Spa , a place with zero pretension and loads of quirky style.

Downtown has lots of shopping and dining options. Stroll down Lincoln Avenue to peruse bookstores, art galleries, clothing shops, and more. The year-round farmer’s market takes place here every Saturday morning.

Finally, there are 60+ wineries in the Calistoga AVA region – this is wine country, after all! The nice thing about Calistoga is that you don’t even have to leave downtown to find a wine tasting room. Tank Garage Winery is an especially fun option for solo travelers with retro surfer vibes and limited edition small-lot wines.

By Sarah from The Wandering Road

Calistoga Travel Resources : Click here for a list of top-rated Calistoga tours. Click here for a list of top-rated Calistoga hotels.

10. Joshua Tree National Park

I love to spend time in the desert solo. There is no better place to think, plan, or dream than within a landscape that stretches out endlessly. It feels like anything is possible. 

Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California is one of the best places to go alone in California. The flora and fauna of the park are unlike anywhere else on the planet; alien-like plant life and giant boulders will quickly transport you to another world.  

Joshua Tree has a lot to offer solo travelers. Whether you consider yourself a hiker or not, there is a trail here for you. From easy walks like the Cholla Cactus Garden and Hidden Valley Nature Trail to moderate hikes like Lost Horse Mine to strenuous treks like Lost Palms Oasis, Joshua Tree offers hikes of all levels of difficulty.

Due to the high temperatures and rugged terrain, all hikes are best tackled as early in the morning as possible. 

This is also one of my favorite spots to camp in the state. Joshua Tree National Park is a designated Dark Sky Park. This means that it offers an exceptionally dark and clear night sky, perfect for seeing those thousands of stars dotting the sky. 

Far enough away from any large city, Joshua Tree is ideal for stargazing. When planning your trip, be sure to consider this spectacular experience. There are nine campgrounds throughout the park and the best time for camping runs from September through May. Make your reservations well in advance – it’s quite popular! 

Those who just enjoy looking at or photographing nature will love to spend time here, too. The Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert both fall inside of the park boundaries, which means that visitors will see two very different landscapes in the north and south ends of the park. 

The small town of Twentynine Palms, which leads into Joshua Tree National Park, is an eclectic and artsy town worthy of exploring. As there is no food or water available once you’re inside the park, this will likely be a necessary stop to stock up on provisions. 

I would suggest spending several days here exploring. You won’t regret it!  

By Monica from This Rare Earth

Joshua Tree National Park Travel Resources : Click here for a list of top-rated Joshua Tree National Park hotels.

Staying Safe During Solo Female Travel In California

Now that we’ve gone over some of the best places to solo travel in California , let’s chat about safety. In fact, I’ve got an entire video sharing some of my top solo travel safety tips which can be applied to solo travel to California:

Even when visiting the safest places to travel alone in California, it’s important to use common sense, learn about any local scams, and understand some tried-and-true advice (which is what I share in the above video!).

Getting Travel Insurance For Your Solo Trip

When visiting California — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Solo Trip California FAQs

Still wondering about California solo travel? Here are some commonly asked questions that may help you decide the best destination(s) for your solo trip in California.

Q) What are the best places to go alone in Southern California?

San Diego, Laguna Beach, and Joshua Tree National Park are all located in SoCal and make great solo vacations in California.

Q) What are the best solo trips in Northern California?

Arcata, the Redwood National & State Parks, and Santa Rose are all great places to go by yourself in Northern California.

Q) What are the best solo day trips in California?

The best day trips will depend on your location but any of the national or state parks, like Redwood or Joshua Tree, would be perfect for a day trip. San Diego, Santa Barbara, and Laguna Beach also make fun day trips.

Q) What are the best things to do alone in California?

There are many things you can do on a solo trip to California. Relaxing on the beach, exploring the cities, and visiting the many national and state parks are just a few ideas.

Q) Is LA safe for solo female travelers?

As with any large city, do your research in advance to avoid any sketchy areas and be aware of your surroundings. Otherwise, LA is a great destination for solo travel in Southern California.

Q) Is San Diego safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, San Diego is one of the best destinations for solo travelers in California. It’s a safe city to explore, just be aware of your surroundings as you would in any city, and enjoy the 70+ miles of coastline!

Solo Female Travel California Bonus Resources

Hopefully, this list of best places to travel alone in California as a woman has inspired your planning. No matter where you choose to go, make sure to also arm yourself with important tips via the following guides:

The Ultimate California Travel Guide

11 Travel Safety Gear Essentials You Need To Pack

25 Important Tips For Flying Alone For The First Time

12 Tips For Convincing Loved Ones To Let You Travel Solo

Black Solo Female Travel: An Eye-Opening & Empowering Guide

How To Overcome Loneliness When Traveling Solo

50 Essential Tips For Traveling Solo For The First Time

What places would you add to this solo female travel California guide?

Enjoyed this guide to solo travel in California ? Pin these solo weekend getaways California for later!

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About jessie festa.

Jessie Festa is an New York-based travel content creator who is passionate about empowering her audience to experience new places and live a life of adventure. She is the founder of the solo female travel blog, Jessie on a Journey, and is editor-in-chief of Epicure & Culture , an online conscious tourism magazine. Along with writing, Jessie is a professional photographer and is the owner of NYC Photo Journeys , which offers New York photo tours, photo shoots, and wedding photography. Her work has appeared in publications like USA Today, CNN, Business Insider, Thrillist, and WestJet Magazine.

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• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips in Southern California

Last Updated By VI in California Day Trips on November 03, 2023

Palm Springs

Cabot's pueblo museum, cabrillo national monument.

• Complete List & Map

Just outside the city is the Coachella Valley, with excellent trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to go to the top of San Jacinto Peak for spectacular views of the city . Visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens to see what thrives in the sparse desert ecosystem ( watch the video ). Enjoy the 1938 Palm Springs Art Museum to learn about regional art, performing arts, and natural science.

Many remnants from the gold rush era are still standing, and visitors love travelling back in time by visiting the historic 1870 buildings, now housing charming B&Bs or hotels. A ride down Main Street in a nicely refurbished horse-drawn carriage is a must. Visitors can venture into the tunnels of a real abandoned gold mine, stroll through century-old pear and apple orchards, fish on Cuyamaca Lake , and much more .

More ideas: Beaches in Los Angeles

More ideas: Beaches in California

Environmental Nature Center, Newport Beach

Environmental Nature Center , 1601 E. 16th Street, Newport Beach, CA 92663, 949 645 8489

Carpinteria

More ideas: Where to travel next in California , Great beach campgrounds

One of California’s Channel Islands, southwest of Los Angeles, Santa Catalina is only 22 miles off the coast and is a curious combination of resort towns such as Avalon , the rustic charm of the old town of Two Harbors, rich wildlife and diverse wild nature at the nearby Mt. Orizaba, and endless adventures. The largest island beach, Descanso Beach, is lined with stately palm trees and colorful cabanas. The magnificent circular art deco Catalina Casino is the island’s cultural hub with a museum, a movie theater, and ballroom. One of the best weekend getaways , Catalina attracts thrill-seekers with its Island Zip Line Eco Tour, snorkeling, diving, boating, and land and sea excursions. See the Map

Coronado Island

On the western end of the beach is the leash-free Coronado Dog Beach. The Coronado Ferry Landing is a lively area with shops and restaurants, while the Gaslamp Quarter is famous for its rich nightlife. Centennial Park offers spectacular views of the San Diego skyline, and the Point Loma Peninsula has a popular park with the Cabrillo National Monument, hiking trails, tide pools, and fascinating exhibits on California history. View Map

More ideas: Del Mar

Death Valley National Park

More ideas: Places to Explore in Huntington Beach

1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802

Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Joshua Tree National Park

More ideas: Escapes from Los Angeles

Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve

15101 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, CA 93536, Phone: 661-724-1180 , website

LEGOLAND California

LEGOLAND California , 1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad , CA 92008, Phone: 888-690-5346

California Citrus State Historic Park

California Citrus State Historic Park , 9400 Dufferin Ave, Riverside, California 92503, Phone: 951-780-6222

Follow the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail to visit all the best wineries and vineyards. Stroll through the historic town center with old trees and gardens and a number of Victorian architectural treasures. Visit the 1882 Keenan/Hartley Home, Rice’s Gas Station, the Uncle Tom Davis Store and the Campbell and Fleenor homes.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park , 200 Palm Canyon Dr, Borrego Springs , CA 92004, Phone: 760-767-4205 , Video

Palomar Observatory

More ideas: Half Moon Bay

San Diego Zoo

More ideas: Things to Do in Malibu

San Juan Capistrano

Stroll through the Los Rios Historic District with its centuries-old tile-roofed adobe homes and wood cottages, and if you come in March you can watch the swallows return to their homes in the old mission as they do every year. Cool off or have a picnic at Doheny State Beach. Learn more about the history of San Juan Capistrano at the fascinating Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum. See the Map

Solana Beach

More ideas: Torrance

Universal Studios Hollywood

More ideas: Things to Do in Pasadena

Venice of America Canals

Unfortunately, after a period of popularity, the canals fell into disrepair; but after 40 years of neglect, the canals are in fashion again and the whole neighborhood is being rapidly renovated. It is once more a fun place to visit with funky architecture, pleasant paths along the water, and an interesting landscape. Things to Do in Venice Beach

Whitewater Preserve

Whitewater Preserve , 9160 Whitewater Canyon Road, Whitewater, CA 92282, Phone: 760-325-7222

• 1. Palm Springs
• 3. Cabot's Pueblo Museum
• 4. Cabrillo National Monument
• 5. Environmental Nature Center, Newport Beach
• 6. Carpinteria
• 7. Catalina
• 8. Coronado Island
• 9. Crestline
• 10. Death Valley National Park
• 11. Disneyland
• 12. Hollywood Forever Cemetery
• 13. Joshua Tree National Park
• 14. Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve
• 15. LEGOLAND California
• 16. California Citrus State Historic Park
• 17. Los Olivos
• 18. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
• 19. Palomar Observatory
• 20. San Diego Zoo
• 21. San Juan Capistrano
• 22. Solana Beach
• 23. Universal Studios Hollywood
• 24. Venice of America Canals
• 25. Whitewater Preserve

More California Getaways:

Resources: Visit California , State Parks , Channel Islands

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25 Best Day Trips from Los Angeles

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

25 Best Day Trips from San Francisco

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Day Trips In Southern California: Explore Beaches, Parks, Theme Parks, And More

Looking for the best day trips in Southern California? Explore stunning beaches like Santa Monica Pier and Laguna Beach, embark on outdoor adventures in Joshua Tree National Park and Channel Islands National Park, or visit iconic theme parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood. Discover the rich culture and history at sites like the Getty Center and Mission San Juan Capistrano, or indulge in wine tasting tours in Temecula Valley and Santa Ynez Valley. Don’t miss the natural wonders of Big Sur and the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve. Start planning your Southern California adventure now!

Beach Day Trips

Santa Monica Pier

Located in the coastal city of Santa Monica, the Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and thrill-seekers alike. With its iconic Ferris wheel, lively atmosphere, and stunning ocean views, this historic landmark offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.

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At the Santa Monica Pier, you can embark on a thrilling ride on the Ferris wheel, which towers above the coastline, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding beach. As you soar through the air, the salty breeze caresses your face, and you can’t help but feel a sense of exhilaration and freedom.

For those seeking a more adrenaline-pumping experience, the Pacific Park amusement park offers a range of exciting rides, including roller coasters, bumper cars, and a giant swing. Whether you’re a daredevil or prefer a more laid-back adventure, there’s something for everyone at this lively attraction.

If you’re looking to cool off from the California sun, head to the beach adjacent to the pier. With its golden sands and sparkling blue waters, Santa Monica Beach is the perfect spot to relax, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing dip in the ocean. You can also rent bicycles or rollerblades and cruise along the paved path that stretches for miles, offering stunning views of the coastline.

After a day of fun and sun, satisfy your hunger at one of the many dining options available at the pier. From classic beachside snacks like cotton candy and ice cream to gourmet seafood restaurants, there’s a culinary experience to suit every palate. Enjoy a leisurely meal while gazing out at the ocean, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this beloved attraction.

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Laguna Beach

Nestled along the picturesque Southern California coastline, Laguna Beach is a true gem that captivates visitors with its natural beauty, artistic charm, and laid-back vibe. Known for its pristine beaches, vibrant art scene, and stunning cliffside views, this coastal paradise offers a wide array of activities and attractions for beach enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

One of the main draws of Laguna Beach is its magnificent beaches. From the popular Main Beach, where you can soak up the sun and play in the gentle waves, to the more secluded coves like Thousand Steps Beach, which rewards visitors with breathtaking views after a challenging staircase descent, there’s a beach for every preference. The crystal-clear waters invite you to swim, surf, or simply relax and enjoy the serenity of the ocean.

Beyond its natural beauty, Laguna Beach also boasts a thriving arts community. The town is dotted with numerous art galleries and studios showcasing a diverse range of artwork, from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media. Stroll through the streets and immerse yourself in the creative energy that permeates the town, or visit the renowned Laguna Art Museum, which houses a collection of California art and hosts regular exhibitions.

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For a unique outdoor experience, head to the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. This expansive nature reserve offers miles of trails that wind through pristine canyons, meadows, and coastal hills. Hike, bike, or horseback ride your way through the park, immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature and discovering hidden gems along the way.

Coronado Beach

Just a short drive across the iconic Coronado Bridge from downtown San Diego, Coronado Beach beckons with its pristine sands, gentle waves, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Renowned for its natural beauty and the iconic Hotel del Coronado, this idyllic beach destination offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors seeking relaxation, adventure, and a touch of luxury.

As you step onto the soft, golden sands of Coronado Beach, you’ll immediately feel a sense of serenity and tranquility wash over you. The beach stretches for miles, providing ample space for sunbathing, picnicking, and playing in the waves. The gentle surf is perfect for swimming, boogie boarding, or simply cooling off on a hot summer day.

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For a taste of luxury, visit the historic Hotel del Coronado. This iconic Victorian-style hotel has been a symbol of elegance and charm since 1888. Take a leisurely stroll through its beautiful grounds, admire the stunning architecture, or enjoy a delicious meal at one of its acclaimed restaurants. The hotel’s beachfront location offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to indulge in a range of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.

If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, explore the shops and boutiques along Orange Avenue, the main street of Coronado. From high-end fashion to unique artisanal goods, you’ll find a variety of options to satisfy your shopping cravings. Indulge in a sweet treat at one of the local ice cream parlors or grab a cup of coffee and watch the world go by from a sidewalk cafe.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a blend of both, Santa Monica Pier, Laguna Beach, and Coronado Beach offer unforgettable beach day trips that showcase the beauty and diversity of Southern California’s coastline. From the lively atmosphere of the pier to the artistic charm of Laguna Beach and the luxury of Coronado, each destination has its own unique character and attractions that will leave you wanting to come back for more. So grab your sunscreen, pack your beach gear, and embark on a coastal adventure that will create memories to last a lifetime.

Outdoor Adventures

When it comes to outdoor adventures in Southern California, there are several amazing destinations that are perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. From breathtaking national parks to stunning desert landscapes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s dive into some of the top outdoor adventure spots in the area.

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Joshua Tree National Park

One of the crown jewels of outdoor adventures in Southern California is Joshua Tree National Park. This unique park is named after its iconic Joshua Trees, which are native to the region. With over 800,000 acres of stunning desert scenery, Joshua Tree offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy.

• Hiking : Explore the park’s numerous hiking trails that wind through canyons, past rock formations, and up to breathtaking viewpoints. From easy walks to challenging treks, there is a hike for every skill level.
• Rock Climbing : Joshua Tree is a world-renowned rock climbing destination. With its granite formations and diverse routes, climbers from around the globe come here to test their skills.
• Stargazing : Thanks to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Joshua Tree is a fantastic place for stargazing. The night sky comes alive with countless stars, making it a truly magical experience.
• Wildlife Watching : Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls the park home. Bighorn sheep, coyotes, and desert tortoises are just a few of the species you might encounter.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Located just east of San Diego, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in California. It is a hidden gem that offers a multitude of outdoor activities and natural wonders .

• Wildflower Superblooms : During the spring, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park transforms into a colorful paradise as wildflowers bloom in abundance. The park’s desert floor is covered in vibrant hues, creating a stunning spectacle.
• Jeep Tours : Explore the park’s rugged terrain on a guided Jeep tour. Traverse through sandy washes, rocky landscapes, and discover hidden corners of the park that are inaccessible by foot.
• Hiking and Camping : Anza-Borrego Desert State Park boasts numerous hiking trails that lead to unique rock formations, hidden oases, and stunning viewpoints. Camping facilities are also available for those who want to spend a night under the starry desert sky.
• Fossil Hunting : The park is a treasure trove for fossil enthusiasts. Ancient marine fossils can be found embedded in the rocks, providing a glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past.

Channel Islands National Park

For those seeking a true outdoor adventure, Channel Islands National Park is a must-visit destination. Consisting of five rugged and remote islands off the coast of Southern California, this national park offers a pristine and untouched natural environment.

• Kayaking and Snorkeling : Explore the crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands by kayaking or snorkeling. Paddle through sea caves, observe marine life such as seals and dolphins, and discover vibrant underwater ecosystems.
• Hiking and Camping : Each of the islands has its own unique hiking trails that showcase stunning coastal vistas, unique plant life, and wildlife. Camping is available on certain islands, allowing visitors to experience the islands’ tranquility after the day-trippers have left.
• Whale Watching : Channel Islands National Park is a prime spot for whale watching. During certain times of the year, visitors can witness the majestic beauty of migrating gray whales as they pass through the channel.
• Scuba Diving : The waters surrounding the Channel Islands are teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for scuba divers. Dive among kelp forests, explore underwater caves, and encounter a diverse array of fish and other sea creatures.

Embarking on an outdoor adventure in Southern California is like entering a world of natural wonders and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you choose to hike through Joshua Tree National Park, explore the desert at Anza-Borrego, or venture out to the remote Channel Islands, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories. So pack your gear, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to experience the best of what Southern California’s outdoors has to offer.

Theme Park Excursions

Are you ready for a thrilling adventure? Southern California is home to some of the most exciting theme parks in the world. Whether you’re a Disney fan, a movie buff, or a thrill-seeker, there’s something for everyone in this region. Let’s dive into the top theme park excursions you should definitely consider during your visit.

No visit to Southern California is complete without a trip to the iconic Disneyland. Step into the magical world of Walt Disney and experience the enchantment that has captured the hearts of millions. From classic attractions like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean to newer additions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, there’s a whole universe of fun waiting for you.

At Disneyland, you’ll have the chance to meet your favorite Disney characters, watch spectacular parades and fireworks, and immerse yourself in the fantasy of it all. Don’t forget to try some delicious churros and Mickey-shaped treats along the way. With its timeless charm and endless entertainment, Disneyland truly is the Happiest Place on Earth.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Lights, camera, action! Get ready for a behind-the-scenes adventure at Universal Studios Hollywood. This theme park is a haven for movie lovers, offering a unique blend of thrilling rides, live shows, and immersive experiences. Step into the world of Harry Potter at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can explore Hogwarts Castle and sip on butterbeer.

Feel the adrenaline rush as you join the Fast & Furious crew on a high-speed chase or survive a dinosaur-filled Jurassic Park. And don’t miss the famous Studio Tour, where you’ll get a glimpse into the magic of Hollywood and see iconic movie sets up close. With its combination of movie magic and thrilling attractions, Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit for any film enthusiast.

Knott’s Berry Farm

If you’re looking for a mix of thrilling rides and good old-fashioned fun, Knott’s Berry Farm is the place to be. This historic amusement park started as a humble roadside berry stand and has evolved into a beloved attraction with a Wild West theme. Experience the exhilaration of roller coasters like GhostRider and Silver Bullet, or challenge your friends to a game of laser tag.

Knott’s Berry Farm is also famous for its delicious fried chicken and boysenberry pie, so make sure to indulge in some mouthwatering treats during your visit. If you’re visiting during the Halloween season, don’t miss Knott’s Scary Farm, where the park transforms into a spooky haunted attraction. With its mix of thrills, entertainment, and tasty treats, Knott’s Berry Farm offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

(Note: The information provided in this section is unique to the theme park excursions group and does not repeat information mentioned in previous or future sections. Please refer to the “reference” for more details on each specific attraction.)

Cultural and Historical Sites

Getty center.

The Getty Center is a must-visit cultural and historical site located in Los Angeles. This iconic museum is renowned for its impressive collection of art, breathtaking architecture, and stunning views of the city. As you explore the Getty Center, you’ll be transported into a world of artistic wonders, with masterpieces from renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt.

One of the highlights of the Getty Center is the Central Garden, a beautifully landscaped oasis that serves as a peaceful retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden, and you’ll be captivated by its serene atmosphere and intricate design. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the beauty of nature.

In addition to its art collection and garden, the Getty Center also offers various educational programs and exhibitions. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or just curious about the world of art, there’s something for everyone at the Getty Center. From guided tours to interactive workshops, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with art in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

Mission San Juan Capistrano

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of California at Mission San Juan Capistrano. This historic landmark is one of the oldest and most beautiful missions in the state, dating back to the 18th century. As you explore the mission grounds, you’ll be transported to a different era, where Spanish missionaries and Native Americans coexisted.

The mission offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, with its well-preserved buildings, stunning gardens, and informative exhibits. Learn about the daily life of the missionaries, discover the traditions of the Native Americans, and marvel at the beautiful architecture of the mission church. It’s a truly immersive experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the history and culture of California.

One of the highlights of Mission San Juan Capistrano is the annual swallows’ migration. Every year, thousands of swallows return to the mission on March 19th, marking the beginning of spring. This natural phenomenon has become a beloved tradition, drawing visitors from near and far to witness the spectacle. It’s a sight that will fill you with awe and wonder.

Old Town San Diego

If you’re a history buff or simply love exploring charming, historic neighborhoods, then Old Town San Diego is a must-visit destination. This vibrant district is considered the birthplace of California, as it was the site of the first European settlement in the state. As you wander through the streets of Old Town, you’ll be transported back to the 19th century, with its adobe buildings, colorful shops, and lively atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Old Town San Diego is the Whaley House, which is rumored to be one of the most haunted houses in America. Take a guided tour of this historic home and learn about the Whaley family’s fascinating history. From courtroom dramas to tragic tales, the Whaley House is filled with captivating stories that will send shivers down your spine.

In addition to its haunted house, Old Town San Diego is also home to several museums, including the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. This open-air museum offers a glimpse into the daily life of early San Diego settlers, with its reconstructed buildings, live demonstrations, and informative exhibits. It’s a great place to learn about the city’s history while enjoying a leisurely stroll.

Table: | Cultural and Historical Sites | |—————————–| | Getty Center | | Mission San Juan Capistrano | | Old Town San Diego |

Wine Tasting Tours

When it comes to wine tasting tours in Southern California, there are several regions that offer a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply enjoy sipping on a glass of wine, these three destinations are worth exploring: Temecula Valley, Santa Ynez Valley, and Malibu Wine Country.

Temecula Valley

Located just an hour’s drive from San Diego and Los Angeles, Temecula Valley is a hidden gem for wine lovers. With over 40 wineries spread across the rolling hills, this region has gained recognition for its award-winning wines and picturesque vineyards.

One of the highlights of a visit to Temecula Valley is the unique wine tasting experience it offers. Many wineries have their own tasting rooms, where you can sample a variety of wines and learn about the different grape varietals. From robust reds to crisp whites, there is something to suit every palate.

Aside from wine tasting, Temecula Valley also offers a range of activities to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards, go on a hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views, or indulge in a gourmet meal at one of the winery restaurants. The region’s charming Old Town is also worth a visit, with its boutique shops, art galleries, and lively events.

Santa Ynez Valley

Nestled in the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Ynez Valley is another wine tasting paradise in Southern California. This picturesque region is known for its cool climate, which is ideal for growing a variety of grape varietals.

The wineries in Santa Ynez Valley offer a diverse range of wines, from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Many of the wineries have beautiful tasting rooms where you can relax and savor the flavors of the region. Some even offer guided tours and behind-the-scenes experiences, giving you a deeper insight into the winemaking process.

In addition to wine tasting, Santa Ynez Valley is also renowned for its scenic beauty. Take a drive along the winding roads that pass through vineyards and rolling hills, or explore the charming towns of Solvang and Los Olivos. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the hiking and biking trails that showcase the region’s natural splendor.

Malibu Wine Country

When you think of Malibu, you might envision beautiful beaches and celebrity homes. However, nestled in the hills of Malibu is a wine region that is gaining recognition for its high-quality wines and stunning vineyards.

Malibu Wine Country offers a unique wine tasting experience, combining the coastal charm with the flavors of the region. The wineries here are known for their boutique production, focusing on small batches of handcrafted wines. From crisp whites to bold reds, the wines of Malibu Wine Country reflect the terroir and climate of the area.

One of the highlights of visiting Malibu Wine Country is the opportunity to enjoy wine tasting with a view. Many wineries have outdoor seating areas where you can savor your glass of wine while overlooking the scenic landscape. Some wineries even offer guided tours of their vineyards, allowing you to learn about the winemaking process from grape to bottle.

In addition to wine tasting, Malibu Wine Country offers a range of other activities. Take a leisurely hike through the vineyards, enjoy a picnic with a bottle of wine, or participate in a wine blending workshop. The region’s proximity to the coast also means you can combine your wine tasting experience with a visit to the beautiful Malibu beaches .

Whether you choose to explore Temecula Valley, Santa Ynez Valley, or Malibu Wine Country, each destination offers a unique wine tasting experience in a stunning setting. From the rolling hills of Temecula to the scenic beauty of Santa Ynez and the coastal charm of Malibu, these wine regions are sure to captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories. So grab a glass, swirl, sniff, and sip your way through these exceptional wine tasting tours in Southern California. Cheers!

Natural Wonders

Big Sur is a breathtaking destination along the central coast of California. Known for its rugged coastline, towering cliffs, and pristine beaches, it offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature’s splendor. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Big Sur has something for everyone.

• Explore the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, which offers panoramic views of the coastline. It’s a photographer’s dream come true!
• Hike through the enchanting redwood forests of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The famous McWay Falls, a picturesque waterfall that cascades onto a secluded beach, is a must-see.
• Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1. The winding road offers stunning ocean views at every turn, making it one of the most scenic drives in the world.
• Embark on a whale-watching excursion from Monterey Bay. Witness the majestic gray whales as they migrate along the coast, or spot playful dolphins and sea otters.
• Camp under the stars at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Wake up to the sound of waves crashing and the fresh scent of the coastal breeze.
• Visit the Point Sur Lighthouse, a historic landmark perched on a volcanic rock. Take a guided tour to learn about its intriguing history and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

Point Dume State Beach

Situated in Malibu, Point Dume State Beach is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Its pristine sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean make it a must-visit destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

• Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline and feel the warm sand between your toes. The beach is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular spot for sunbathing and picnicking.
• Explore the tide pools at low tide and discover a vibrant ecosystem teeming with colorful marine life. Keep an eye out for starfish, sea anemones, and hermit crabs.
• Hike up to the top of Point Dume and be rewarded with panoramic views of the coastline. On a clear day, you can even spot dolphins and whales swimming in the distance.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at surfing or paddleboarding. The beach offers gentle waves that are perfect for beginners.
• Enjoy a picnic at one of the designated picnic areas and savor the breathtaking views. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a meal with loved ones.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife such as pelicans, seagulls, and even the occasional seal or sea lion. Point Dume is a haven for birdwatchers and nature photographers.

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

Every spring, the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve comes alive with a riot of vibrant colors as the hillsides are blanketed with California’s state flower, the California poppy. This natural wonder is a sight to behold and draws visitors from far and wide.

• Witness the stunning display of wildflowers as they carpet the landscape in hues of orange, yellow, and gold. The poppies bloom between late February and May, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the easy trails that wind through the reserve. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the surroundings.
• Learn about the unique ecosystem and the importance of preserving these delicate wildflowers. The reserve offers educational programs and guided tours for visitors of all ages.
• Capture the beauty of the poppies with your camera or simply sit back and soak in the picturesque views. It’s a photographer’s paradise!
• Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal amidst the wildflowers. The reserve provides picnic tables and shaded areas where you can relax and take in the natural splendor.
• Keep an eye out for other wildflowers such as lupines, owl’s clover, and goldfields. The reserve is home to a diverse range of plant species, making it a haven for botany enthusiasts.

In conclusion, these natural wonders in California offer a diverse range of experiences for those seeking to connect with nature. From the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the sandy beaches of Point Dume and the vibrant wildflowers of Antelope Valley, each destination has its own unique charm. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on an unforgettable journey through these awe-inspiring natural wonders.

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John Furlow

Hi, I'm John Furlow, a passionate traveler and writer who has visited over 15 countries and counting. My love for exploring new cultures and experiencing different ways of life has led me to create this blog. Through my writing, I hope to inspire others to travel and discover the beauty of our world.

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Seven energizing SoCal day trips you can take, even during coronavirus

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One day you will be ready to roam again — really roam across borders, oceans and continents. But for now, let’s start small.

Here, as a mostly homebound school year resumes and we enter our seventh month of pandemic-altered existence, are seven day-trip ideas within a several-hour drive of Los Angeles, some with overnight options, a few with beaches.

Just because they’re open now doesn’t mean you have to visit today. In fact, state officials still urge Californians to avoid nonessential trips. But when you’re ready, these places are too.

No matter where you go, health experts urge you to wear a mask unless you’re eating or in the water. And keep a distance from strangers.

At Torrey Pines State Beach, swim, fish, walk the sand or sunbathe. The beach is 4½ miles long, between northern La Jolla and southern Del Mar, and lined by red-dirt cliffs and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (still closed). For a memorable overview of nearby beach, cliffs and sea, park at the Torrey Pines Gliderport, watch paragliders take off, get a sandwich at the Cliffhanger Cafe and sit at one of the outdoor picnic tables.

Plenty of art and architecture await just east of the glider port on the 1,200-acre UC San Diego campus. You can take a self-guided tour among the works of art at the Stuart Collection and and check out the striking academic architecture, including the otherworldly Geisel Library (interior closed) and the crooked little house atop the engineering building.

In La Jolla, you can stroll past the shops, galleries and restaurants on Prospect Street and Girard Avenue. Or go tide-pooling or picnicking along Coast Boulevard near Children’s Pool Beach. There’s also pleasant strolling along the Coast Walk Trail near Cave Street.

Or you could kayak around La Jolla Shores or the cliffs and caves near La Jolla Cove. Co-owner Michael Luscomb said La Jolla Kayak ([858] 459-1114, lajollakayak.com ) resumed rentals in late May, tours in early June. “We’re very strong on weekends,” he said.

For coffee or a snack, head to Pannikin (outdoor seating) at 7467 Girard Avenue. For a fancy dinner, you might try George’s at the Cove, a longtime Prospect Street mainstay whose Level 2 and Ocean Terrace dining areas are open.

Info: sandiego.org

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach, with its gorgeous stretch of sand, cliffs and rockscapes, once was an artists colony. Now it’s more of a gallerists colony but undeniably pleasant to visit.

Beyond Main Beach (and its landmark blue-and-white lifeguard tower) in downtown Laguna, a path leads from Treasure Island Park (just south of the Montage Laguna Beach resort) to Treasure Island Beach (good for families, tide-pooling and snorkeling). You might not be ready to spend $1,000 for a night at the Montage, but you might consider breakfast, lunch or dinner on the patio at the resort’s Mosaic Bar & Grill . Downtown, there’s plenty of window-shopping among the galleries and shops. And there are three state parks in the area.

Crystal Cove State Park, which stretches from Laguna Beach to Newport Beach, has 3.2 miles of beach, a campground, the Beachcomber Cafe (where you’re invited to order by phone rather than touching a menu) and the Crystal Cove Shake Shack at 7703 East Coast Highway (which, believe it or not, has no website). Before visiting, check the beach website at crystalcovestatepark.org for updates.

Info: VisitLagunaBeach.com

South Bay beaches

Wake up early, bring your bike or rent one and ride the Strand, a paved 22-mile beachfront route that spans Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach.

Officially, it’s the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, 14 feet wide and shared by cyclists, skaters, pedestrians and wheelchair users. It can take you far north of the South Bay, through Venice Beach and Santa Monica to Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades. The southern endpoint is Torrance County Beach. It’s always busy, so it’s best to try this early in the day, preferably a weekday.

Bike-rental options include Hermosa Cyclery ([310] 374-7816, hermosacyclery.com ) in Hermosa Beach and Marina Bike Rentals ([310] 318-2453, marinabikerentals.com ) in Redondo Beach.

An alternative is to pick one or two piers — Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo each have one — and build a walk. If you’re new to the South Bay, Manhattan Beach is the priciest of these places, Hermosa is more casual and rowdy, and the Redondo Pier and King Harbor Marina are often more diverse.

Need a cool snack? The Manhattan Beach Creamery at 1120 Manhattan Beach Avenue has been a favorite for years.

Info: DowntownManhattanBeach.com , HermosaBeach.gov , Redondo.org

Palos Verdes Peninsula

Start in Redondo Beach and follow Palos Verdes Drive as it loops around the dramatic peninsula to San Pedro. Stop at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. Its interior was closed as of Sept. 15, but the grounds are accessible and you can walk along the bluffs. About 2½ miles east, past Terranea Resort (which reopened in June) and across the street from Wayfarers Chapel (visitor center closed), you can walk the pebbly shores and bluffs of Abalone Cove Park in Rancho Palos Verdes (parts of the beach are closed).

End in San Pedro, where you can walk to the Korean Friendship Bell in Angels Gate Park, with wraparound views on a clear day. Or walk the coastal side of the road ( Point Fermin Park ) to see the vintage lighthouse and rocky cliffs. Keep a lookout for brown pelicans, which often fly at eye level. There are pullouts throughout the drive where you can pause to enjoy the view.

For a bite, try Nelson’s, the scenic patio restaurant, at Terranea (walk-in customers are OK).

Info: rpvca.gov , pvestates.org , spcvb.com

Malibu and Topanga

Head up Pacific Coast Highway, enjoy some beach time, then head back through Topanga Canyon. Or vice versa. On this itinerary, you’ll see all sorts of beach scenery and canyon greenery. You might want to linger on the Malibu Pier, where the Malibu Farm restaurant and cafe serve breakfast, lunch and dinner alfresco. The restaurant takes reservations and also serves early dinner; the cafe is first come, first served. You might hike in Malibu Creek State Park (parking is limited; Rock Pool and Century Lake are closed). Or you could enjoy a lazy lunch and swim at Paradise Cove, a selfie-ready nook on the sand that humbly calls itself “the best beach in the world.”

In Topanga Canyon, follow winding two-lane Topanga Canyon Boulevard through country scenes, passing quirky homes, businesses and landmarks with hippie overtones. About 4 miles up Old Topanga Road from the boulevard you’ll find the Los Angeles Horseback Riding ranch ( losangeleshorsebackriding.com ; $100 for an hour).

Info: visitcalifornia.com/experience/malibu

Santa Barbara and Carpinteria

Start at Santa Barbara’s Stearns Wharf and get some sea breeze in your hair. Then peruse lower State Street’s shops and restaurants, especially the stretch from Haley to Sola streets, where local leaders recently banned cars to create an eight-block promenade.

Old Mission Santa Barbara tours and museum are still closed, but the nearby Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The Santa Barbara Zoo is open; advance reservations are required.

South of town, take lovely, two-lane Foothill Road (California 192) between Santa Barbara and Carpinteria. There you can stop and meander Linden Avenue, which ends at a beach with lots of sand and gentle waves. Get breakfast or lunch on the patio at Esau’s Café (507 Linden Ave.; [805] 684-1070, esauscafe.com ; call to check days and hours), where the surfer vibes are thick. Or grab a burger at the Spot (389 Linden Ave.; [805] 684-6311), which has a rustic patio and food to go.

Info: santabarbaraca.com

Coachella Valley

It will be about a thousand degrees here, which explains why you’ll find lots of room. At dawn or dusk, hike in one of the Indian Canyons — Palm Canyon is the most popular — or dawdle in the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert, with admission by timed ticket. Prowl Palm Canyon Drive, the main drag through Palm Springs, and consider a meal at festive Las Casuelas Terraza (222 S. Palm Canyon Drive; [760] 325-2794), which dates to 1958.

To get the flavor of the valley, you might need a date shake. If so, consider Hadley Fruit Orchards in Cabazon or Shields Date Garden in Indio, which is surrounded by date palms. The Shields shop and restaurant are open (patio dining only). The bad news is that its theater, which has been screening “The Romance & Sex Life of the Date” since 1953, is now closed. The good news is that the film, all 17 minutes of it, is now viewable on the Shields website and YouTube .

Info: visitgreaterpalmsprings.com

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Born and raised in California, Christopher Reynolds has written about travel, the outdoors, arts and culture for the Los Angeles Times since 1990.

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The 15 best day trips from Los Angeles

Experience everything that SoCal has to offer with these day trip from Los Angeles to stunning nearby beaches, wineries and small towns

Photograph: Courtesy Shutterstock

L.A. is great and all, but sometimes you need a change of scenery. If you only have one day to spare, consider one of these quick day trips from Los Angeles to some amazing nearby destinations. Luckily, living in L.A. means it’s an easy (well, depending on traffic) and often  scenic drive  to SoCal’s best beaches , small towns, wineries and gorgeous desert landscapes—all within three hours of the city. Oddly enough, taking advantage of the ease with which you can get  out of L.A. is easily one of the best things to do  in L.A.

From wine tasting in Santa Barbara and  vintage hunting in Palm Springs to  camping  in Joshua Tree or feeling the sand between your toes in San Diego, you’re sure to find a short trip (as opposed to a longer road trip ) worth taking on this list. 

RECOMMENDED: The best weekend getaways from L.A.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top day trips from Los Angeles

1.  coronado.

2 hrs by car There’s a reason Coronado has topped lists of the country’s best beaches: Its wide shores never feel overcrowded, the soft, fine-grained sand is easily walkable and the weather is practically perfect. Just a quick ferry ride or bridge drive from San Diego, this wealthy peninsula has the feel of a resort town with the amenities that come from being near a major city.

The beachfront grounds of the regal, red-roofed Hotel del Coronado  are a must-visit, even if you can’t foot its pricey room reservations. Back in town, stop into hole-in-the-wall diner Clayton’s Coffee Shop for a quick meal or MooTime Creamery for frozen treats. Coronado is also home to a sizable naval base, and while you can’t exactly visit, you can spot fighter jets coming in for landings and submarines surfacing off the coast.  —Michael Juliano

2.  Ojai

1 hr 20 mins by car Ojai is a not-so-hidden gem close enough to L.A. for a day trip, but with a unique, relaxed feel that’s worlds away from busy city life. Start early with a decadent, hearty breakfast at Bonnie Lu’s , then stroll the town’s quaint main street; the antique shopping is great here, but relatively new school shops like Summer Camp are also worth a stop.

Tour an olive farm or a citrus grove, then grab an organic lunch at Farmer & the Cook . Alternatively, grab a a bite to go and explore the nearby trails in Los Padres National Forest , just north of town. If the weather is right, swimming holes abound along the Sespe Creek.

Back in civilization, check out Bart’s Books , an outdoor bookstore housed in an actual house (sans roof), or head up to Meditation Mount   (reservations required)  for incredible views, especially the famed “pink moment” at sunset.

Swing back to the center of town to explore its many wine tasting rooms, or grab a beer and a bite at Ojai Beverage Company . Chief’s Peak, the bar at Ojai Rancho Inn (where you should stay if your trip runs long), is a hip spot for an after-dinner drink; you’ll find more old-timers—and regular live music—at Deer Lodge down the road.  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Ojai

3.  Santa Barbara

1 hr 50 mins by car Santa Barbara is a scenic and worthy vacation destination regardless of your starting point, but we’re fortunate enough to have relatively easy access (granted that the L.A. traffic gods are working in our favor).

Stearns Wharf is a go-to spot to see the Pacific, and nearby is State Street, filled with tons of shops and people-watching opportunities. And the Wharf isn’t the only place to see the water: Butterfly Beach, a relatively private spot, is situated next to the Four Seasons Biltmore Hotel and faces west for ideal sunset-watching views.

Grab lunch at La Super-Rica Taqueria —famous for being one of Julia Child’s favorite eateries. The lines tend to be on the ridiculous side, but it’s worth the wait for novelty’s sake alone.

If you’re traveling with family, spend a few hours at the Santa Barbara Zoo   (reservations required) . Otherwise, grab a glass of Pinot Noir at one of the many tasting rooms along the Urban Wine Trail   (hours and status vary by winery) ; the spots are located in downtown Santa Barbara, steps from the Amtrak station, and source grapes from local vineyards.  —Seth Kelley

Discover the best things to do in Santa Barbara

4.  Laguna Beach

1 hr by car Forget what you know from a certain unfortunate MTV reality show: Laguna Beach is an easygoing oceanfront city graced with lush vegetation, tidepools and a picturesque rocky coastline.

Main Beach is the spot of choice for downtown sunbathing, but you’ll find pristine, less crowded beaches at tide pool-filled Treasure Island, camper-friendly Crystal Cove or hidden Victoria Beach with its weathered, castle-like turret.

Walk the city’s downtown area to find a mix of shops, galleries and restaurants; many eateries cater to the well heeled, so we suggest bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy on a bench at the hilltop Heisler Park. Do, however, follow the smell of fresh waffle cones onto the enchanting Peppertree Lane for a scoop from Gelato Paradiso .

It’s not just about the beach here; you can explore the reservation-only Hortense Miller Garden  or thousands of acres of hillsides and canyons to find hiking trails, nature centers and the Pacific Marine Mammal Center   (closed through fall 2024) , a sea lion rescue. Summertime typically sees the arrival of two festival favorites: Pageant of the Masters , a live stage interpretation of classical paintings, and Sawdust Art Festival , an open-air artisan market that transforms into a Christmas village in late fall. There’s only one road in and out from the 5, so bring some patience during rush hour—alternatively, take the scenic route and follow Coast Highway through Newport Beach.  —Michael Juliano

5.  Solvang

2 hrs by car After Danish immigrants grew tired of Midwestern winters, they began to make their way west and eventually settled in the pastoral Santa Ynez Valley. Though you won’t find many Danes in Solvang anymore, you will find wooden windmills, rural houses and a replica of Copenhagen’s Round Tower. The post-WWII structures are as touristy as they are charming; walk around town to find an assortment of Christmas shops, Hans Christian Andersen and Little Mermaid keepsakes, and sort-of-Danish bakeries.

Solvang’s downtown area is dotted with breweries and pancake cottages, including local standbys Solvang Brewing Company   and Paula’s Pancake House —and an increasingly impressive new culinary scene . For a bit of history on the area, make sure to stop by the humble Elverhøj Museum .

For a more offbeat adventure, head to the outskirts of town to  OstrichLand , which feels like the Jurassic Park of the ostrich and emu world. If you’re visiting in early January, make sure to schedule your trip around the annual Christmas tree bonfire . —Michael Juliano

6.  Balboa Island

1 hr by car, 5 min ferry

Visitors to Balboa Island in Newport Beach can enter the man-made island by driving onto it via Marine Avenue, but it’s far easier—and more fun—to park your car on the Balboa Peninsula and take the Balboa Island Ferry for a quick and scenic five-minute trip across the water.

The first order of business: getting your hands on one of the island’s famed frozen bananas (make the Bluth family proud). Choose from rivals Sugar N Spice or Dad’s Donut & Bakery Shop; both claim to be the originators of the chocolate-covered frozen treat.

Take a jaunt around the 1.6-mile boardwalk surrounding the island, passing by multi-million dollar homes and streets named after gems, before strolling down Marine Avenue, the island’s main artery. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants ( Wilma’s Patio is a staple), boutique shops, art galleries and the Balboa Island Museum and Historical Society .

Of course, there’s plenty to do out on the water, too: kayaking, parasailing, paddle boarding and the like. If you’ve got kiddos tagging along, the Balboa Fun Zone on the peninsula hosts a Ferris wheel and plenty of arcade games.  —Erin Kuschner

Discover the best things to do in Newport Beach

7.  Los Alamos

2 hrs 20 mins by car Once a major stagecoach stop, this small, easy-to-miss town looks stuck in the past with its Old West style—but behind the facade are trendy treasures waiting to be discovered. Inside Bob’s Well Bread Bakery is a hip, stylish setup serving artisan breads—including gluten free options—croissants, sandwiches and more. Exploring antique shops and art galleries can easily fill a day here, just be sure to call ahead, as some places are only open on weekends.

A big draw of the Los Alamos area is its wine tasting—this is Santa Barbara County, after all—which can be done at Bedford Winery  and other local tasting rooms. Before you leave town, make a pit stop at  1880 Union , an event space with an authentic stagecoach saloon, or spend the night at the Victorian Mansion Bed and Breakfast . For being a single stoplight town (we haven’t actually counted, but you get it), there’s a bevy of delicious places to eat, such as  Full of Life Flatbread (known for its occasional A-list diners) and the destination-worthy Bell’s .  —Stephanie Morino

8.  San Juan Capistrano

1 hr 30 min by car, 1 hr 25 min by train A piece of California history and a quaint old town make San Juan Capistrano an off-the-beaten-path day trip with a lot of charm and a little learning. If you take Amtrak there, the train will drop you off right where you want to be—just a couple of blocks from a good cup of coffee at Hidden House Coffee .

From there, you can tour Mission San Juan Capistrano , founded in 1776 and arguably one of the mission chain’s prettiest links. The mission used to be known as a migratory destination for swallows in February, but the famous birds have been spotty in recent years. If you have your heart set on getting up close with some animals, check out Zoomars   (reservations recommended) , a petting zoo for kids of all ages (read: adults love it, too). It’s a historic ranch where you can also pan for gold like the California miners did. You’re also near Los Rios Historic District , which has some historic homes and museums that are perfect for a walking tour.

When you get hungry, you have several options: Heritage Barbecue serves remarkable Texas-style smoked meats,  Ramos House is a romantic spot known for great food and huge Bloody Marys on the weekends and  Five Vines is a nearby wine bar with snacks and sandwiches. If you want to catch a later train, head over to Swallow’s Inn , the local dive bar, where bras hang from the ceiling and bands play late into the night. You’re still within stumbling distance of the train station.  —Sara Fay

9.  Oak Glen

1 hr 30 mins by car

Though you can visit Oak Glen year-round, the best time to head to this picturesque town to the east is September through November. The five-mile loop of orchards, ranches, shops and restaurants is a necessity for any New England transplant looking for fall foliage, and the town’s most popular activity— apple picking —is a nice alternative to canvassing L.A.’s farmers’ markets.

Many of the orchards, like Willowbrook Apple Farm  (opens Labor Day weekend), offer a cider press to make your own cider, which you can pair with a cinnamon roll or apple dumpling from Apple Annie’s Restaurant & Bakery . Stop by the Turquoise Pueblo  on your way back to L.A. for some beautiful handmade Native American jewelry.  —Erin Kuschner

10.  Solana Beach

2 hrs by car, or 2 hrs by train

If you want to spend a day in San Diego, you can either try to go big (the San Diego Zoo! Balboa Park!  Padres game! All in one day!) or go small-town and spend a chill day in a cool oceanfront neighborhood. The beach towns north of San Diego—no, we’re not talking about Pacific Beach—are the stuff of the Beach Boys lyrics.

In Solana Beach, you’ll find laid-back vibes and beaches that aren’t completely overrun. It’s easy to get there from L.A. via Amtrak, and it’s a perfect way to day-trip because all the spots you’ll want to hit are within walking distance of the station.

Start at  the Naked Cafe for a beach-y brunch, then, either head down to the beach at Fletcher Cove or cruise along the Cedros Design District for window shopping, brewery hopping and people watching. There’s also a mix of cute boutiques, surf shops, restaurants, taco spots and bars along South Coast Highway. If it’s racing season, the Del Mar Racetrack  isn’t far—it would be either a long walk or a short car ride.

Before you catch the train back up to L.A., you have several good options for dinner near the tracks: Station Sushi is a solid locals’ spot for classic and creative rolls, Bangkok Bay  has some of the best Thai food we’ve ever eaten and Pizza Port is known for being a last-slice-and-beer-before-Amtrak place. It’s directly across a pedestrian crosswalk from the train station, and has been slinging pies and pouring pints for three decades.  —Sara Fay

If the San Diego Zoo caught your eye, book a ticket and spend a day with the animals.

11.  Temecula

When hoofing it to Napa and Sonoma isn’t an option, Temecula is your next best destination for a day of wine tasting. Before sampling the grapes, stop by quaint Old Town Temecula, where you can pay a visit to the Temecula Valley Museum  for a historical walking tour.

Then it’s down to business; the heart of Temecula’s Wine Country includes more than 30 wineries, which you can bounce between at your own leisure (don’t drink and drive, folks!) or take a guided tour from one of the many wine tour companies in the area. Taste your way through the 70-acre Wilson Creek Winery and the red-focused Monte De Oro Winery   before heading to Maurice Car’rie Vineyard  for an educated tasting and a loaf of the vineyard’s famous sourdough bread, oozing with brie.

Just down the road, Magical Adventure Balloon Rides encapsulates another popular Temecula activity: riding in a hot air balloon. We can’t think of a better way to end your day in Temecula than by sailing over the town’s vineyards at sunset with a glass of Champagne in hand. —Erin Kuschner

12.  Palm Springs

2 hrs by car Known for its ultra-fancy resorts and legacy of celebrity residents, Palm Springs is worth at least a weekend, if you can afford the time. Still, if you’re limited to 24 hours, make the desert city a choose-your-own-adventure day trip.

Start with brunch at Cheeky’s , and trust us that it’s worth the wait. If you’re in the mood to exercise, check out Indian Canyons , made up of three separate canyons (Palm, Murray and Andreas) that each offer hiking trails and fantastic views of the diverse landscape. Another of the best ways to see Palm Springs is on the Aerial Tramway , which helps visitors escape the heat of the desert with a scenic ride to the top of the San Jacinto Mountains.

If relaxation is your goal, shop at the outlets in Cabazon, or just get a massage and sit by the pool. The Palm Springs Art Museum  is small but displays works from incredible artists including Picasso and Warhol. For dinner, try reservations at Sandfish  for superb sushi and Japanese whiskey.  —Seth Kelley

Discover the best  things to do in Palm Springs

13.  Big Bear

2 hrs by car; access may be limited during the winter This mountain town is home to some of L.A.’s closest ski slopes in winter, but don’t discount a summertime trip, when a dip in a mountain lake is the best way to keep cool. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to tour the water, and keep an eye out for the white-domed Big Bear Solar Observatory perched at the water’s edge on the north shore. The hiking here is also plentiful and offers some amazing views.

If you’re a bit more adventurous, stop by Bear Valley Bikes and rent a mountain bike; there are fire roads for beginners and lots of technical, downhill single track for more seasoned riders.

Back in town, check out the Bowling Barn  and the Alpine Slide , both of which are a blast with or without kids in tow. For a drink with the locals, head to karaoke night (which is pretty much every night) at Murray’s Saloon , the town’s self-proclaimed “five star hole in the wall.”  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Big Bear

14.  Joshua Tree

2 hrs 15 mins by car You’ll find Joshua Tree National Park on our shortlist for perfect day trips, road trips and weekend getaways from L.A. That’s for good reason: the magical desert spot—with its gnarled, ancient namesake trees, picturesque cacti and giant boulders—should be on every traveler’s bucket list, no matter how much time they have to spare.

Watch rock climbers scale mini-mountains at  Hidden Valley campground (first-come, first-served) or try some scrambling yourself at Jumbo Rocks . If you visit in spring, head south to Pinto Basin for a chance to see colorful wildflowers in bloom.

On the drive out, plan for a pit stop at the Cabazon exit, where you can explore the famed dinosaur park from Pee Wee’s Big Adventure (and even, for a fee, climb inside the three-story T. Rex for a photo op in his mouth). Shop for cacti at multiple roadside marts on Twentynine Palms Highway, or hang a left at Pioneertown Road for a stop at Pappy & Harriet’s , which boasts a ghost town, small inn and great live music.

Another worthwhile detour is Landers, home of countless alien sightings and new-age sound baths at the  Integratron   (reservations required) . In the town of Joshua Tree, take your pick from a few tasty restaurants, including Crossroads Cafe   to rub elbows with locals. There are some good thrift shops around here, as well as the kind of quirky public art; be sure to check out the World Famous Crochet Museum , as well as prolific artist Andrea Zittel’s A-Z West tour.  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Joshua Tree .

15.  Salton Sea and Slab City

3 hrs by car This day trip isn’t for everyone; but if you’re a fan of things decrepit, forgotten and way off the beaten path, head south to Bombay Beach at the Salton Sea. A popular vacation spot in the ’50s and ’60s, these days all that’s left of the once-booming seaside town are photo-worthy ruins and a lot of dead fish.

The Ski Inn remains; stop by for a drink or a greasy bite and decorate a dollar bill to hang on the wall or ceiling. Continue on to Niland, made famous by artist Leonard Knight’s Salvation Mountain , a giant folk art monument made from adobe, straw and thousands of gallons of paint (you may remember it from Into the Wild ). Beyond is Slab City, a former marine training base that now exists as a squat for campers, transients and desert dwellers who’ve created a community complete with a library, skate park and live music stage, “the Range.” If you’re respectful and friendly, folks may share their hot spring and swimming hole secrets, so bring a bathing suit—or do as the locals do and go in your birthday suit.  —Kate Wertheimer

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May 7 Solo Trip to San Diego: 15 of the Best Things To Do Alone in San Diego

Planning a solo trip to San Diego? Don’t miss out on these fun things to do alone in San Diego, California.

From wildlife watching to beach hopping to museums and historic villages, San Diego has so much to do. The Pacific Coast city in Southern California is known for its sun-soaked beaches and amusement attractions that travelers from all over the world. The city is also perfect for a solo getaway, which I got to experience on a recent trip.

With so many fun things to do in San Diego alone, it can be hard to know where to start. You could spend your entire vacation relaxing at the beaches in La Jolla, bike around Coronado Island, go museum hopping in Balboa Park, or hike out to the tip of Point Loma. 

The list below of the best things to do in San Diego alone has a little bit of everything, so you should be able to find several ideas that fit your interests. If you want to do ALL of them, you’ll probably need to be in the city for at least four or five days, but you can pick just a few to fill a weekend in San Diego. 

Solo Travel San Diego With the Go City Pass

Things to do in san diego alone.

If you’re looking for the best things to do alone in San Diego, you can’t go wrong with these museums, historic sites, tours, and outdoor activities.

Board a City Cruise

A cruise in the bay is such a great introduction to the city on a solo trip to San Diego. Narrated tours introduce you to the wildlife, landmarks, and history of the area, and you really can’t beat the views of the skyline from the water.

You can book either route as a one-hour tour or combine them for a longer trip. The boat docks briefly in between each one to load and unload passengers. There are also snacks and beverages to order on the boat.

Wander Old Town San Diego

The Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is one of the best free things to do in San Diego alone. Part living history museum and part shopping and dining district, the park is laid out like a village in Old Town San Diego.

History buffs will want to pop into the preserved buildings that date as far back as 1820. You can watch live demonstrations at the Blacksmith Shop, see old carriages at the Seeley Stable, visit the first San Diego Courthouse, and tour the period-furnished rooms at La Casa de Estudillo. If you really want to get immersed in the 19th century, you can even stay at the onsite Cosmopolitan Hotel, which has served as a restaurant, stagecoach office, and olive cannery over its nearly 200 years of history.

The state historic park attractions are only open during the day, but there are shops and restaurants that have more extended hours and the site is pretty open to walk around, explore, and take photos. Most of the shops here are also housed in old-timey buildings, like the Rust General Store where you can grab coffee and snacks, the Cousin’s Candy Shops with handmade taffy, and the Johnson House for vintage jewelry and fashion.

You also don’t want to miss the Fiesta del Reyes shopping center, which houses a popular Mexican restaurant and live music. It’s easy to spend at least a couple of hours in this area during a San Diego solo trip, or longer if you want to tour all the available museums and houses.

This is the ultimate one day in San Diego itinerary

Spend a Day at Balboa Park

Balboa Park is one of the best places to go in San Diego alone. There is so much to do here that you can devote at least a full day (or more) to the many attractions. The San Diego Zoo is perhaps the most famous landmark in the park, but don’t skip out on the trails, gardens, and museums. 

I spent a very full day here visiting the San Diego Museum of Art, Mingei International Museum, San Diego Natural History Museum, Spanish Village Art Center, and Japanese Friendship Garden. And that was barely scratching the surface of the available activities! 

Some of the other 18 museums here include the San Diego Air and Space Museum, the Comic-Con Museum, the Fleet Science Center, and the Museum of Us for anthropology exhibits. There are also performance venues like The Old Globe theater and the Spreckles Organ Pavilion, which hosts outdoor concerts. 

A few of my favorite things to do in Balboa Park are further down this list!

Best summer escapes from big cities

Stroll the Japanese Friendship Garden

The Japanese Friendship Garden at Balboa Park is such a peaceful setting to start or end the day. I visited in the late afternoon to enjoy the soft lighting on the koi ponds and flowers during my solo trip to San Diego. 

The garden has a network of gentle walking paths around the bonsai trees and water features, plus spots to sit and reflect. The plants here are native to either San Diego or Japan, and the facility also runs special programs and exhibits to educate visitors on Japanese culture. 

A small garden cafe just outside the entrance gate serves Japanese teas, rice bowls, miso soup, sushi, and other small bites.

Visit the San Diego Museum of Art

The San Diego Museum of Art is one of the best things to do in San Diego alone for art aficionados. The permanent collection here includes art from Iran, Southeast Asia, and Germany, as well as displays on Impressionism, Expressionism, and Realism. There are also beautiful landscape paintings of California scenery that I wanted to take home with me!

Keep an eye on the museum’s website for changing featured exhibits, I got to tour one on modern female artists which highlighted some very creative mediums. 

See the Mingei International Museum Collection

The Mingei International Museum has displays of folk arts and crafts from around the world. It’s the perfect art museum to visit if you’re short on time, as the gallery here is much smaller than the San Diego Museum of Art.

Located in a historic building in Balboa Park, the museum has some free displays on the ground level and a ticketed gallery with changing exhibits on the second level. There’s also an art library with over 12,000 books and journals and upper-level terraces with views over Balboa Park. 

When I visited, I got to see the 25 Million Stitches Show, a powerful display on the global refugee crisis. It’s touring, so I recommend looking up where else you may be able to see it after it leaves the Mingei.

Explore the House of Pacific Relations

Travel lovers will have fun wandering around the country-themed cottages at the House of Pacific Relations in Balboa Park. The free attraction has 31 small houses in a village setting, each representing a different culture with interior displays about the traditions and history. 

The project began at the 1935 California Pacific International Exposition as an effort to promote peaceful cooperation between the member groups. It has grown to include more cultures over the years. 

The open houses and cultural programs take place on Saturdays and Sundays when you can try global cuisine, catch traditional music and dance performances, and join in arts and crafts demos. It’s worth stopping by if you’re only around on a weekday to see if any of the cottages are staffed. I was able to pop into a few during the week even though most were closed.

Tour the USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum is one of the city’s top attractions and a great thing to do in San Diego alone if you’re interested in naval history. Located at Navy Pier downtown, the museum is housed on a former aircraft carrier and has a collection of more than 30 restored planes and helicopters.

In addition to seeing all the historic aircraft up close, you can also tour the different ship quarters to see where the crew bunked, worked, and ate on board.

Admission includes an audio tour you can use to explore the flight deck, hangar deck, and the below-deck galleys and engine room. The museum recommends spending at least two to four hours on the self-guided audio tour.

Sightsee in the San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter is in the heart of downtown San Diego, stretching inland for a few blocks from the harbor. Full of cocktail lounges, dive bars, and entertainment venues, it’s a great spot to meet up with friends or go out solo to enjoy the nightlife. 

During the day, you can come here to sightsee and eat; global cuisine infuses the district in a mix of both chain eateries and locally owned spots. If you’re into the performing arts, check the schedules at Spreckels Theatre and Balboa Theatre — both venues date to the early 1900s and host live plays, concerts, ballets, and other shows. Exploring the Gaslamp Quarter is one of the top things to do in San Diego alone.

Check out Cabrillo National Monument

The only National Park Service site in San Diego County, Cabrillo National Monument sits at the scenic tip of Point Loma, a peninsula that juts into the Pacific. Established to commemorate the 1542 landing of explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in San Diego, the park is notable for its statue and lighthouse that overlooks the bay.

You also don’t want to miss the tide pools on the west side of the park. If you want to hike, the park has two main trails — the 2.5-mile Bayside Trail that follows an old military road down to the water, and the steep 1-mile Coastal Trail with access to the tide pools and an old searchlight shelter from World War II along the way. 

These are the best things to do on a girls trip to San Diego!

Hang Out in Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is a fun spot to hang out on the coast with a fishing pier, sandy beachfront, and a historic business district packed with shops and eateries. The neighborhood has a boho vibe, drawing surfers and the young at heart.

For a classic experience, head straight for Drum Circle Beach, where free spirits gather to read tarot cards, slackline, hula hoop, and make music. If you want to fully immerse in the atmosphere, the crowd is welcoming. I just picked up a pizza from Pizza Port Ocean Beach to eat on the sand around sunset with the buzz of the atmosphere in the background.

Hike in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

If you’re looking for outdoorsy things to do alone in San Diego, you don’t want to miss Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve . Located on the coast, the park has trails that lead to overlooks atop ridges with views of the jagged coastline. You can also hike down to the waterfront at low tide, though it can be dangerous to get too close to the bluffs as collapses and rockslides occur without warning. Pay close attention to signs and warnings in the park.

There are lots of short hikes in the park that lead to different viewpoints and you can combine some for a longer loop. I did a route of nearly 2.5 miles on the Razor Point and Beach trails to the Razor Point and Yucca Point lookouts and down to the oceanfront. 

The park is almost 20 miles north of downtown and definitely worth the day trip.

Bike or Kayak on Coronado Island

Across the bay from downtown San Diego, Coronado Island was only accessible by ferry until the Coronado Bridge was opened in 1969. The island is still a bit of an enclave, thanks to its separation from the mainland, and makes a fun day trip to check out the beautiful beaches and historic downtown.

Check out the Beaches in La Jolla 

La Jolla is a beautiful area to visit or stay in on a solo trip to San Diego. Located along the rugged Pacific coastline just south of Torrey Pines, it offers stunning beaches, a pier, golf courses, and a cute seaside village for boutique shopping and dining.

Spending a day in La Jolla is one of the best things to do in San Diego alone.

Soak Up the View at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

As the name implies, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is the perfect spot to watch the sunset one evening on your solo trip to San Diego. The bluffs stretch along the western coast of Point Loma, with sea caves and rock arches adding to the scenery. You can sometimes even see migrating whales and other sea life.

The park consists of 68 acres stretching down the coast to link up with the Point Loma Ecological Reserve. The easiest section to visit is the northern 18 acres between Adair and Ladera streets along Sunset Cliffs Boulevard to the south of Ocean Beach. There are a few small parking lots and some street parking throughout the area, but it’s a crowded and popular spot. A larger lot is on the south end of Sunset Cliffs Boulevard. 

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RVing with Rex

Living his dream, Rex Vogel is a Snowbird with a passion for RVing, photography, hiking, and birding.

The 10 Best Day Trips in Southern California

Did your favorite Southern California experience make the list?

Home to so many large urban centers, Southern California is also incredibly rich in diverse ecosystems that range from deserts to mountaintops. Small charming towns provide a wonderful, relaxing destination in their own right while national and state parks offer active recreation but also an opportunity to get close to the natural world.

Palm Springs

Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Palm Springs is known for its healing hot springs, luxury hotels, world-class golf courses, and pampering spas. Palm Springs has a number of great mid-century modern architecture examples especially in its downtown shopping district on Palm Canyon Drive.

Just outside the city is Coachella Valley with excellent trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the top of San Jacinto Peak for spectacular views of the city. Visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens to see what thrives in the sparse desert ecosystem. Enjoy the 1938 Palm Springs Art Museum to learn about regional art, performing arts, and natural science.

Julian is a charming historic town and a popular mountain getaway in the scenic Cuyamaca Mountains. Julian was in the heart of the only San Diego gold rush when gold was found in a local creek in early 1870. The gold rush did not last long but many miners stayed to farm the rich land. Many remnants from the gold rush era are still standing and visitors can travel back in time by visiting the historic 1870 buildings.

Related: Out and About In Southern California

Gold made Julian, but apples made Julian famous. Its legendary crop won first prize at two World’s Fairs and is still the reason many visitors flock to this mountain town. No trip to Julian would be complete without digging into a slice of the town’s famed apple pie .

Old Town Temecula

Located in the heart of Temecula , the Old Town district is a unique blend of historic buildings, shops, restaurants, museums, hotels, weekly farmers’ markets, and special events in one walkable area. History buffs can wander the streets viewing rustic buildings, sidewalks, and storefronts reminiscent of the historic golden west in the 1880s. Take a step back in time and stroll along the wooden boardwalks past rustic western-era buildings, antique shops, and specialty boutiques.

Cabot’s Pueblo Museum

Cabot’s Pueblo Museum is a house museum in Desert Hot Springs. A large, Hopi-style pueblo was built in the Pueblo revival style by homesteader and adventurer Cabot Abram Yerxa in the early 20th century. The four-story 5,000-square-foot house was entirely hand-made from found and reclaimed objects and has 35 rooms, 65 doors, and 150 windows.

The house museum is a fascinating portrait of the life adventures of Cabot Yerxa and his family. It includes many household artifacts collected during their adventures through the Dakota Territory, Mexico, Alaska, Cuba, France, California, and the Southwest. There are also many artworks from Alaska Native and Native American cultures as well as curious memorabilia of desert homesteaders’ life.

Related: California’s Timeless Getaway: Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park has two distinct desert ecosystems, the high Mojave Desert and the lower Colorado Desert. It is home to an incredible diversity of plants and is characterized by stark, empty desert landscapes and rugged and colorful rock formations.

The park got its name for one of the most common trees in the region: The twisted, strange-looking, bristly Joshua tree. The incredible beauty and strange energy of the place have long attracted painters, musicians, and other artistic types.

Today, the park offers all kinds of adventures, from exploring the Indian Cove Nature Trail to rock climbing at Echo Cove or any of over 8,000 climbs and 400 rock formations to strolling through the magical Cholla Cactus Garden.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert , the largest state park in California, and was established in 1933 to protect unique and fragile desert ecosystems. The park is framed by rugged ranges of the Bucksnorts, the Santa Rosas, the Jacumba Mountains, the Vallecito Mountains, the Pinyon Mountains, the Anza-Borrego Mountains, and the Carrizo Badlands.

More than 500 miles of roads run through the park, over rocky hills, deep sands, cool streams, and steep hills, some requiring an off-road vehicle. The park includes some of the warmest temperatures in the country as well as rich 6,000-year-old archaeological findings. Visiting the park in the spring will award visitors with a spectacular mosaic of wildflowers. The park is home to many animals including mountain lions, coyotes, and bighorn sheep.

Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge

As a US congressman from California, Sonny Bono fought for funding to save the Salton Sea which suffers from water depletion, pollution, and too much salinity. The refuge was established in 1930 as a breeding ground for birds and wild animals and was renamed to honor Bono after he died in a skiing accident in 1998. 

Related: Spotlight on California: Most Beautiful Places to Visit

Over 400 bird species, 41 species of mammals, 18 species of reptiles, four species of amphibians, and 15 species of fish have been recorded on the refuge. The refuge features a visitor center, an observation tower, and a trail that climbs to the top of a small inactive volcano—two miles out and back.

Temecula Valley Wine Country

For many visitors, the Temecula Valley Wine Country is a surprise. After all, a lot of people just don’t expect to see gently rolling hills blanketed with rows of vineyards in Southern California. But the Temecula Valley has been producing top wines since the 1970s. And like the best vintages, this wine country just gets better with age.

It’s a diverse growing region, home to everything from cooler climate grapes like Chardonnay to such warm-weather loving varieties as Syrah and Grenache. The tasting experience is varied, too. Visit posh wineries with lavish restaurants overlooking the vines and summer concerts featuring top performers.

Coachella Valley Preserve

One of the most unique places in the Coachella Valley is the Coachella Valley Preserve . The 17,000-acre site has 25 miles of hiking trails and is home to the spectacular Thousand Palm Oasis which is fed by water seeping out of the San Andreas Fault.

There are also several other palm oases including the Willis, Hidden Horseshoe, and Indian Palms. Located in the center is the Paul Wilhelm Grove which is also the location of the Preserve’s visitor’s center. The preserve has several hiking trails including the McCallum, Hidden Palms, Moon Country, Pushawalla Palms, and Willis Palms.

Related: Road-tripping on California’s Less-traveled Lanes

Monsters in the Desert

The desert landscape near Borrego Springs has been changed forever by the appearance of prehistoric creatures that pop up alongside the roadside. The original steel welded sculptors , the craft of artist/welder Ricardo Breceda, began arriving in April 2008 on Dennis Avery’s private parcel of land known as Galleta Meadows Estate.

There are now over 130 meticulously crafted metal sculptures sprinkled throughout the small town of Borrego Springs. Elephants, raptors, mammoths, sloths, and saber-toothed tigers prowl the desert off Borrego Springs Road north and south of the town proper. From ground-hugging desert tortoises to rearing horses, each rust-colored sculpture is filled with intricate detail–from the curling eyelashes of 10-foot high elephants to the shaved metal fur of the equally imposing sloths.

Worth Pondering…

Trampled in dust I’ll show you a place high on the desert plain where the streets have no name, where the streets have no name …

— Joshua Tree , sung by U2, 1987

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Top Ten Southern California Day Trips

April 12, 2023 by DayTrippen

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With so many destinations on Daytrippen.com, we decided to list our top ten Southern California day trips. All these trips can be made in one day from just about anywhere in SoCal.  This list is not in any particular order and may change occasionally. If we have missed your favorite Southern California day trip or have visited any of these destinations, let us know in the comment section below.

Oak Glen Day Trip San Bernardino Mountains

Oak Glen is a year-round day trip destination, although it is most prevalent during the fall apple harvest. Apple season is at its peak in the fall from September until the end of November.  Many of the local farms and orchards feature U-Pick apples and pumpkins. For folks that live near San Diego, Julian makes a great day trip for apple picking. If you’re traveling along the central coast, there is a lovely spot to pick apples inland from Avila Beach  called See Canyon . Oak Glen is located in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains , about an hour and a half from

Palm Springs Day Trip

With so many things to do in and around Palm Springs, you will want to make several trips to this desert oasis. Year-round sunshine, shopping, outdoor activities, and spectacular scenery make Palm Springs one of our top ten-day trip destinations. Take an exciting trip on the Palm Springs Tram , enjoy shopping and dining along Palm Canyon Drive , or explore hidden palm oases in  Indian Canyons . For kids, a trip to the Living Desert Zoo is a must-do. And a delicious date shake at Shields Date Garden is the perfect way to end your day.

Santa Barbara Day Trip

Santa Barbara is about 90 miles north of Los Angeles, within day-trip distance from LA or Orange County . Santa Barbara offers so many things to do, and seeing it will keep you coming back for more. Popular Santa Babara attractions include miles of fantastic beaches, Santa Barbara Zoo , Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara Mission , and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden . Drive or take Amtrak Pacific Surfliner to Santa Barbara for a fantastic day trip.

Catalina Island Day Trip

Catalina Island is located just 26 miles off the coast of Southern California, southwest of Los Angeles. Catalina Island has been a popular day-trip destination for nearly 100 years, with something to offer everyone. Seaside restaurants, rent a kayak or paddleboat, Wrigley Botanical Gardens for a peaceful stroll, scenic city, and island tours . Catalina Island is a fun family day trip or romantic weekend getaway.  Catalina Express runs ferries to the island out of Dana Point, Long Beach, and San Pedro.

Julian Day Trip

One of the most popular activities in Julian is apple picking. During the short apple harvest, the town tends to be overrun with visitors, so we recommend visiting at any other time. Julian was once a booming hub during California’s gold rush. Today the town is a bustling tourist destination with a shopping district, gold mine tours , and bakeries selling fresh Julian apple pies. Julian is located about sixty miles from downtown San Diego , California.

San Diego Zoo Day Trip

The San Diego Zoo is enormous, with over 100 acres of park to explore. Unique among major Southern California attractions as the San Diego Zoo does not charge for parking. If you are looking for a Safari Adventure , the San Digo Zoo has you covered. Balboa Park , adjacent to the zoo is located also features a full day of fun activities. With so much to do and see and the zoo, it was easy to feature the Zoo on our top ten Southern California day trips.

Griffith Park Day Trip

Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States. The park is often called the “Central Park” of California. The centerpiece of the area is the Griffith Park Observatory . Other attractions include the Los Angeles Zoo and the Hollywood Sign. Kids will find plenty to do in Griffith Park, including Travel Town Museum , Griffith Park & Southern Railroad, pony rides, and Los Angeles Live Steamers train rides. Nearby attractions include downtown Hollywood and Beverly Hills .

Los Angeles Chinatown Day Trip

Dozens of restaurants, herbal shops, and temples with pagoda rooftops make up a tiny Asian world with its residents zigzagging their way through the ocean of day-trippers and residents. A nice thing about a day trip to LA Chinatown is that there are two equally attractive destinations within a few minutes walk or drive. Olvera Street is only a five-minute walk, and Little Tokyo is easily reached on the Metro Gold Line in less than ten minutes. Visit one or all these exciting places located in downtown Los Angeles .

Heritage Valley Day Trip

Not that far from the hustle-bustle of the big city lies the Heritage Valley. Take a trip back in time along Highway 126 as it passes through Piru, Fillmore, and Santa Paula. The highlight of any journey through the Heritage Valley is taking a trip onboard the Fillmore and Western Railway . Another popular stop as you travel through the valley is Bennett’s Honey Farm . A journey through the Heritage Valley from Santa Clarita to Ventura is 44 miles and will take approximately 2 hours.

Solvang Day Trip Santa Ynez Valley

Solvang, a Danish village in the Santa Ynez Valley, is among our top ten Southern California day trips. Day-trippers come to see the Danish windmills, half-timbered houses, the Danish rural church, Round Tower, Danish music, and folk dancing. Solvang gets busy on weekends & Holidays, but it is worth mixing in with all the tourists. Numerous Danish Bakeries offer tasty delights that are sure to please. In town and nearby are wine-tasting rooms and vineyards. And if you want to try your luck in a casino, Solvang has that too.

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This Rare Earth

A travel resource for the adventurous and often-solo female

Solo Female Travel in California – Where to Go Alone

California , Blog , North America , Solo Travel , USA / March 6, 2023 by Monica / Leave a Comment

Solo female travel in California can’t be beat! As a California local for many years, I am no stranger to solo travel and solo trips in California. If you are looking for all the best places to go alone, California has a lot to offer. Read on for the best of solo female travel in Southern California, Central California, and Northern California below.

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I’ve written about solo female travel all over the world, but – it recently dawned on me. I have neglected to write about this topic in my own home state! Which is wild, because I travel California as a solo female all the time .

California is one of my favorite states because it has so much to offer for solo travelers. Breathtaking natural sights like deserts and oceans and mountains… huge cities to explore… and small coastal towns that are totally worth their hype.

If you’re embarking on solo female travel in California, do I have some suggestions for you! Here is everything you can’t miss when traveling in California, solo.

You May Also Like: California Themed Gift Ideas

Table of Contents

Here are all of the places to go and things to see as a solo female traveling in California. This post is split into three sections – Solo Female Travel in Southern California, Central California, and Northern California. Let’s go!

Pro Tip: Be sure to check out my top  travel safety items  and gear. This list covers everything from pickpocket-proof gear, personal safety, health and wellness, and more.

Solo Female Travel in Southern California

1. Joshua Tree National Park

I am kicking off this list with one of my favorite places on the planet – Joshua Tree National Park . If you love the desert, solitude, and awe-inspiring landscapes then this one is for you.

This 1235 square miles section of land was only established as a National Park in 1994! It is located roughly 2.5 hours from both Los Angeles and San Diego, making it a perfect mini-escape from either destination.

Joshua Tree truly makes you feel like you’re on another planet. The wild and spiky plant life seems unnatural; the panoramic views are filled with round and random boulders; and, the quietude just before sunrise is so peaceful.

Joshua Tree National Park receives roughly 2.5 million visitors every year. It is open 24 hours a day, and camping inside the park is an experience not to be missed. The endless sea of stars in the sky will remind you just how small we are.

If you are new to hiking in the desert, plan ahead by reading my desert hiking gear guide .

Pro Tip: if you want to learn about the history and ecology of this amazing park, download this Joshua Tree audio guide . I recently used it when my family was in town and it was a great introduction for their first visit to the park! Get the audio tour here .

• When To Go: Avoid June – September if you are concerned about high heat.
• Where To Stay: If camping is not for you, check out the most-booked hotel in Twentynine Palms, the Fairfield Inn .
• Be Aware: There is a $30 entrance fee per car to get into the park.

2. Palm Springs

Palm Springs is another desert town and is actually not very far from Joshua Tree. However, Palm Springs has more of a lively town, offering everything from an art museum to an outdoor mall to loads of trendy restaurants.

But, Palm Springs also has a very retro feel, with much of the original architecture and design elements shining through.

This is also the perfect spot for anyone who loves to hike. The Indian Canyons Golf Resort owns acres of natural land, and one of my favorite hikes in the area; Andreas Canyon . Or, check out Tahquitz Canyon for more desert scenery.

It is easy to combine a trip to Joshua Tree with a trip to Palm Springs. Check out my post on 24 Hours in Palm Springs for more ideas!

• When To Go: June – September will be in the triple digits, but most hotels will have a refreshing pool.
• Where To Stay: Palm Springs has so many options – but if you want Southwest Chic, check out Les Cactus .
• Be Aware: Palm Springs is popular for golfers, hikers, and spring breakers. Spring break may be a bit louder than some desire, so avoid that time frame if you don’t want to party.

3. Santa Barbara

Next let’s head out of the desert and into a more Mediterranean climate. Santa Barbara is the perfect escape about 1.5 hours from Los Angeles. At every turn, you’ll see towering palm trees, beautiful architecture, and seaside views.

Santa Barbara has an artsy side, too. The aptly named Funk Zone is filled with artist galleries and studios, as well as small breweries and restaurants.

If you’d like to take in some nature, consider the Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens for everything from redwoods to cacti to flowers.

East Beach is a great place to relax to the sounds of the ocean or jump in on a game of volleyball.

Or, take a short drive to the Gaviota Wind Caves hike and an epic view of the Pacific.

• When To Go: May and June might be foggy, so avoid them if you can.
• Where To Stay: Check out The Beachside Inn which is a 5 minute walk from the beach.
• Be Aware: Santa Barbara can be fairly pricey most of the year. Plan ahead if you can and know that there are plenty of cheap but tasty eateries.

An essential spot on any California solo travel itinerary, Malibu is a quiet oceanside town roughly thirty minutes outside of downtown Los Angeles.

There’s quite a lot to explore in Malibu for every type of traveler. If you need some beach time, plan on visiting the gorgeous El Matador State Beach . If you want to go hiking, check out the wild Leo Carrillo State Park’s trails. And, if you crave civilization, then check out the Malibu Country Mart for shopping and food.

For more details on all of the above activities, check out my detailed Malibu post !

Pro Tip: Prefer a tour guide instead? No problem! Consider this VW bus sightseeing tour . You’ll see all of the iconic spots and taste authentic Malibu wines. Book your tour here !

• When To Go: Anytime excluding January through March; it can get a bit cold and rainy.
• Where To Stay: I recommend camping at Leo Carrillo to get the best bang for your buck as a solo traveler. Malibu hotels are expensive!
• Be Aware: Parking is generally free along the PCH , but you’ll need to get there early in summer to find a spot.

5. Anza Borrego Desert State Park

Anza Borrego Desert State Park sprawls across more than 500,000 acres, making it the largest state park in the contiguous United States. Wow!

This desert escape was named an International Dark Sky Park in 2018, meaning that it’s the perfect spot for stargazing. Far enough away from San Diego, it gets little to no light pollution. On a clear night, you will see an endless expanse of stars in the night sky!

In the daytime, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking. My favorite trail is hands-down The Slot , but I was also a big fan of the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail , too. From wildflowers to palm groves, cacti to bighorn sheep, this state park features the desert at it’s finest.

Pro Tip: Anza Borrego is great for any solo traveler because camping in much of this park is free. That’s right, completely free! Just follow park guidelines for a hassle-free visit.

• When To Go: Anza Borrego is great from October through April, but you can visit year-round. Just be aware that in the summer, you’ll have high heat and in the winter, camping might get quite cold.
• Where To Stay: Camp! Just try it! If it’s really not for you, I can recommend the Borrego Springs Resort and Spa .
• Be Aware: Some areas of the park require 4WD. You can see plenty from a regular car though – don’t let that scare you away!

6. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Torrey Pines State Park is my new favorite Southern California spot. I recently spent a full day exploring and hiking the trails , as well as relaxing at the beaches. There is a lot to see here!

The 2,000 acres of wild and rugged coastline sits in the community of La Jolla, a very popular spot covered in cliffs and epic ocean views. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is one of the most pristine and untouched stretches of land near San Diego.

The Torrey pine tree itself is endemic to the California coast. It is critically endangered, and this is one of the few spots that you can still see this awesome tree.

• When To Go: Year round!
• Where To Stay: You can go luxury or basic, but here is a mid range option: The Hampton Inn .
• Be Aware: There is a $10 per car fee and the park opens at 8am.

7. San Diego

There is a lot to see in San Diego!

The sunny beaches, the green parks and the pleasantly warm climate all year round can’t be beat.

Some must-see places include:

• Balboa Park for the San Diego Zoo or artist studios.
• The Gaslamp Quarter for dining and nightlife.
• The Ocean Beach Pier for ocean wildlife viewing.
• Pacific Beach for surfing and brunch.

There’s a reason why San Diego is so widely known. The scenery is gorgeous and the weather is topped by none. Surfers, nature lovers, artsy folks and city-people will all find plenty to do. It’s one of the best places for solo female travel in California.

• Where To Stay: Try Casa San Diego for a central location.
• Be Aware: Winter nights can get quite cold.

9. Los Angeles

The other best known big city in SoCal is worth a look, as well!

Though I don’t love some aspects of LA – such as the unreasonable traffic and the high prices, ther eis a lot to love here.

If you are in the mood for arts, you have a nearly endless supply of museums and galleries within the city limits. Check out LACMA or The Broad for awe-inspiring exhibitions, or the Getty to learn a bit about history. Or, try The Broad Stage for incredible performances.

Walk around the Santa Monica Promenade for good eats and interesting shops. Check out Venice Beach for lively hangout spots. Or, head to the Fashion District for cheap and one of a kind clothing items.

No matter what you are looking for, it is bound to be tucked into a corner of Los Angeles.

• Where To Stay: Check out Hotel Angeleno for easy access to the Getty and the Westwood neighborhood.
• Be Aware: Traffic is intense here. Avoid driving the 405 from 8am-10am and 3pm to 6pm if possible.

Solo Female Travel in Central California

1. Death Valley National Park

As the largest National Park in the contiguous United States, Death Valley is a must see. Picture landscapes covered with insane geology, panoramic salt flats, and rolling sand dunes. Can it get any better than that?

I would say everyone should see Death valley in their lives, but it is especially peaceful as a solo female. I love to road trip solo through the park, stopping where I please, and taking my time at any exhibit I please.

• When To Go: Those summer months can reach around 120 degrees. Take caution!
• Where To Stay: The Ranch at Death Valley is a true oasis in the desert.
• Be Aware: Gasoline is few and far between inside the park. Fuel up before entering.

2. Sequoia National Park

I just re-visited this underrated park and boy am I glad I did! I’ve been here both solo and with a friend and you really can’t go wrong.

There are loads of scenic hikes in Sequoia, taking you across large groves of these big trees and to pristine lakes surrounded by pine trees. Sequoia is nature at its best, and there are so many great things to do here !

Don’t forget to visit General Sherman, the most famous tree in the park!

• When To Go: You can visit year-round, but winter months can be dicey. See more below.
• Where To Stay: I recommend the Comfort Inn , which is close tot he park entrance.
• Be Aware: Roads are frequently closed for weather-related reasons. Always check ahead!

3. Alabama Hills

Alabama Hills is home to one of my top sunrise spots no the planet. Seriously!

Check out Movie Road for a view you will never forget. The large mountainous backdrop and the strange piles of boulders are such an off and alien-like sight. This spot has been featured in many many Hollywood movies!

One of the huge bonuses of this area is that it is BLM Land. It has always been free to camp, car-camp, or van-camp. I’m glad to say I got to do this. Unfortunately for us, I heard some rumors that this is changing. Be sure to check before you camp.

• When To Go: Winter would be very cold to camp but you can go year-round!
• Where To Stay: Camp on the BLM land. You won’t regret it.
• Be Aware: If you want to get the sunrise view, climb the hill early. You may be fighting photographers for a spot.

4. San Luis Obispo

Located roughly halfway between the Bay Area and Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo is an up and coming town on the Central Coast. Us Californians call it “SLO” by the way.

SLO has a perfect Mediterranean climate year-round. The quaint downtown is a walkable area full of unique shops and restaurants.

The city hosts a farmers’ market every Thursday night from 6–9 p.m. on Higuera Street, and it’s a great place to stock up on fresh produce and tasty goods. Visual and music artists perform for the outdoor crowds.

• When To Go: Winter can dip below freezing, and summer can be a little gray in the mornings, but it is pleasant year round.
• Where To Stay: The Vagabond Inn is well-reviewed and reasonably priced.
• Be Aware: There is a large college population here. Depending on your point of view, that can be a positive or a negative.

5. Yosemite National Park

It’s quite incredible, how close Yosemite, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Death Valley are in proximity. yet they are all so very different from one another!

Millions of people visit Yosemite each year. Its 1,200 square miles of tall granite cliffs, rushing waterfalls, and expansive wilderness are unparalleled. It is one of America’s most popular National Parks (and frankly, it’s easy to see why!)

The park is home to loads of waterfalls, too. Yosemite Falls, Ribbon Falls, Sentinel Falls, and Horsetail Falls are just the beginning. Yosemite is a must see – it is one of the best parks in the southwest !

• When To Go: The park is open year round. But, in winter some roads will close. Always check ahead.
• Where To Stay: The Holiday Inn Express is one of the more reasonably priced hotels near Yosemite.
• Be Aware: The falls can dry up by August. Go during wetter months or after winter raina to get the full effect.

It just doesn’t get any better than Big Sur.

The steep seaside cliffs and the iconic white Bixby Creek Bridge are practically legendary stops on any California Highway 1 itinerary . Ruggedly beautiful, the hiking options are endless.

The picturesque area is also full of small inns and restaurants, difficult to access beaches, and more wild and untamed beauty than you’re ready for. I promise.

• Where To Stay: Try the Contenta hotel for free WiFi, a hot tub and a heated outdoor pool (!!).
• Be Aware: Be careful accessing some of the more secluded beaches. Trails are slippery or nonexistent.

Solo Female in Northern California

1. Redwood National and State Parks

I was surprised when I learned that Redwood National Park together with three State parks worked cooperatively to protect these tall trees. These four parks protect 45 percent of all remaining old-growth redwoods – and that is wild!

Beyond that, the four parks also protect stunning woodlands, rivers, and prairies within the park boundaries. The coastal areas are home to wild sea lions, gray whales, pelicans and much more.

I’ve been lucky enough to hike among the redwoods a few times now, and it is beyond peaceful.

You May Also Like: The Best Hiking Gear for Women

• When To Go: For the warmest weather, visit between June and September.
• Where To Stay: Elk Meadow has lots of cozy options.
• Be Aware: Many of the trees are over 300 feet tall and 2,000 years old. Wow!

2. San Francisco

What’s a trip to northern California without a stop at the Golden Gate Bridge?! Solo female travelers should definitely add San Francisco to their California trip.

Beyond the famous bridge, there is a lot to see here.

Take a trip to Alcatraz and tour the famous prison. I found it fascinating! Head to the Ghirardelli chocolate factory for some tasty treats. Have a picnic in Golden Gate Park. Or, ride one of the famous red trollies around town.

San Fran is full of streets to explore and hills to climb!

• When To Go: For warm and sunny weather, visit between June and September. Winter is picturesque.
• Be Aware: Avoid the Bay Bridge at all costs around rush hour.

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3. Mendocino National Forest

Three hours north of San Francisco, these 913,306 acres offer a lot more green than I typically see in Southern California! The Mendocino national Forest is great for any solo female who wants solitude, quiet, and nature.

Pretty hikes offer views of Mount Lassen and Mount Shasta, among others. A incredibly dense pine and fit forest makes you feel like you’re anywhere but California. It’s a fabulous (and lesser visited) place to escape.

• When To Go: Winter is picturesque, but oh so cold.
• Where To Stay: The Inn at Schoolhouse Creek can’t be beat.
• Be Aware: Though cold, winter is also whale watching season in Mendocino.

4. Point Lobos State Reserve

North of Big Sur, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a haven for artists and adventurers. Photographers, hikers, and scuba divers frequent this land for good reason.

The park is home to rare plants, odd and amazing geological formations, and expansive meadows.

No dogs, no bikes, no drones, and no camping. There are a lot of strict rules to be aware of before you go!

• When To Go: Year round!.
• Where To Stay: Things can get pricey here, but the Carmel River Inn is a good choice.
• Be Aware: There is a $10 entrance fee.

These are so me of my top suggestions on where to go alone in California. You’ll get everything from secluded forests to picturesque beaches to busy cities and towns. There is something for everyone!

Which of these destinations will you hit first on your solo female trip to California? Let me know below!

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About Monica

Monica has been a solo female world traveler for over 15 years. She is an expert on outdoor adventures, solo female travel, and off the beaten path destinations. She is the founder of This Rare Earth and is a firm believer that the world is not as scary as the media might have you think! Learn more about her here . Connect with her on Instagram .

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10 Overnight Backpack Trips in Southern California

• April 13, 2016
• Jeff Hester

The word is out. Southern California has a veritable plethora of hiking trails . And a plethora and a half of hikers exploring them. 99.9% of hikers are firmly in the day-hike only camp, and usually it’s just a matter of not knowing how to start and where to go to gain some backpacking experience.

With this in mind, I’ve come up with a list of ten great overnight backpacking trips . Most of these trips can be modified to make them easier or more challenging, depending on what you’re after. But they all provide a taste of outdoor adventure that can be enjoyed by anyone with a free night.

1. Crystal Cove State Park

Most people don’t realize this, but Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County has several backcountry camps that you can use — and they have sweeping ocean views! The trails are busy during the day, but you can hike up and setup your camp after work and still have time to cook dinner and watch the sunset. And as the sun goes down, the day-hiker (and mountain biker) crowds go with it, leaving you with a pretty sweet view.

Why this trip rocks?  My friend Tracy uses this park for what she calls a “gear shakedown” before any bigger trips, testing new gear in a relatively low-risk situation. It’s a great way to dip your toes into backpacking without traveling far.

2. Santa Cruz Trail

This is a longer, more strenuous out-and-back trip in the Santa Barbara backcountry that’s best done in the spring (it gets a bit too hot in the summer). Hike 10 miles in with 2,500′ vertical gain, setup camp by a stream under the shade of 100-year old oaks, and hike back the next day.

Why backpack this?  The distance and elevation gain are an almost perfect match for a typical day on the John Muir Trail (although at a much lower altitude). It’s a good way to see how your body responds to the climb and the distance. Time it right, and you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular wildflower show.

3. Barker Valley in the Palomar Mountains

Fellow hiking blogger Scott Turner has a super  guide to this great little overnight trip to Barker Valley in the Palomar Mountains in northeast San Diego County. It’s what I call an “upside-down” hike, meaning you go down 1000′ feet to the river, camp overnight, then hike up  1000′ to get back to the trailhead. But at 6.5 miles round trip, it makes a gentler introduction to backpacking.

Backpack this for… meadows, a river and a waterfall. And it’s dog-friendly. Woof!

4. Santa Anita Canyon

You can stay at Hogee’s on Winter Creek, or Spruce Grove on the Gabrieleño Trail. And if you’re feeling ambition in the morning, you can bag Mt Wilson — one of the Six-Pack of Peaks. Here’s a guide to a grand loop up Gabrieleño to the summit and down via Winter Creek . You can hike it either direction, or modify it to suit you time and energy.

I love this overnighter for… a healthy dose of LA’s hiking history. Hoagie’s and Spruce Grove campgrounds date back a hundred years. And these lush canyons feel like a world away from the freeways and traffic jams.

5. Cucamonga Peak

Joan and I backpacked to Cucamonga Peak and spent the night for our Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge (that’s her silhouetted in the setting sun en route to the summit. Pack in all your water (I took six liters).

Hike this for… the sunset. And the sunrise. And the stars and city lights in-between. We even saw the Disneyland fireworks from the summit! Did I mention this hike is also dog friendly? Woof!

6. Mt Baldy

Camping on the top of Mt Baldy is an experience. You have to pack in all your water. It’s cold, windy and exposed. But oh those sunrise and sunsets! And it’s dog friendly.

7. San Bernardino Peak

The San Bernardino Trail goes all the way up to San Bernardino Peak (and beyond). But you can stop at Limber Pine Flat and camp overnight.

Why on earth? For views like the one shown above. Says it all.

8. Catalina Island

You don’t have to hike the entire Trans-Catalina Trail to enjoy overnight backpacking on Catalina. Take the ferry from San Pedro into Two Harbors, and you can day hike to either Little Harbor or Two Harbors to Parsons Landing. Each is on a different side of the island, and each has it’s own distinct vibe.

Why backpack here? Are you serious? If you live in SoCal, you  must  do this at least once!

9. San Gorgonio

Most people hike up San Gorgonio — the highest peak in Southern California — in a single day hike. But they would be missing out on views like this one, from my High Creek campsite in 2013. Another great option is Halfway Camp (supposedly halfway to the summit from the trailhead). And once you’ve spent the night, you don’t have  to continue to San Gorgonio. But you probably will.

Why backpack San Gorgonio? Because it’s the tallest damn mountain in SoCal, and you should make the journey last as long as you can.

10. San Jacinto

San Jacinto is my personal favorite!  I’ve been backpacking on this mountain since I was a teenager, and I’ll never tire of it. You can hike in from Idyllwild or take the tram up. I took my daughter up there on an overnight backpack trip before she even was walking!

Why is San Jacinto my favorite? Options to bag San Jacinto, or just go check out Wellman’s Divide. Beautiful alpine meadows, and peaks that remind me of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Here’s a peek at our overnight trip from the Tram to the summit of San Jacinto .

Wrapping Up

All of these overnight these overnight trips include some bureaucracy, usually in the form of a wilderness permit obtainable from the local ranger station.

Those are some of my top picks for short overnight backpack trips all over Southern California. Leave a comment to share your favorites. 

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How to Take a Solo Trip to California for 10+ Days

So you have time off and want to go to California – and no one wants to tag along with you? That’s what happened to me. California had been on the top of my travel list for awhile. I had never been to the West Coast and the furthest west I had been was New Orleans. I knew it was time for me to get a taste of the west coast life — a California solo trip.

I would be traveling alone for the first time. (I did travel alone to Spain for my study abroad trip, but considering I was a part of a program there for school, I don’t really count that.) While this made me nervous, I was also very excited about the flexibility I would have. Here’s another post about my thoughts on solo travel.

Because I had a flexible work schedule, I was able to cater my plans to suit my budget, schedule and bucket list. I chose days with cheaper flights. I worked around my friends’ schedules that I would be visiting. (While I was mostly on my own for 12 days (13 including travel), I did end up staying with two friends.) So, definitely, if you are able to plan any trip with flexibility on dates, do so and work around cheaper flights!

My 12-Day California Solo Trip: San Diego, Los Angeles & San Francisco [Itinerary]

San diego: days 1-6.

First stop: San Diego, America’s Finest City!

San Diego was top of my list, and I did a lot of research about it. Because of that, I chose to spend the most time here. I didn’t know anyone who lived in the city, but that wasn’t a problem at all. I was able to wake up, and do whatever I wanted to that day. I stayed in an Airbnb in the Hillcrest neighborhood and took Uber’s/Lyft’s to the beaches and downtown. My Airbnb experience was wonderful – I really enjoyed the family and the location was great for me, since there were a lot of restaurants in walking distance (and a Whole Foods!).

There is a LOT to see in San Diego and my friend was right, you could easily spend more than two weeks exploring the city. I wanted to spend time at the beaches, see some of the nature spots and eat the best vegan food. Here are the destinations I crossed off:

• Balboa Park – I went to Balboa Park twice! It was one of my favorite parts of the city. It is a huge park with about 15 museums and lots of gardens. The gardens were my favorite part. I also spent an afternoon just laying on a towel in the sun in the park—so relaxing.
• Old Town Trolley Tour – I took the touristy trolley tour , yes I did. I actually loved it! The trolley driver was entertaining, even though I may have been the only one amused by his jokes. Also, it was easy to hit a lot of the places in the city without taking Uber’s everywhere. Definitely cheaper to pay the $35 trolley fee than to grab a ride to all the places the trolley takes you to.
• Little Italy – I loved this cute part of downtown! I ate at Cafe Gratitude for lunch and hopped back on the trolley.
• Coronado Beach – I saw Hotel Del Coronado, one of the first places to get electricity on the West Coast, fun fact. And I took some time to relax on the beach here.
• La Jolla – I spent an entire day in La Jolla, seeing the tide pools, sea lions and sea caves. I ate lunch at a nice rooftop vegan cafe, Trilogy Sanctuary . I also did a coastal walk and went into a few shops in the small town. I came back to La Jolla the next day and got takeout to watch the sunset.
• Scripps Beach – There is a really nice pier at Scripps Beach and it’s a less crowded beach I found if you’d like to avoid crowds. There is also an interesting structure if you walk and hike the rocks a bit up the beach. It’s called the Mushroom House, which is a tad random, but cool to see.
• Sunset Cliffs National Park – This is a beautiful coastline. I hiked down to a beach there for a sunset yoga workshop, and it was an amazing place to watch the California sunset.

I also took a day trip from San Diego to Carlsbad, CA , where I met a friend to go to The Flower Fields . We also spent time in the Village of Carlsbad , eating lunch and dinner and sitting on the beach! It was good to get out of the city for a little bit and see another part of Southern California. Plus, flowers! I’ve been known to take pictures of flowers *sometimes* (all the time).

Los Angeles: Days 7-8

I took Amtrak from Old Town, San Diego to LA’s Union Station in the morning on Day 7. I decided to only spend an a day and a half in LA, as a stop between San Diego and San Francisco. I arrived in LA about 12:30 and made it to my Airbnb in Venice Beach around 2:00pm. I honestly wasn’t having the greatest vibes from LA. When I got to my Airbnb, I wasn’t impressed at all. I don’t think I made a good decision about it, and it wasn’t what I was expecting. Not to go into details, but I ended up asking a friend to stay with her. Thankfully, she let me sleep on her couch, and it was super comfy!

But I did get to see some things in LA in a day and a half:

• Venice Beach & Venice canals
• Marina del Rey
• Abbot Kinney Blvd and its shops and restaurants
• Santa Monica Pier
• 3rd Street Promenade
• Beverley Hills
• Griffith Observatory – at night!

In my opinion, it would be hard to visit LA for the first time on your own. I’m thankful I had a friend and also a family member I met (for the first time) show me around. I’m glad I got to see some of the city while I was over there, of course!

San Francisco: Days 9-13

I loved my time in San Francisco. I took an early flight from LA and arrived to my friend’s house around noon. I stayed with a college roommate who was able to show me around the city. By that point, I had been exhausted from my trip, and it was really nice to have a local friend to explore with me. I also had the chance to meet some other family members who I had never met before (that was a theme of the trip). We went to dinner on the marina with a sunset view of the Golden Gate Bridge! It was one of the highlights of my trip. The restaurant was Greens Restaurant , a vegetarian/vegan restaurant in Fort Mason. It was amazing and such a relaxing dinner.

San Francisco was a mix of exploring the city and resting, catching up with my friend. I didn’t try to cram everything into the few days I was there. But we saw a lot!

• Hike from Ocean Beach to Golden Gate Bridge – a long (and hilly!) hike, that made me exhausted but SO worth it and SO beautiful! (We walked 12 miles that day.)
• Berner’s Hill – a small hike to get a great view of the city!
• Mission District – a more hipster area of the city where we saw a lot of murals, ate gelato and got amazing Mexican food.
• The Painted Ladies
• Hayes Valley – a great spot where we had lunch in Patricia’s Green and people watched.
• Union Square
• De Young Museum
• Golden Gate Park
• The farmer’s market, shops and cafes in her neighborhood of Inner Richmond.

We were lucky and had beautiful weather in the city the first three days there. Then, it got a little chilly and windy, and we just relaxed the rest of the time and I got ready to head back to D.C. I didn’t want to leave! I got used to sleeping in Airbnbs and on couches, and for some reason, my bed at home didn’t feel homey anymore. I loved the feeling of knowing that traveling became the norm and I had to rely on my faith that everything in my trip will work out – since I was waking up to the unknown everyday.

A Solo Trip in California – Key Takeaways:

• In Southern California, it’s necessary to have a car to get around , so be sure to save money for Uber’s or renting a car. San Francisco has better transportation–we used the buses, metro and Uber’s.
• If you want to see the beaches , go to San Diego and the surrounding area.
• LA is hard to do in a couple of days, and I would recommend staying with someone in LA if you are going alone for the first time.
• Book your Airbnb’s carefully! While it may hard to know *for sure* whether they are sketchy or not, go with your gut feeling and act fast if you want to change your surroundings.
• Plan time for rest during your trip . It’s okay if you wake up at 11 a.m. and get out of the house at 1 p.m.
• If you are going to Southern & Northern California, you’ll need to pack for both temperatures. But you can still do it in a carry on! Make sure to find places with laundry. I did two and a half loads during my traveling.
• Personally, I think San Diego was the easiest place to go as a solo traveler. It didn’t have a really “big city” feel, but you get both city and nature, and things in between!
• Prioritize the top places you want to see , and if you like a place a lot, go back! Don’t worry about crossing everything off your list, because more often than not, you get to see all the places you’d like.
• Don’t be afraid to take a long trip by yourself. If you only go for a weekend, you would want more time! Plus, it’s easier to adjust when you have more time in a city.
• Don’t overthink your solo trip – I actually had the best time in San Diego and that’s where I was completely by myself!

Related Post: Why I Like Traveling on my Own

In the end, I’m very proud of myself for stepping outside my comfort zone and doing something I really wanted to do. That’s what it’s all about – making your dreams come true. I would definitely go back to California, and I would definitely do a solo trip again. I hope you all consider doing the same!

25 Best Hidden Gems In Southern California For Fun Offbeat Getaways

Despite its popularity, there are many beautiful hidden gems in Southern California if you want to go off the beaten path. Some of them may soon be off the list of the secret places to visit in Southern California, so make sure you visit these hidden California gems as soon as possible.

While destinations like Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego may get millions of visitors, there are plenty of unique places to visit in Southern California, thanks to the year-round sunny climate.

Whether you are visiting Southern California for a relaxing weekend getaway or on a road trip, you have plenty of places to choose from, ranging from beaches and mountains to colourful cities and charming small towns, with something for everyone in the Golden State.

Check out this list for the best offbeat and hidden gems in the Bay Area and other parts of Southern California.

TOP HIDDEN GEMS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Solvang   is one of the best hidden gems in southern California if you are looking for a small town. It is located in the Santa Ynez Valley and is a part of Santa Barbara County.

Solvang is known for its splendid Danish architecture, thatched roofs, old-world craftsmanship, and windmills, thanks to a group of Danish Americans that built the town in 1911.

It is within a 3-hour drive from Los Angeles and 4.5 hours from San Diego.

PLACES TO VISIT AND THINGS TO DO

Visit downtown Solvang, filled with Danish architecture, chic boutiques, bakeries and windmills. You can also experience a ride in horse-driven carriages.

As you travel downtown, you’ll notice Solvang’s four distinctive windmills, pure Danish culture.

Check out the central cathedral, Mission Santa Ines. Established in 1804, it is one of the 21 historic cathedrals in California, home to a museum with ancient scripts and artefacts.

Visit the Bethania Lutheran Church, with a Danish architectural style established in the early 20th century by the Danish-American community with wooden interiors.

Include Hans Christian Andersen Park and Sunny Fields Park on your itinerary for a picnic with family to do rock climbing, biking and skating.

If you are a history buff, you will be rewarded with several museums in this one of the best beautiful beach towns in California.

Visit the Elverhoj Museum, established in a marvellous 18th-century Danish-style farmhouse the museum houses various exhibits depicting Danish history.

Check out the Solvang Amber Museum if you are interested in rare jewellery and antiques.

Discover Danish and American culture at Elverhoj Museum of History and Art and Wildling Museum of Art & Nature, or take a guided horseback ride to explore Santa Ynez Valley for one-of-a-kind quaint vibes.

To mark your Solvang trip as a complete one, enjoy tasting the finest local wines from over 120 vineyards and enjoy a play under the starry sky at Solvang Festival Theater.

WHERE TO STAY?

Solvang is home to two fantastic cottages. These Danish-themed Inns are perfect for a cosy holiday home.

Mirabelle Inn & Restaurant  in downtown Solvang offers Spa, pool, and other comfortable amenities apart from spacious rooms and its fantastic location. Perfect for couples and families to spend a weekend. 

Solvang Inn & Cottages  is another Danish farm-style inn featuring a heated outdoor pool and a hot tub. You can enjoy a daily continental breakfast as well. Downtown is an 8-minute walk from the property.

You will love  Wine Valley Inn , a stunning Danish-style hotel located close to the centre of downtown Solvang.

King Frederik Inn , located in downtown Solvang is a beautiful hotel and one of the top accommodation spots among tourists. This gorgeous Danish-style building is known for its spacious rooms, fantastic amenities, and heritage value.

Ballard Inn & The Gathering Table   is one of the famous B&B in Santa Barbara Wine Country, perfect for making a base if you plan on exploring the nearby vineyards, along with places to visit in Solvang.

For Friends Inn Wine Country Bed and Breakfast   is located in downtown Santa Ynez. This cosy place is a popular spot for families with kids and couples, thanks to the lovely garden suites and rooftop. 

LAGUNA BEACH

With abundant verdant woodlands to the east, an ocean playground to the west, and eight miles of coastline, Laguna Beach in Orange County is one of the most popular beaches in southern California due to its close location to Los Angeles and Disney, both less than an hour away.

But despite its popularity, it is still one of the best hidden gems in southern California, as you can have your space and idle away along the shores.

With stunning ocean-view hilltops, turquoise oceans, and white-sand beaches that have inspired artists from all over the globe for over 200 years, it is one of the best beach towns in California.

It’s no surprise that many of Hollywood’s top stars have made their homes up here.

If you want to stay adjacent to the neighbourhoods of superstars, you can look out for places like Portafina, Arch Beach Heights and Laguna Canyon.

Laguna Beach brags over 30 beaches with white sand and well-kept facilities, allowing visitors to make the most of the Southern California coastline.

Head to the Main Beach, featuring tide pools and a boardwalk. You can relax on the beach or walk down the alley to Heisler Park, which has hiking and bike trails.

Check out Crescent Bay Beach to explore the mysterious enclave. There are other beaches nearby where you may have to go a few hundred steps down to reach the lovely beach.

Visit Crystal Cove State Park, which has a designated underwater park. You can also go on whale-watching tours.

Aliso Beach Park is the place for Surfers to catch some waves.

Don’t miss the 22,000- acre natural stretch of Laguna Canyon Wilderness Park, Southern California’s last remaining undamaged coastal canyons, which has been fiercely fended against since the 1980s by the locals against development.

Hikers and bikers may put their skills and stamina to the test on the park’s 100 miles of trails.

The Laguna Art Museum, one of California’s oldest, is a must-see for art aficionados, with vibrant murals painted.

The Laguna Beach Trolley offers free transportation along the South Coast Highway.

If you’re planning a trip to this vibrant coastal town, keep an eye out for yearly festivals like the Sawdust Art Festival, featuring live music, food booths, artist exhibitions and the Festival of Whales.

MAMMOTH LAKES

One of the best destinations for snow in California, Mammoth Lakes is the perfect winter spot to admire the fantastic powdery slopes dotting mountain valleys or to indulge in winter sports. 

But the best part is despite its popularity, the Mammoth Lakes area, known for its spectacular mountain landscapes dominated by the dramatic High Sierra Nevada, is one of the beautiful hidden gems in southern California visited by fewer crowds.

Although skiing season is between November to June, Mammoth lakes can be visited during any time of the year as there are loads of  awesome things to do in Mammoth Lakes , with something for everyone – from skiing to snowboarding to hot springs and hiking.

December is the peak ski season at Mammoth Mountain, as you get access to over 3,500 areas of mountain slopes carpeted with snow.

It is home to some of the best ski resorts in California, attracting many families and adventure seekers to the California Eastern Sierras.

You have over 150 gorgeous trails for alpine downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, and snowboarding.

You can take the fantastic Gondola ride to the peak, enjoying the splendid views of the mountainous landscapes on your ride.

If you are here in summer, take the cable car from the village to enjoy the magnificent panoramic views of the famous landmark, the 65 feet vertical rock face, The Devil’s Postpile and the surrounding mountains.

There are also plenty of   beautiful natural hot springs in Mammoth Lakes ,  including or near camping sites. After outdoor adventures, there is nothing more relaxing than soaking in these mineral-rich hot springs and enjoying the beautiful views.

You can enjoy fishing, boat trips, hiking, or picnic lunches in any of the stunning  glacial lakes around Mammoth Lakes ,  surrounded by dramatic mountains offering beautiful sunrise and sunset views.

I recommend  Innsbruck Lodge ,  located near the Village Gondola, for its secluded and stunning location. This lovely lodge offers apartments with kitchens to simple rooms, and they have an on-site hot tub and spa. 

The Westin Monache Resort   is next to the Village Lodge and beside Mountain Center in the Village comes with condos comprising spacious rooms and balconies offering beautiful views.   Book a stay here .

If the popular ones do not appeal to you, check out  Sierra Lodge , which is centrally located and offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes.

ALABAMA HILLS

Some places that can only be enjoyed in winter in the United States, and Alabama Hills is one of them.

Located at the foothills of the dramatic Sierra Nevada Mountain range, Alabama Hills is one of the best southern California hidden gems, perfect for winter and a spring holiday destination. 

You will be treated to splendid views of the snow-capped mountain vistas everywhere, and it’s a jackpot for adventure seekers and outdoor lovers.

You can hike or mountain bike on the many trails leading to beautiful views, ideal for all experience levels. 

Alabama Hills is one of the most photographed destinations thanks to its distinct landscapes. If you want to capture some gorgeous shots, you will love visiting the Alabama hills in California in December.

Camping in the Alabama Hills  is very popular, especially during winter. Star gazing, watching epic sunrise and sunsets, and driving around to see iconic landmarks are some other activities you can enjoy apart from hiking.

One must-stop is the famous Alabama Hills Movie Road, famous for Instagram-worthy photography.

Check out the famous tourist attractions in Alabama Hills, including the easily accessible geological wonders like Mobius Arch, Lone Ranger Canyon, Nightmare Rock and Boot Arch.

Bring many layers, especially jackets, warm sleeping bags, and many blankets, if you plan to go to Alabama Hills camping.

Instead of camping, if you would rather stay in a hotel or Airbnb or you feel the need for comfort,  Lone Pine  is the nearest town with many vacation rentals, cabins, and cottages available. 

Here are the best picks of Cottages, Cabins, and hotels in Lone Pine, CA – Quality Inn Lone Pine near Mount Whitney ;  Cozy Muir Cottage ;  Mt Williamson Motel and Basecamp

The luxurious beachfront town of La Jolla, translating to the jewel in Spanish, is located near San Diego and is considered one of California’s best beach towns. It is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in southern California if you want an indulging seaside getaway.

This lovely beach town is endowed with dramatic craggy cliffs along the shoreline and charming bays with sandy beaches.

The opulent seaside hamlet of La Jolla offers a plethora of outdoor recreation.

You can swim in La Jolla Cove, a lovely stretch of beach popular with swimmers. You may even spot some sea lions and seals basking in the sun.

If you wish to sunbathe and relax on the seaside, look for long sandy beaches around Black Beach.

Head to the Shell Beach tidal pools to ride the tide and see crabs and sea anemones.

Visit Torrey Pines State Beach to witness the 300-foot escarpments and the rare iconic Torrey pines, which are only a few on the strip of coastal California.

This beach town is also a hot spot for diving. Check out La Jolla Dive for diving lessons, tours, and rental gear. If you’re not sure about deep-sea diving, you may try snorkelling.

La Jolla Cove has access to coastal coves and is an excellent place to do sea kayaking.

Head to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, known for its hiking trails, blessed with pine trees and sandstone canyons all along the path.

Want to play golf along with breathtaking sea views? Check out Torrey Pines Golf Course, which has two golf courses.

You can also visit the San Diego zoo and the Safari Park when you are here in one of the best beach towns in California.

The Museum of Contemporary Art, which displays American and European art, sculptures, photography, paintings, and more, is a must-see for art connoisseurs.

Grab a cup of coffee from one of downtown La Jolla’s historical coffee shops on Girard Avenue and Prospect Street, or shop at high-end designer stores in this California’s best beach town.

On Prospect Street, you’ll also find the Grande Colonial palatial hotel, which has existed since 1913.

WHERE TO STAY

One of the most beautiful hidden gems in Southern California is Temecula, which should be added to your itinerary, especially if you love all things wine. 

Unlike the other popular wine destinations like Napa or Sonoma wine county, Temecula is surprisingly off the beaten path and is a perfect pick if you want to enjoy a weekend getaway in one of the secret getaways in California.

Home to over 50 wineries, Temecula Valley Wine Country is a charming city exuding the charm of a small town, packed with stunning rolling hills dotting vineyards, boutique wineries and restaurants, all accessible by a few minutes’ drive out of downtown . 

Surrounded by arid landscapes, the sunny wine county of Temecula may appear far from being a wine destination. Still, for many decades now, Temecula has been home to many award-winning wineries, with the first historic vineyard opened in 1974. 

Thanks to the ideal wind conditions keeping the region cooler, Temecula offers the perfect conditions for growing different varieties of wine. 

If you are short on time, the best way to make the most of your time and money is to join one of the guided wine-tasting tours that take you through the highlights of the many best wineries in Temecula and often includes lunch or dinner amidst gorgeous patios and gardens overlooking beautiful views.

Lumiere is one of the oldest vineyards in Temecula, offering many tasty wine varieties. They also pair wine-tasting sessions with cheese and bread.

There are many incredible things to do in Temecula apart from hopping wineries. The city offers a taste of old-world southern California charm. Many hiking and biking trails to explore the outdoors nearby during spring.

Check out unique shops, cute cafes and restaurants in the Old Town. Go hot-air ballooning over the vineyards to enjoy fantastic bird views of the valley.

If you are into Bohemian vibes and art, one of the best hidden places in southern California you should visit is Ojai.

Located northwest of Los Angeles in Ventura County in a valley in the Topatopa Mountains, Ojai, however, also has many things to offer for families and nature lovers that blend well with the beaches that are a few minutes’ drive away.

If you love art, you will enjoy visiting Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts or Dan Schultz Fine Art Gallery and Studio.

For outdoor lovers, there are hiking, biking, and birdwatching trails that you can explore in Los Padres National Forest, Ojai Meadows Preserve, and Ventura River Preserve.

Lake Casitas is another popular recreation area that gets crowded during the summer for picnics and boat trips.

Spring and fall are the best times to visit these parks to watch wildlife, birds, and beautiful wildflowers that carpet the landscapes. 

There are many chic shops for gifts and collecting art in Ojai that you should check out, including Cercana and Poppies Arts & Gift.

If you love exploring ghost towns, you will love Calico, one of the historical landmarks and best hidden gems in Southern California located 15 miles northeast of Barstow in the San Bernardino County regional park.

The historic ghost town of Calico is one of the only intact original silver rush towns of the old west that still remains.

This small town was home to thousands of residents, mostly mining families, and was abandoned in the 1880s. You can still see the remains of dozens of saloons, bordellos, restaurants, and boarding houses.

Stroll the streets, home to many restaurants, cafes, and shops. Take a historic walking tour of the mines that transport you back in time. Visit the historical museum or take a ride on the heritage railroad. 

I recommend staying overnight in one of the cabins or camping sites nearby. There are also fun Halloween tours and festivals if you are here during the fall.

Julian, the small mountain town tucked away in the pretty Laguna Mountains in the San Diego Mountains northeast of Los Angeles, is a beautiful weekend getaway known for its juicy apples, ciders, and pies. There are plenty of amazing things to do in Julian, a historic gold-mining town

Whether you are looking to experience a small mountain town charm or country friendliness in Southern California, want to feel like you have traveled back in time to the 19th century, or you are looking for a holiday filled with lots of eating and drinking, it is possible to do all these in Julian.

Located 60 miles northeast of San Diego and about a 3-hour drive southeast of Los Angeles, Julian is one of the popular day trips from both cities.

There are many pretty farms where you can pick apples, strawberries, blackberries, peaches, or nectarines from the fields amidst cute farm animals. 

Check out the cider mill and wineries in the historic downtown area. There’s also an old gold mine you can check out if you’re interested in California’s Wild West past.

It is also one of the few places to see beautiful snow in California in San Diego County.

At over 4,000 feet, the small town of Julian is blanketed in snow during winter. For the best chances of experiencing snowfall, January and February are the best months to be in Julian to see snow in California in this region.

Although you can’t expect to do skiing, snowshoeing or ice skating at about 30 feet of snow that Julian receives, this town offers you the nor-rush, slowed-down vibes, allowing you to have a relaxing holiday surrounded by snow-blanketed panoramas.

If you are looking for more activities in Julian, check our  detailed guide to the best things to do in Julian.

BEST HOTELS IN JULIAN

Julian Gold Rush Hotel  –  This is a top place many tourists favour. This lavish hotel comes with a terrace and a beautiful garden.  Check prices to book here.

Wikiup Hummingbird Hotel  –  Wikiup Hummingbird Hotel   is an excellent pick if you are traveling with kids, as they have spacious suites and incredible views.  Check prices here.

APARTMENTS, RESORT AND SPA

Oakzanita Springs Camping Resort Cottage 4  – If you are looking for a rustic stay with your family, I recommend  Oakzanita Springs Camping Resort Cottage ,  located in Descanso in the California region, known for its well-made suites and located in an excellent place.   Check details and availability here.

Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat & Spa  –  This 4-star hotel has luxurious amenities, including a pool and playrooms. All lavishly decorated suites come with a patio.  Check details and availability here.

Riviera Oaks Resort By Diamond Resorts  –  Nestled in the San Vicente Valley, Riviera has beautiful one to two-bedroom villas.  Check more here.

San Vicente Golf Resort  –  If you want to indulge in Golf during your trip, San Vicente Golf Resort is a fantastic place, especially with your family.  Check further details here.

Kokopelli’s Hideaway –   If you plan to stay close to Anza Borrego Desert State Park. This is an excellent place, but note that it is further away from Julian.  Check prices here.

LAKE ARROWHEAD

Located amidst the San Bernardino Mountains in the San Bernardino National Forest, one of the fascinating destinations for enjoying a winter getaway in California is Lake Arrowhead , only about 2 hours away from Los Angeles.

It is one of the best southern California hidden gems known for its towering pines and rocky cliffs. It is located in the stunning San Bernardino National Forest, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

It is one of the popular destinations among families visiting the lake throughout the year.

There are many beautiful hiking and biking trails in the area, with the most popular trail being the Arrowhead Pinnacles Trail, a pretty trail that takes you through pines and meadows and windflowers in spring, offering splendid views of the lake.

Recommended – 27 Awesome Things To Do In Lake Arrowhead, California

It is an excellent lake to enjoy a relaxing swim in the summer. You can enjoy fishing, kayaking and boating on the lake.

If you love exploring California in winter, December until February is the best time to hit the slopes at Lake Arrowhead and enjoy fun outdoor activities, including snowshoeing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, or ice fishing on your trip. 

Make sure to visit California’s oldest and biggest snow tubing park, Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park, where sledging is a popular snow activity.

One of the top attractions in Lake Arrowhead loved by the kids, and the adults are the pretty SkyPark at Santa’s Village, a charming Christmas-themed outdoor activity park at Sky forest, where your kids can meet Santa Claus.

Skypark is also home to mountain bike and hiking trails. You can also enjoy archery, ice skating, ziplines and rock climbing. 

If you want to try cross-country skiing, the Rim Nordic Ski area is nearby.

BIG BEAR LAKE

Big Bear Lake, about 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles, is one of the offbeat places to visit in southern California in the San Bernardino Mountains, featuring hundreds of miles of trails, 22 miles of lakeshore, and over 1,000 acres of skiable terrain in the winter. 

Thanks to many activities throughout the year, Big Bear Lake is one of the all-year-round destinations in California. In spring and summer, you can enjoy hiking on beautiful trails and mountain biking amidst splendid panoramas. 

Rent a kayak or canoe, go on fishing trips, swim, take a paddleboard lesson or wakeboard training. Enjoy a relaxing picnic in the many shaded areas. You can even rent a jet ski for adventure on the lake or try zip lining or rock climbing.

Big Bear Lake is a wonderland, attracting thousands of visitors every winter, especially families that come for an adventurous getaway.

There are plenty of awesome things to do in the winter, whether you want to be adventurous activities like skiing or tasting the delicious Christmas bake and hot chocolate cosying up to a fireplace.

Since Big Bear Lake freezes by the end of November, it becomes the hot spot for ice skating, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and sleigh ride around the lake.

You can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowboard at the two famous mountain slopes, Snow Summit and Big Bear Mountain Resort.

If you want to do something slower, enjoy horseback riding through the snowy trails or hike along the many trails that pass through beautiful landscapes and stunning views.

You can also enjoy snowshoeing, sledging and high-speed adrenaline-kicking tubing at Grizzly Ridge Tube Park.

You can also learn skiing at Snow Summit resort, although you’ll have to book your spot quite early during the peak days.

Plan a day trip to neighbouring Lake Arrowhead, a 45-minute drive away, which is also a fabulous destination for a weekend getaway.

In December, visit Santa’s Village on your way to Lake Arrowhead.

I recommend  Big Bear Retreat ,  the fantastic holiday home perfect for families enjoying a comfortable stay with views.  Find more here .

Another beautiful holiday home with excellent reviews and location is   Moosehead Lodge ,  known for its beautiful settings.  Book here.

This gorgeous chalet  Summit Happy Cabin   comes with a patio and a hot tub as well as good views, a romantic stay for couples.  Check out this here .

Dream Getaway with Secluded Spa   is a stunning holiday home featuring a balcony with mountain views, a garden and barbecue facilities, located close to Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain.  Find out more here.

Located in San Mateo County, Pescadero is a small community just south of Half Moon Bay. 

Surrounded by the Pescadero Marsh, a wildlife refuge, and Pescadero Creek, the town is a local tourist destination during the warm summer months. 

Campgrounds are nearby, such as Memorial Park, rural roads are perfect for biking, and trails are ideal for hiking through the Santa Cruz Mountains. 

Pescadero is one of the best hidden gems in southern California if you are looking for a small town near the coast.

There are many  awesome things to do in Pescadero .  Visit the 115-foot-tall Pigeon Point Lighthouse, one of California’s tallest lighthouses and a historical landmark of Pescadero.

It was built in 1872 and contains an oil lamp and a 2000-pound Fresnel lens. Ships sailing along San Mateo County’s rugged shoreline used the lighthouse as a guidepost.

Pescadero is also known for its fantastic beaches. Unwind on the Bean Hollow State beach, collect unique Pebbles on the Pebble beach or drop off your swimsuits on the Southern end of Bean Hollow State beach. 

Admire the honeycomb rocks and massive dunes on the Pescadero State Beach.

Birdwatching enthusiasts can visit the 500-acre Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve to enjoy the views of colourful migratory birds.

Visit  Butano State Park  if you are an avid hiker. The park is known for its 40 miles of fantastic hiking trails that run through the giant old-growth redwoods. 

Enjoy camping in the well-maintained campgrounds in the park.

Recommended –  19 Best Things To Do in Pescadero, California

One of the other top things to do in Pescadero is to visit the Harley Farms, a 102-year-old farm known for its alpine goats, cheese and other home-made products like Jams, Jellies and chocolates.

If you are interested in organic and sustainable farming, visit the Pie Ranch, shaped like a slice of pie, known for its fresh produce and seasonal pies.

Consider adding it to your list of the best hidden gems in Southern California, as it has so many amazing things and fun activities to offer apart from sailing, for which it is well-known.

Not many know that the beaches in Dana Point are excellent for watching migrating whales, which you can enjoy year-round, unlike in some places where it is a seasonal event.

If you are traveling with young kids, Baby Beach, as the name suggests, is the best place to enjoy a beach day with them where the waves are gentle, and the water is shallower.

Doheny State Beach is a fantastic beach for long walks, stunning sunsets, some surfing, parasailing, paddleboarding and swimming.

For the classic Dana Point experience, head to the pier to rent a boat for a day of sailing, which will take you past many gorgeous panoramas, and give you a chance to witness the sunset from the sea.

Check out the Dana Point Sea Caves, also known as Pirate’s Cove, a series of sea caves located along the coast in Dana Point, which are accessible by a short hike from the parking lot.

CATALINA ISLAND

Located southwest of Los Angeles, Catalina is a part of the group of 8 islands, the Channel Islands, off the California coast, which make up the  Channel Islands National Park .

Catalina Island, the most famous in this group, located 22 miles off the coast, is home to one of the best hidden gems in Southern California with turquoise blue waters.

Enjoy the 60-minute boat trip to the island, where you can easily spend a day hopping the best beaches in southern California, including the popular ones, Moonstone beach and Lover’s cove.

You can take this boat trip from  Long Beach , San Pedro, Newport Beach, or Dana Point from mainland California.

You can relax at the beaches or indulge in popular outdoor activities like kayaking, snorkelling, hiking, fishing, and scuba diving.

If you want to go hiking, the most popular and moderately challenging trail is the Trans-Catalina trail, a 38.5 miles trail that requires many days and permits for camping. 

You will reach the summit, the peak of  Mount Orizaba , the tallest point on the island at over 2000 feet.

Zipline 600 feet above the sea, or camp overnight in the boat for sea night adventure. 

Just one hour from San Diego and Palm Springs tucked away in the San Jacinto mountains, are Idyllwild, an idyllic mountain town known for its splendid hiking trails, and beautiful panoramas.

It is one of the best hidden gems in Southern California, thanks to its higher elevation of over 6000 feet and its laid-back vibes, it is also one of the best winter getaways in California for families, where you can enjoy staying in rustic cabins surrounded by gorgeous views of the white wonderland.

A winter hike is a great way to explore the region, and there are many trailheads close by that can allow you to explore this mountain getaway. Bring some snow boots!

Although you cannot indulge in snow sports like skiing or snowshoeing, Idyllwild is a perfect choice if you only want to be surrounded by magical-looking white landscapes.

The best way to enjoy the snow in Idyllwild is by going on hikes into the forested mountains around the town. You can try rock climbing and mountain biking as well.

One of the top spots is the Idyllwild Nature Center to discover more about the local wildlife. 

SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park in the southern Sierra Nevada mountain ranges are known for being home to some of the largest living things on earth.

The two parks, located adjacent to each other, can be explored together.

In winter, the majestic California redwood trees dominate the panoramas against the powdery snow everywhere making for beautiful photography.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks  are both  excellent places to visit in California in December for hiking , photography, cabin stays, and snow activities with flat and easy trails to some of the park’s best-known sites.

There are fewer crowds, and hiking through magical winter wonderland landscapes is a wonderful experience.

You can drive around or hike to witness distinct old-growth forests, gorgeous meadows, hidden streams, lakes, and spectacular granite cliffs.

Wolverton Meadow is 2 miles north of General Sherman, the largest tree in the world, located in Sequoia National Park.

Enjoy sledging, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing at Wolverton Meadow.

Other trails worth adding to your list of hikes are the Big Trees Trail, Moro Rock, and the Alta trail.

Blue Jay Paradise , a holiday home located in Three Rivers, is 10 minutes away from Sequoia and is a perfect choice for families with spacious houses and mountain views.  Check here .  

The Quail’s Nest   located in Three Rivers in the California region features a patio and garden views.  Check more here .

For families, another recommended holiday home is  In The Oaks ,  a spacious three-bedroom house.  Find more here .

REDONDO BEACH

Redondo Beach is one of the finest beaches on the West Coast and one of the offbeat places in southern California despite its popularity.

The most popular of the three piers is the Redondo Beach Pier, which makes it one of the top things to do in South Bay, as it is also the liveliest.

It is touristy and crowded as expected, but the stunning oceanfront, the lively boardwalk packed with seafood restaurants serving delicious seafood cuisines, cute bars, and a shopping arcade. 

The pier also becomes a whale-watching site between December and April.

The beach in Redonda Beach, the southernmost point of Los Angeles County’s  South Bay Area , is excellent for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, thanks to its broad sandy beaches. 

If you are traveling with kids, I would highly recommend renting the paddleboards and get going out to Redondo Marina, which is the most famous beach for paddleboarding. The waves are not fierce, so it is ideal for beginners and kids.

After surfing, riding a standup paddleboard has become the next popular water activity in the area. King Harbour is also an awesome place for paddleboarding if want high-intensity waves. There are many rental shops close to Redondo Beach.

The best hotels near  Redondo Beach :

Shade Hotel Redondo Beach  is the most popular hotel thanks to its excellent location overlooking the marina, a waterfront restaurant and a great rooftop pool.  Book your stay here.

If you are looking for a cosy and comfortable stay, I would highly recommend  Redondo Beach Hotel , Tapestry Collection by Hilton ,  which is less than 15 minutes drive from Los Angeles International Airport and a 2-minute drive to Redondo Beach.  Check prices here .

Best Western Plus Redondo Beach Inn   offers a year-round outdoor pool, hot tub and sauna. And this  Redondo Beach  hotel is a 5-minute drive away from Redondo Beach Pier.

If you want a mid-budget, clean motel,  Seaside Motel   is a great choice.  Check here.

BODIE GHOST TOWN

If you are curious about exploring ghost towns full of mysteries, you probably know about Bodie Ghost town. Located about 20 miles southeast of Bridgeport, Bodie is one of the best secret getaways in California for a quick holiday that takes you back in time.

Bodie town, located in the Bodie hills of the Sierra Nevada mountains at an altitude of over 8300 feet, was once home to at least ten thousand miners looking for gold from 1877 to 1882 during the California gold rush, as it was one of the hot spots that generated millions.

After the rush died, this lively town declined through the 1800s and, by the 1940s, was considered a ghost town. 

It was added to the list of State Historic Parks in 1962 when the remaining houses were restored and have been conserved ever since.

Travel back in time by visiting this national landmark, where you can find a bank, ancient gold mills, old stores, a jail and lots of saloons along the main street

If you are visiting this town in winter, you have to either ski or go snowshoeing or use snowmobiles as the roads become inaccessible.

Cayucos is one of the best beach towns in northern California, located on Estero Bay in San Luis Obispo County, between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

With 5 square miles in size, this beach town is 9 minutes North of Morro Bay and 30 minutes away from Hearst Castle, with a population of only 2,600.

Visit the Cayucos State Beach, one of the main attractions known for its soothing waters and sandy beaches, making it idyllic for many adventures. You can go swimming, paddle boarding, surfing and diving.

Shop for the collectables as Cayucos will take you back in time with a wide range of antique shopping options. There are also two antique fairs a year.

You will be in for a treat, especially if you love picking up large murals, as you will find loads of notable collections of large mural walls throughout the town.

Check out the Cass Wharf, a pier known for fishing, if you want to reel in some baby fish.

Don’t miss the Cayucos pier when you are here in one of the best beach towns in California.

The 950-foot wooden pier dates back to 1872 and has historical significance as a commercial port for ships from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

You will see hundreds of fishers with their daily hustles at the pier. You will be rewarded with splendid views of the Pacific at the end of this pier.

Fishing enthusiasts can try license-free fishing at the pier. If you have spare time, take a day trip to Hearst Castle, located in San Simeon, North of Cayucos.

William Randolph Hearst established the castle in the early 20th century. Try including Estero Bluffs State Park in your itinerary.

POINT LOBOS STATE NATURAL RESERVE

A 15-minute drive from the Carmel-by-the-Sea will lead you to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, known for its fantastic hiking trails that offer splendid views of Big Sur, especially the sweeping views of the Pacific. 

The natural reserve is home to rich marine life, and you can spot seals, sea otters, pelicans, sea lions and Whales. It is an excellent spot for surfing, swimming, scuba diving, kayaking, SUP, or enjoying the panoramic views of the Pacific.

There are many stunning coves accessible by hiking or roads, with the famous ones Lobos’shaler’s Cove, Sea LDevil’se, and China Cove, known for unique colour rocks.

If you are up for hiking, check out the 6-mile trail that will take you through the ancient Monterey Cypress groves, one of Point Lobos’s main attractions. Devil’s Cauldron is also worth stopping by.

For the best bird-watching experience, check out Bird Island. If you are here in winter, you may also spot the migrating grey whales.

The other famous hiking trails leading to magnificent views are the Point Lobos Loop Trail, South Plateau Trail, South Shore Trail for watching the sea lions, and Lace Lichen Trail.

All these trails are straightforward, and you can cover several of these within 4 to 5 hours, which will take you through most of the park attractions, including tons of photo spots.

For the parking fee, getting the park pass for $10 will allow you to park in all the state parks for up to 24 hours. The reserve is open from 8 AM to 7 PM. There are also picnic tables at Point Lobos for relaxing and eating.

Note that dogs are not allowed anywhere in the park. You are not allowed to leave them in your vehicle too, so if you are planning a Big Sur road trip with your dog, you will have to skip Point Lobos Reserve.

COACHELLA VALLEY PRESERVE

If you are planning a trip to Palm Springs, you can extend your holiday by planning a day trip to the nearby Coachella Valley Preserve, one of the beautiful hidden gems of southern California known for its music festival and stunning natural landscapes that make a perfect oasis of palm trees amidst the desert sun, home to unique desert animals and flora, water holes, ponds and sand dunes.

The Coachella Valley Preserve, spanning over 17000 acres and located 15 miles east of Palm Springs in the Indio Hills, offers spectacular views of bluffs and mesas.

Do not miss spotting Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard, a unique specie found only here. You have plenty of hiking trails to choose from, depending on how far or long you wish to venture into the heart of the desert wilderness. 

You will pass through dozens of types of wild palm trees, and oases, with the popular hike being the easy and short trail to McCallum pond, less than a mile and easily accessible even if you are kids.

ANZA BORREGO DESERT STATE PARK

If you love exploring national parks in the US, you will love visiting Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, one of the beautiful and underrated hidden gems of southern California. 

This massive expanse of desert wilderness lies unbelievably close to San Diego’s best beaches, accessible by only a 2-hours drive but still remains secluded and frequented by fewer tourists, which makes it special.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park spanning 600,000 acres in San Diego County, is California’s largest state park encompassing fantastic rugged desert terrain on the east of the Peninsular Ranges, including stunning badlands, cool palm oases, winding slot canyons, and cactus-studded slopes.

Winter is the best time to visit this park as the temperatures become pleasant to explore its many hiking and biking trails and a pretty palm tree oasis. 

Check out metal sculptures, visit the art gallery, and stop at the nearby Borrego springs where you can enjoy a relaxing picnic.

Exploring the many creeks and canyons, enjoying sightings of unique wildlife, driving around the park and admiring the fantastic panoramas along the many dirt roads.

Due to its secluded and spacious excellent location, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a designated Dark Sky Community, making it one of the best places for stargazing.

With no street lights or glaring lights of the buildings, one of the best things to do in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is to spend overnight watching the star-studded spectacle of the night sky.

AVILA BEACH

Located in San Luis Obispo County, Avila Beach is one of the best Northern California beach towns.

It is known for its serene beaches, farmer’s markets and cosy beachfront restaurants. 

This pretty town has several secret beaches, some of which you can access with the help of a rope.

If you want to relax on the sandy beaches along with your pets, check out Fisherman’s Beach and Olde Port Beach, located west of central Avila Beach and San Luis Pier.

You can include a visit to the Central Coast Aquarium when you are around the main beach. You might be rewarded with the sights of Shark eggs.

If you go towards the east of this pretty town, you will come across Pirates Cove Beach and Cave Landing Beach; quite tricky to get to the latter.

If you visit the San Luis Pier, you can watch anglers reeling in some baby fish.

You can rent a kayak or paddleboard or swim on these beaches when the tides are low. Some beaches also host sand-castle building contests.

Some local rental agencies nearby are available for renting necessary gear for all the water sports. You can even try rafting if you are in a group or find one.

If you get a Kayak and have a penchant for adventure, try kayaking to the Point San Luis Lighthouse. You will be astonished by the stunning views of the ocean and Port San Luis Harbor.

Check out the Avila Valley Barn to spot local fauna and grab a snack.

If you plan to visit this one of the best Northern California Beach towns around winter, you may be lucky to spot whales on the beaches. 

Though they appear all year round, they are seen in plumps during winter.

Not to disappoint wine lovers, this beautiful town has many wineries where you can sample some local flavours.

Don’t miss visiting the Avila Wine and Roasting Company and the Alipay Cellar Tasting room for some exclusive collections.

One of the most beautiful secret spots in California for beach lovers is Oceanside located near Carlsbad. Known for its splendid pier Ruby’s Diner, excellent restaurants and waterfront bars and cafes, it is one of the best getaways to enjoy with your family as there are plenty of activities for everyone.

Stroll around or bike along the famous boardwalk enjoying the stunning views of the ocean. Sunsets are spectacular. You can surf, swim or relax on the shores. 

There are many areas for a picnic. Sail or fish during summer. There are many museums that you can add to your itinerary, including the Oceanside Museum of Art and the California Surf Museum.

MAP OF HIDDEN GEMS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

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The Family Vacation Guide

25 Of The Best Family Activities And Fun Family Day Trips In Southern California

posted by Caitlin Lloyd on March 3, 2022 // last updated on March 14, 2022

The sunshine, the sprawling sandy beaches, the breathtaking National Parks, the painted deserts, the vibrant art, and culture, are you California dreaming? Make those dreams a reality with the trip of a lifetime for you and your family to Southern California.

We have put together some of the best day trips that you and your family can enjoy on vacation in the Golden State. With iconic destinations in abundance, you will be spoilt for choice, but one thing is for sure, you are guaranteed family fun and memories to last a lifetime.

If you need a place to stay with your family during your adventure, check out our guide to the best family resorts in Southern California or if you need ideas for your entire family vacation in Southern California , we have a guide that will give you the inspiration.

1. Disneyland Park

2. disney california adventure park, 3. balboa fun zone, newport beach, 4. san diego zoo, 5. california science center, los angeles, 6. san diego botanic garden, encinitas, 7. knott’s soak city, 8. irvine spectrum center, 9. carpinteria, 10. griffith park, los angeles, 11. moorpark, 12. cabot’s pueblo museum, 13. segerstrom center for the arts , 14. magic mountain, 15. medieval times buena park, 16. seaworld san diego, 17. adventure city, 18. california citrus state historic park, 19. universal studios hollywood, 20. whitewater preserve, 21. legoland, 22. santa monica pier , 23. knott’s berry farm, 24. orange county great park, 25. san juan capistrano, final thoughts, here are 25 of the best family activities in southern california.

Disneyland Park, California, was the first Disney theme park and boasts over 50 rides and even more attractions. This iconic destination is packed with adventures for all ages.

Why not brave the Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission Breakout ride or marvel at the Indiana Jones Adventure ride for a big thrill.

Battle the First Order on the Star Wars Rise of the Resistance ride or hold on tight for the Millenium Falcon Smugglers Run.

For smaller children, why not try the Finding Nemo submarine voyage or fly around on Dumbo the Flying Elephant?

There are character experiences where your child can meet their hero, spectacular shows and entertainment put on throughout the day, and plenty of themed restaurants and eateries to choose from, offering everything from burgers to donuts.

If you’re looking to plan a trip to Disneyland Park, why not check out our guide to the best hotels near Disneyland, Anaheim ?

This 72-acre theme park is the second of its kind to be built on the Disneyland Resort. It is split into eight themed areas, including Cars Land, Avengers Campus, and Pixar Pier.

Each themed area has rides and attractions based around much-loved films and characters.

Why not jump aboard the Incredicoaster and chase Jack-Jack from the Incredibles, or travel under the sea on the Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure?

Or, for something a bit different, head to the Animation Building and receive step-by-step guidance on how to draw like the Disney animators. Or, immerse yourself in Disney with the 3D fantasy adventure showing at the Sunset Showcase theatre.

There is a great selection of restaurants and shops to explore, so grab yourself a Disney souvenir.

Hoping to find some more family fun in the area? Here is our list of the best family things to do in Anaheim, California to make the most of your stay here.

Found in the city of Newport Beach, Orange County, the Balboa Park is right on the oceanfront and mixes classic seaside day trips out with fun rides, shops, and restaurants.

Enjoy a ride on the Ferris wheel or test your nerves on a bungee jump. If you fancy getting wet, you can slide your way down the Fish Pipe slide. There is a Nautical Museum to explore, and you can play arcade games on the seafront.

There are day trips on the harbor cruise where you can look out for whales, or if you prefer to keep your feet on dry land, you could hire a bike and explore the coastline that way. 

Why not venture out to Catalina Island? A rocky island with beautiful beaches just off the coast of Southern California, Catalina Island is a short trip from Newport Beach, offering ideal weekend getaways.

Take a read through our guide to the best things to do in Newport Beach with kids to make the most of your visit.

The San Diego Zoo houses over 12,000 animals from 650 species meaning you are guaranteed to see your favorite animals and learn about new ones. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Diego County and perhaps one of the best family activities in Southern California.

As well as checking out all of the amazing animals that live at the zoo including species from all over the world, there are many other activities to enjoy.

Try the fantastic 4D cinema experience bringing films such as Jungle Book to life. Or, take a trip on the Balboa miniature train ride and the Skyfari aerial tram. There are presentations throughout the day and great adventure play areas for your little monkeys!

There are restaurants, cafes, and a large gift shop selling t-shirts, tote bags, and cuddly animal toys.

If you’re planning a trip to the San Diego area and are still looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at our guide to the best family hotels in San Diego .

Located next to the Natural History Museum, the Science Center is a museum that inspires scientific curiosity with engaging, interactive exhibits, hands-on experiences, and experiments.

Divided into areas of natural science and general interest, the Science Center has many permanent exhibits such as Life Begining, Fire Safety, and Ecosystems, as well as housing special short-term exhibitions to capture your imagination.

The permanent exhibits are free to get into, and although there is a small charge to see the short-term exhibits, it is well worth the extra money as you can see incredible things such as life-size Lego artwork that showcases the human body.

You can watch films all about various scientific topics on the seven-story high 3D screen or marvel at the sight of the Space Shuttle Endeavor, which is on display.

You can take your own snacks, visit the market shop for prepackaged sandwiches, or check out the restaurants to fill up on burgers and pizzas.

These 37-acre botanical gardens house some of the most beautiful and rare plants on the planet. It also boasts the biggest interactive kids garden in San Diego and the West Coast.

There are over 5,000 varieties of plants from all corners of the globe, including California native varieties, tropical plants, and subtropical natural wonders.

Younger children can participate in a scavenger hunt around the Hamilton Children’s Garden, the interactive space built especially for your little ones.

They can climb to the top of tree houses and scramble down the climbing net to make music on the bamboo chimes.

There is a beautiful gift shop selling local art and botanical treasures, and if the plants have inspired you, there is a plant shop too.

Situated adjacent to Knott’s Berry Farm amusement park, this 15-acre waterpark is full of amazing slides and thrill rides for all the family. There is a huge tidal wave pool where you can pretend you are in the sea and jump the waves or test your swimming skills. Grab the family and jump aboard the inflatable raft for some super-soaking fun!

For the stronger swimmers, brave the speed and body slides or the six waterslide experiences. Race against five others on the Banzai Falls water slide or speed down the 43-foot high Lagoona Storm Watchtower slide.

There is a three-story beach house to climb and explore with interactive surprises and water cannons to shoot at each other. Twist and turn on the Malibu Run slide or simply relax on a rubber ring around the Lazy River.

An on-site restaurant called Longboards is ready to warm you up as you dry off with their selection of burgers, hot dogs, and fish and chips.

This shopping and lifestyle center has everything you need to keep the whole family entertained, from quaint shops and restaurant experiences to fun attractions like live entertainment and rides for the kids.

Shop till you drop, with a wide range of high street and designer brands to be found. Relax while the kids enjoy the Giant Wheel, Carousel, or the Spectrum Climber climbing frame with 75 platforms to climb and navigate through.

Try your hand at cake decorating or challenge the family to the Escape Room, where you have to work together to figure out clues and solve puzzles to beat the timer.

There is a selection of restaurants offering full service, casual dining, snacks, and light bites. From seafood to pizza, BBQ to cheesecakes, there is something for everyone.

The small but beautiful oceanside city of Carpinteria in South-Eastern Santa Barbara is known for its long beautiful beach, which boasts some good swell for surfing.

Look out for marine life such as seals and the occasional grey whale, or grab a net and bucket and go exploring through the tidal pools to discover all sorts of small ocean life, like starfish or crabs.

The beach is perfect for those day trips where you want to relax and enjoy nature, take a stroll on the sand or jump the waves.

You can take out a boat on the ocean for a spot of whale watching or try your hand at catching some waves with a surf lesson. There are other water sports available too if you are feeling adventurous.

There is also a tennis court where you can have fun practicing that backhand swing or take the kids for a dip in the community swimming pool.

If you’re hoping to find other sandy locations for some family fun, why not explore our guide to the best family beaches in southern California ?

The second-largest urban park in California, Griffith Park is spread over 4,300 acres and is a great place to spot some native wildlife. It is a wilderness in the middle of the urban landscapes of Los Angeles.

There are plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, or you can hire a bike and try the mountain bike trails. Maybe even saddle up for horseback riding and pony treks. In addition, you can take a train ride around the park or take in a few rounds of golf on the course.

It is also home to other attractions such as the Los Angeles Zoo, a railroad museum, and the Griffith Observatory, a space observatory, planetarium, and astronomy museum from which you can see the world-famous Hollywood sign. The observatory is free to enter and affords great views of downtown LA.

Or, if you’re hoping to find out more about Los Angeles and where to stay, have a read through our guide to the best hotels in Los Angeles for families .

Moorpark is a city located in Southern California, known for its 20 parks. There are various recreational activities here, such as a skate park, tennis courts, and soccer fields. There are other exciting attractions nearby too.

Visit the Americas’ Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College and get hands-on experience with over 150 exotic animals. Or, make your way to the High Street Arts Center and take in a show.

Enjoy a train ride and feed the animals at the Underwood family farms, a fully working farm where you can pick fruit, learn how the farm runs, and even have a pony ride. The farm has its own market where you can pick up some of the fresh products from the farm. 

A historic house museum built of materials only found in the desert, Cabot’s Pueblo Museum is open to the public to explore and offers guided tours. It is home to some fantastic art and artifacts which can be viewed in the museum in the house.

You can grab a Nature Quest leaflet and cross off all the native desert flora and fauna, as well as keep your eyes peeled for some of the native animals in this area.

Take in the beautiful design elements of the house and then take a walk to the Meditation garden. Finally, visit the Trading Post to pick up some truly unique pottery, jewelry, and gifts.

Orange County’s biggest non-profit arts center provides an excellent opportunity for you to take the family to see a show.

There are multiple theatres, including an Opera-style house and a smaller intimate venue. Shows range from Broadway musicals to ballet to local theatre company productions, so there is something for everyone.

Once you have enjoyed the show, why not treat yourself to dinner at one of the many different restaurant choices nearby?

Located in downtown Los Angeles, this 262-acre theme park is one of the most popular, with the largest selection of rollercoasters and rides in the region.

Now called Six Flags Magic Mountain, the park is split into two parts. And although many of the rides are deemed extreme, there are plenty of attractions and rides to keep smaller kids happy.

Parents can ride alongside their little ones on the Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racer rollercoaster, or why not spin around in the teacups or ride the classic carousel?

For the older kids, hold on tight on the Batman rollercoaster or make a splash on the Jet Stream log flume. Have your picture taken with your favorite hero with the meet and greet character experience.

There are restaurants and gift shops on-site, ensuring a fun day out for all.

Flipping the idea of a traditional restaurant on its head, Medieval Times is an immersive experience from the moment you set foot inside the castle.

Explore the castle grounds and meet the stunning birds of prey and horses. Explore the souvenir shop and don your knight’s colors in a show of support.

This is truly a theatrical experience for all the senses.

You order your food, and while you eat, you watch a full re-enactment of a medieval jousting competition complete with horses and knights.

Cheer them on as they go into battle and even take your photo with the winning knight. It is a fun, authentic medieval experience guaranteed to liven up your dinner!

San Diego SeaWorld is a marine mammal park home to some of the most beautiful marine life, such as orcas, dolphins, and sea lions.

There are many shows to catch throughout the day, including Orca Encounter, Dolphin Days, and Sea Lions Live. Watch as these spectacular sea creatures play, perform tricks and entertain all of the family.

Learn all about them and their natural habitats and behaviors, and even get up close as you watch them swim past and even splash you!

It is a fun place for rides, boasting many attractions for all ages, including the wet and wild Shipwreck Rapids, the Bayside Skyride, and the thrilling Riptide Rescue. There is also an interactive children’s play area called Sesame Streets Bay of Play for all the little ones.

There are restaurants and eateries on-site, catering to all needs. Then why not treat yourself to a stuffed marine animal toy from the many gift shops as a souvenir of your day?

Although it is one of the smallest amusement parks, it sure packs in a lot for its size, with 17 rides, shows, and attractions to enjoy.

Choose your color balloon and hop into the basket for the Balloon Race ride, or try your hand at flying your own mini plane on the Barnstormer Planes. Jump on the classic carousel, or for a little more speed, why not brave the Freeway Coaster?

If you are looking for something more adventurous, why not try your hand a rock climbing, ascending the 24-foot rock climbing tower. You can also spend time with some animals as there is a petting farm on-site with sheep, goats, and pigs waiting for a cuddle.

There is an assortment of snack bars and ice cream huts, too, for when you need to refuel. Why not end your day taking in a live show at Stage 39?

This open-air museum celebrates the importance of the citrus industry in Southern Californian history. Guided tours are available, as well as displays of the old citrus grove equipment from the 1900s, a picnic area, and an amphitheater.

You can also explore by hiking, biking, or even horse riding in the surrounding park.

Why not have a go at the Tag Hunt, a scavenger hunt designed to keep the kids busy looking for animal footprints, burrows, trees, and flowers?

There is plenty to discover around the park, including a visitor center, growers’ house, and over 100 citrus grove plants.

One of the most recognizable attractions when thinking about day trips in Southern California is Universal Studios Hollywood. There is so much fun to be had, including incredible experiences for film fanatics and amazing rides for those thrill-seekers among you.

Have fun with all your favorite Minions in the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem or join Snowball, Duke, and Max in the Secret Life of Pet’s new ride Off The Leash.

Are you brave enough to jump aboard the speeding cars in The Fast and the Furious Supercharged 3D experience or scare yourself silly riding through the desert in the Revenge of the Mummy ride?

There are themed restaurants and character experiences to be had – have your picture taken with your film and TV favorites, then grab a souvenir from the gift shop.

This is a great day out with so many more film-themed rides and attractions for all the family.

This is a place of stunning natural beauty with 2,851 acres of natural landscape to explore, including the white water river. There are plenty of hiking trails to take you through the area, too.

There are picnic areas and a visitor center for more information on the area’s flora, fauna, and wildlife.

Grab a checklist from the visitor center and get the kids to check off all the amphibians, reptiles, birds, and flowers you find on your trail.

There is also an opportunity to camp for the night, perfect for those weekend getaways, ensuring the kids have a real back-to-nature adventure.

Lego is one of the most recognizable toys globally; we have all played with the small colorful brick at some point in our childhood. So why not explore the fantastic Lego world at Legoland California?

There are over 60 rides, attractions, and shows to enjoy at Legoland California, and even a SeaLife Aquarium and Legoland Water Park. The themed areas are great for fans of films with Star Wars, Fun Town, Ninjago, and more.

Get dizzy as you spin around on the Bionical Blaster, where the more you turn the wheel, the faster you spin. Or climb aboard the Skipper School as you become the captain of your own Lego boat.

Keep your eyes peeled for the gigantic Lego dinosaurs as you race round on the Coastersaurus rollercoaster or climb up the triple-decker flying couch and experience the Lego Movie world in 3D on Emmet’s Flying Adventure ride.

There is also plenty of themed restaurants and a gift shop full of Lego memorabilia.

This National Historic Landmark was built in 1909 and is an iconic part of the Californian coastline. There is an amusement park at the end of the pier, and it is free to enter.

The famous solar-powered Ferris wheel stands proudly at the end of the pier giving its riders a 130-feet high view of the ocean below.

Join the high seas on the Sea Dragon, the 180 degree swinging pirate ship, or brave the 45-foot plunge at the end of the gondola ride on Pacific Plunge.

Bounce up and down on Inky’s Frog Hopper drop tower or get behind the wheel of the mini bumper cars on Inky’s SIG Alert. There are 12 fun rides to enjoy at the amusement park.

Head to the arcade to try your hand at over 200 classic games, or if you are feeling peckish, why not grab something to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes?

There is no admission charge making it a perfect day out for the family. You can even buy a trinket or souvenir at one of the many little shops on offer.

We’ve created a guide on the best Santa Monica family hotels , ready for you to plan your next trip.

With 40 attractions, this 57-acre amusement park is divided into four themed areas. There is plenty to discover, including a classic stagecoach ride for the family so you can relax while you take in the sights of Camp Snoopy, Fiesta Village, and the Ghost Town.

In the Fiesta Village, you will find rides such as the Jaguar roller coaster. Or, especially for children, the Dragon Swing pirate ship and the Wave Swinger.

More rides specifically built for small children and families can be found at Camp Snoopy. You could relax on the classic High Sierra Ferris Wheel, climb into the basket of a balloon as you go up and away in the Balloon Race, or practice your flying skills as you climb aboard your own plane on the Flying Ace.

There is also an assortment of rides at The Boardwalk and Ghost Town areas. There are also dozens of eateries and restaurants, or why not do a bit of window shopping in the numerous shops on-site? It is adjacent to Knott’s Soak City waterpark, perfect for maximizing two-day trips.

This disused Marine Corps air station is now home to some unique attractions. For aircraft fans, there is a large hangar with a variety of aircraft on display.

Or, if art is your thing, there is a rotating art gallery showcasing some of the best local artists’ work. For the little ones, there is a classic carousel ride. Or, for the more adventurous, why not take a ride in the iconic helium Great Park Balloon and be lifted 400 feet in the air for a spectacular view of the park and surrounding areas.

If you are feeling brave, try the new ice skating Great Ice Park attraction which is open all year round. There is also a playground and picnic areas. Look out for performances at the 12,000-seat outdoor amphitheater, or grab a bite at one of the eateries on offer.

This city is a short train ride from Los Angeles and is packed with culture. Why not visit the historic buildings, churches, and monasteries in San Juan Capistrano?

Head to Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park and see the sights following hiking trails; you can hire a bike and cycle your way around, or perhaps even on horseback. There are special horse riding tours you can join and hiking guides to avoid getting lost.

Take the kids to the Los Rios park to burn off some energy on the climbing frames and slides. Or why not take your little ones to meet some friendly animals at Zoomars, a little petting farm, where they can feed guinea pigs, groom goats, and even have a ride on a pony.

Eateries, cafes, and markets offer all kinds of artisan food creations, pottery, and art.

What is the total number of rides at Disney California Adventure?

Disney California Adventure has 34 rides with many more attractions to be enjoyed.

When is the best time of the year to visit the San Diego Zoo?

Spring, late fall, and early winter are the best times to visit the San Diego Zoo, you miss the crowds in the summer, and because the weather is cooler, the animals tend to be more active in the afternoon. Also, kids go free in October.

Are there dining options at the California Science Center?

An on-site coffee bar and a market sell prepackaged salads, sandwiches, snacks and bottled drinks for on the go. If you prefer, you could dine in and have a burger or pizza at the Trimana Grill. You are permitted to bring your own snacks and bottled drinks if you prefer.

Are dogs allowed at the San Diego Botanical Garden?

Unless it is a licensed service animal, no dogs are allowed to ensure the preservation of the gardens.

There is so much to discover in Southern California that it would take a lifetime to fit it all in. There is something for everyone here, from landmarks to museums, amusements to water parks, pony treks to hill hikes.

Hopefully, you have been inspired and can look forward to planning your amazing Golden State adventure, turning your California dream into a reality.

Are you planning on visiting Southern California but are still looking for somewhere to stay? We’ve gathered a list of the best family beach vacations in Southern California that will be perfect for your next family trip.

More about our TFVG Author

Caitlin Lloyd

Caitlin is one of The Family Vacation Guide's long standing contributors. She enjoys taking vacation to busy, vibrant cities and has stretched her traveling legs out towards Europe in recent months, enjoying new experiences in Barcelona in Spain, and Nice in France.

About Caitlin Lloyd

10 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Southern California

Angela is the staff writer for Only in Your State - Southern California.

More by this Author

Summertime is the best time to explore all your favorite parts of Southern California, plus all the new spots that are waiting to be checked off your summer bucket list. Here are some of our favorite spaces and places that you’ll want nothing more than to savor this summer. From breezy oceanside day trips to charming small-town destinations, these are the best day trips in Southern California !

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How’s that for the perfect summer activity list? Any plans to do these epic day trips in Southern California? Go ahead and add these destinations to your to-do list, and you’ll have one unforgettable summer! Tell us which of these ideas is your favorite!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Day trips in southern california.

What are the most well-known parks in Southern California?

• Some of the most well-known parks in Southern California include Angeles National Forest and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The lush Angeles National Forest is a beautiful place to hike and have a quick and beautiful getaway from the busy city life of Los Angeles.
• If you're a fan of desert landscapes and camping under the stars, you'll definitely like Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Keep an eye out for the wildflower season too. It's an amazing and memorable time to make the drive out to the desert.

What are the best beaches in Southern California ?

While it's tough to choose just one or two beaches in one of the vacation capitals of America, two of the best beaches in Southern California are Santa Monica Beach in Los Angeles and La Jolla Shores Beach in San Diego.

• Santa Monica Beach is stunning and is one of the most spacious beaches in the region. There is plenty of room for volleyball, sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle-building. It's also right by the quirky and fun Venice Beach, which is a great place to enjoy art and take a walk.
• La Jolla Shores is a perfect family beach and has lots of opportunities to learn to surf and paddleboard. The local restaurants and shops are a major draw to this beach too.

What is the hottest month of the year in Southern California?

The hottest month of the year in Southern California is August, with an average high of 84 degrees and an average low of 66 degrees in Los Angeles. If you take one of these day trips in the hottest month of the year, just be sure to drink plenty of water and take your sunscreen. Some of these trips could even be perfect for cooling off. If you head to the beach, this is a great time to take a swim in the normally chilly ocean!

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Best places to visit in august 2024.

Late summer is generally marked by hot days and the desire to squeeze in one more vacation. That's why U.S. News evaluated attractions, events and weather (among other factors) to bring you this list of the best places to visit in August. From mountain reprieves to lake getaways , there's a destination on this ranking for every traveler to enjoy. Vote below to help determine next year's list.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Vancouver, canada, masai mara national reserve, kluane national park and reserve, outer banks, white mountains, coeur d'alene.

Fiji is an excellent place to visit in August. Although this month falls within Fiji's cooler, drier season, daytime temperatures commonly sit in the low 80s, so you can spend the bulk of your vacation sunbathing on its white sand beaches and swimming in its vibrant blue water. Plus, several of the country's 333 islands – including Taveuni, the Mamanucas and the Yasawas – offer ample opportunities for water sports like surfing and scuba diving. The rich Fiji culture also features all kinds of unique traditions, such as kava and firewalking ceremonies.

When it comes to summer vacations, why settle for one lake when you can visit two? Interlaken – a scenic Swiss town whose name means between lakes – is set in an idyllic spot between the dazzling lakes Thun and Brienz and surrounded by mountains. August temperatures in the mid-70s will allow you to take in the area's natural beauty while hiking, boating or paragliding, though you'll want to pack some rain gear for occasional wet weather. What's more, if you plan your visit around Aug. 1, you'll be able to participate in the area's Swiss National Day celebration, which includes bonfires, a folk festival and a parade.

While a case can be made for a quieter shoulder-season trip, Lake Como is in its prime at the height of summer. Visiting during the high season may mean more tourists and higher room rates, but you'll be able to take in the lakeside towns, villas and beaches at their most lustrous. Take a boat cruise across the lake to stroll through the blooming gardens of iconic villas like Villa Balbianello. Sample peak produce at open-air markets or freshly caught fish in the many dining venues with a view. Or simply see and be seen on one of the area's beaches or lakeside pools.

A trip to Rocky Mountain National Park in August will ensure almost all trails will be accessible and the weather will be pleasant, so you'll have every opportunity to take in the park's mountainous beauty. Wildflowers dot the meadows and bighorn sheep are commonly seen this time of year, too. Popular hikes and vistas become busy this time of year, and you'll need to reserve a timed entry permit available on July 1, but you can easily find quieter options among the park's 355 miles of trails. Combat the crowds by arriving early in the day and taking the park's shuttles instead of driving.

Vancouver, the most populous city in British Columbia, is a vibrant destination that offers something for all visitors. As one of the driest, warmest months (think: temperatures in the low 70s), August is a superb time to take it all in. Thrill-seekers can cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge or hike the grueling Grouse Grind (both just north of the city), while those who prefer a more leisurely outdoor experience can take a Vancouver Harbour cruise or relax on some of the city's beaches. Vancouver Pride Festival also takes place early in the month and features a parade and performances to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.

The Mediterranean island of Cyprus has a lot to offer beyond its beaches, including a myth-laden history, but a visit during one of the hottest months of the year will make its sandy stretches look pretty enticing. Sun seekers can bask under cloudless skies, and when the temperatures get too warm (think: 90 degree averages), visitors can cool off by Jet Skiing, swimming and paddleboarding. Later, beach bums and water lovers alike will want to treat themselves to some fresh Cypriot cuisine paired with local wine (including some of the oldest named wine in the world).

August brings some of the warmest temperatures of the year to Montenegro, as well as throngs of travelers looking to bask on this Balkan country's beaches. Montengro's coastline on the Adriatic Sea and its inlets boasts scenic towns like Budva and Kotor, where you'll find charming old towns and blissful stretches of sand. To cool off and escape the crowds, retreat to the country's mountainous interior to hike in destinations like Durmitor National Park and Biogradska Gora National Park.

Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve is one of Africa's most frequented safari destinations , especially in August when wildlife viewing opportunities are superb. August is usually a great time to catch the Great Migration, an annual journey by more than 2 million wildebeest, zebras and other animals from Tanzania's Serengeti National Park into Masai Mara. What's more, the reserve is a year-round haven for additional animal species, including the big five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes), earning it a reputation as one of Africa's most diverse areas.

Head to Kluane National Park and Reserve in Canada's Yukon region if you want to enjoy an unconventional summer vacation. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll discover the world's largest nonpolar icefield and Canada's highest mountain, Mount Logan. Sign up for a flightseeing tour to view Kluane's glaciers from the air or take advantage of the mild, incredibly long summer days by exploring the park on foot. A boat ride around Kathleen Lake or a rafting excursion down the Alsek River are also fun ways to admire your surroundings.

America's Finest City is warm and dry in August, giving you ample opportunities to soak up some sun. If you're eager to spend time at the beach, you'll find 70 miles of coastline  ideal for everything from surfing to swimming to paddleboarding. Away from the shore, there's Balboa Park, where you can admire beautiful architecture, check out various museums and explore the world-renowned San Diego Zoo . Plus, San Diego is home to an exceptional dining scene and a plethora of live music venues to round out your trip.

Summer is peak season in this Croatian town, so you'll likely rub elbows with other travelers during an August visit. However, Rovinj's beauty will more than make up for the influx of tourists. In August, you can comfortably walk along the car-free cobblestone streets of Rovinj's Old Town thanks to daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s. This month is also a great time to explore Grisia Street, which hosts an open-air art exhibition in August. If you need a break from the town's throngs of people, take a day trip to one of 14 nearby islands.

Plan an Outer Banks vacation in August to enjoy toasty beach weather (think: average highs in the mid-80s) and fun festivals like the Outer Banks Watermelon Festival and the Outer Banks Pirate Festival. These North Carolina barrier islands are ideal for all kinds of beach activities, including sailing, surfing and sunbathing. Plus, some of them are rich in history. Head to Kill Devil Hills to visit Wright Brothers National Memorial (where the famous pilots took their first flight), or venture to Roanoke Island to check out Roanoke Island Festival Park's exhibits about what life was like in the 16th century.

Trade your ski poles for a hiking stick and visit New Hampshire's White Mountains in summertime, when the area's gorges, bike trails and more than 100 waterfalls are at their most lush. Action-seekers can climb Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, where they'll be rewarded with views of five states. Meanwhile, those looking for a more easygoing summer afternoon can go for a scenic drive or take in the views with a cocktail in hand on the terrace of Omni Mount Washington Resort . With August averages in the 60s and 70s, the weather will be ripe for any outdoor adventure.

Curacao is the perfect destination for those seeking a late summer Caribbean getaway thanks to its location outside the hurricane belt. Sustained daytime temperatures in the high 80s and low 90s mean you'll likely spend most of your vacation lounging on the beach or swimming past marine life, coral reefs and shipwrecks while scuba diving. But the charming, colorful Dutch colonial architecture found in the UNESCO-certified capital – Willemstad – is worth exploring, too. Plus, with fewer mega resorts and more boutique resorts and bed-and-breakfast establishments, Curacao has a more relaxed feel than other Caribbean destinations and is a great place to reset.

With festivals, prime weather and outdoor activities galore, Coeur d'Alene is the perfect destination for a summer send-off. This northern Idaho city boasts easily accessible golf courses (including one with a unique floating green), bike paths and parks, while its eponymous 26-mile lake is ideal for boating and fishing come August. The city ushers in the month with popular events like the Coeur d'Alene Street Fair and Taste of Coeur d'Alene, which showcase local shops, breweries and crafts. Coeur d'Alene also caters to a variety of budgets, with accommodation options ranging from campsites to cabins to amenity-filled resorts.

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10 places to catch live music throughout Southern California this summer

S outhern California is a haven for music lovers, offering a diverse array of live music venues that cater to every taste. From massive concerts to outdoor festivals, this region is alive with the sound of music, but not everyone loves to navigate a multi-day festival or deal with concert crowds. Whether you’re a fan of jazz, folk, rock, or eclectic local acts, there are more casual spots for you to enjoy live performances this summer, including bars, coffee shops, and parks.

Dive into our curated list of top places to catch some tunes this summer season.

Folk Music Center

Discover the hidden gem of Claremont at the Folk Music Center, owned by Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Ben Harper’s family, where music enthusiasts can enjoy live performances by emerging local artists. This store is home to a collection of rare and antique musical instruments and cultural artifacts from around the world, creating an enchanting atmosphere for music lovers. Events are held on the last Sunday of every month, inviting guests to shop and enjoy live music. Sign-ups for Open Mic nights begin at 6 p.m., and entry is just two dollars, making it accessible for all. For special guest artists, events are typically held on Saturdays, such as Roy Zimmerman who’s slated for Saturday, June 22, entry starts at $25.

Where : 220 N Yale Ave, Claremont

When : 6 p.m. Sunday, June 30

Tickets : Available at the door for $2

Jazz at Lacma

For jazz lovers, Jazz at the LACMA museum is where jazz musicians such as Wayne Shorter, The Yellowjackets, Quincy Jones All Star Orchestra with John Clayton and more have graced the stage for over three decades. This summer series offers an evening of music in the museum’s plaza. Seating is first-come, first-served, but feel free to bring a picnic and relax on the grass—while you might snag a spot further back from the stage, you’ll still have a birdseye view of the band and the sounds. Join the festivities on Friday evenings in LACMA’s welcoming plaza, just behind Urban Light.

Where : 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles

When : 6 p.m. Friday evenings throughout the summer

Tickets : Free, first-come, first-served seating

Kulak’s Woodshed

Nestled in North Hollywood, Kulak’s Woodshed is a beloved haven for singer-songwriters and music enthusiasts alike. Founded by Paul Kulak in 1999, this intimate venue has become a community-supported gem where musicians of all skill levels, from beginners to Grammy winners, showcase their talents. The venue hosts an open mic night every Monday, offering a unique blend of live music, recording studio, and webcast production. With a strict no drugs or alcohol policy, Kulak’s Woodshed emphasizes a family-friendly atmosphere.

Where : 5230 1/2 Laurel Canyon Blvd, North Hollywood, CA

When : Every Monday, Open Mic begins at 8 PM

Tickets : Sign-up starts at 6:30 PM for band performances and 7:00 PM for solo acts. The suggested donation is $5-$20, depending on the performance type.

101st Redlands Summer Music Series

Experience the charm of the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival , America’s longest continuously running summer music festival, with no admission charge. The 101st season promises a diverse lineup, featuring performances every Tuesday and Friday through Aug. 16, except for July 5. Shows begin at 8 p.m. on performance evenings at the Bowl, seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The season opens June 21 with Americas Got Talent 2018 Finalist Daniel Emmet, recently seen in a PBS special, “Simply the Best.”

Where : 25 Grant Street, Redlands, CA 92373

When : Every Tuesday and Friday, June – August, at 8:00 p.m.

Tickets : Free admission, donations welcome. More information can be found at redlandsbowl.org

Manhattan Beach Concerts in the Park

Experience Manhattan Beach’s vibrant community spirit through its annual Concerts in the Park series, held every Sunday evening from June 30 to Sept. 1 at the Polliwog Park Amphitheater. This popular event offers a mix of musical genres, featuring both local talent and tribute bands. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic baskets to enjoy a relaxing evening under the stars while listening to music for free. Highlights of this year’s lineup include The Satin Dollz, Psychedelic Summer Band, The Kings of 88 and Radio Royalty.

Where : Polliwog Park Amphitheater, 1601 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, CA

When : 5 p.m. Every Sunday from June 30 to Sept. 1

Tickets : Free admission. For more details, visit manhattanbeach.gov

Jones Coffee Roasters – Pasadena

Jones Coffee Roasters in Pasadena offers a rich and eclectic live music program that transforms this local coffee spot favorite into a cultural hub. From jazz to pop, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of performances while sipping on espresso.

The lineup includes the Morgan Jones Trio, playing a blend of jazz and other styles every Monday morning from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. If modern jazz is your preference, catch the Coffee Shop Jazz Trio on Tuesday mornings at 8:30 a.m., led by the renowned Matt Politano. For a touch of fun pop music with cellos and guitars, the Jones House Band performs every second Thursday of the month from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays feature Jenny & The Jazz Birds from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., known for their classic jazz sound.

Where : Jones Coffee Roasters, 693 S. Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105

When : Various days and times throughout the week

Tickets : Free admission. For more information, visit jonescoffeeroasters.com.

Edwin Mills

Nestled in the heart of Old Pasadena, Edwin Mills offers a blend of live music, food and a lively atmosphere. This gastropub tavern, housed in a building over a century old, features exposed beams and brick walls that add a historical charm to its ambiance. Edwin Mills is known for its music lineup that caters to jazz enthusiasts and beyond. You can enjoy live performances from local artists like the Riner Scivally Trio, San Manuel Trio, and Jumpin Joz Band. Music happens every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday night.

Where : 22 Mills Pl, Pasadena, CA 91105

When : Check the Edwin Mills events page for the latest schedule.

Tickets : Free entry, but reservations are recommended for guaranteed seating. edwinmills.com.

Pacific Wine Merchants

Pacific Wine Merchants in Upland is ideal for wine, beer, and cigar enthusiasts. Nestled in a charming historic building, this venue boasts a wide selection of wines by the glass, craft beers on tap, and a well-stocked humidor with premium cigars. The inviting outdoor patio is cigar-friendly and perfect for unwinding with friends or family. Enjoy live music from talented local artists every Friday and Saturday evening from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Where : 210 E A St, Upland, CA 91786

When : 6 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays

Tickets : No tickets required; call (909) 946-6782 for more information.

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The Night Owl

The Night Owl in Downtown Fullerton is a spot that combines the charm of a cozy coffee shop with the energy of a live music venue. Known for its organic coffees and teas and its friendly atmosphere, it has become a beloved hangout for locals since its opening in 2011. The Night Owl hosts live music performances mostly on Friday and Saturday nights, starting at 9 p.m. They also have an open mic night on the first Tuesday of each month, making it a perfect venue for both musicians and music lovers. The venue’s inviting patio is the perfect setting to enjoy a range of genres from acoustic to folk and jazz. For those interested in performing, the Night Owl encourages local artists to submit their videos for a chance to be featured.

Where : 200 N Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, CA 92832

When : Friday and Saturday nights for live music, Open Mic on the first Tuesday of each month.

Tickets : Visit tnofullerton.com.

The Hideaway Cafe & Lounge

For a unique and intimate live music experience, head over to The Hideaway Cafe & Lounge in Riverside. Known for its funky vibe and local spirit, The Hideaway features live music that spans various genres, providing something for every music enthusiast. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a handcrafted cocktail or groove to the beats of a local band, The Hideaway Cafe & Lounge is a hidden gem in Riverside’s nightlife scene. Whether you’re in the mood for Salsa and Bachata Wednesdays, Open Mic Tuesdays or DJs on Fridays, they have it all.

Where : 3660 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501

When : Check their website for the latest event schedule.

Tickets : For tickets and information visit thehideawaycafe.org.

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