Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles 2025

Los Angeles gives you sunny weather, endless dining, and a constant buzz—but it also sits within easy reach of beaches, deserts, islands, vineyards, and mountains. That location makes it the perfect launchpad for weekend getaways from Los Angeles. In just a few hours, you can swap freeway views for cliffside sunsets, palm oases, alpine lakes, or historic wine towns.

This guide rounds up the best weekend destinations near Los Angeles, with practical travel times, why each place shines, top things to do, and where to stay. You’ll also find smart advice on packing, budgets, and the best seasons to go. Whether you want short trips near Los Angeles for relaxation, outdoor adventure, or cultural flavor, you’ll leave with an easy plan for a refreshing 2–3 day escape.

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Why Plan a Weekend Getaway from Los Angeles?

Short breaks reset your energy, spark creativity, and strengthen relationships without using much vacation time. Moreover, Southern California’s geography packs remarkable variety within a 2–3 hour radius, so you can trade traffic for trailheads, tide pools, or tasting rooms faster than you think.

Travel times run efficiently: most coastal and mountain towns sit 1.5–3 hours away by car, while the Pacific Surfliner train links LA to Santa Barbara and San Diego in about 2.5–3 hours. Two nights (or a long weekend of three) gives you enough time to slow down, see the highlights, and return refreshed.

Why should I plan a weekend trip from Los Angeles?

• You’ll recharge fast, spend less time commuting than on a long vacation, and still experience new scenery, food, and culture. With many destinations 100–150 miles away, a 2–3 day getaway offers maximum impact with minimal planning.

Solo Traveler? You MUST read this: Solo Trip to Los Angeles

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Top Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

Santa Barbara — California’s American Riviera

• Distance/Travel Time: Drive about 95 miles (2 hours via US-101) or ride Amtrak Pacific Surfliner from Union Station (around 2.5–3 hours).
• Why Visit: Red-tiled roofs, Mediterranean-style neighborhoods, and a beachfront promenade create a relaxed coastal mood. You’ll find a compact downtown, strong wine scene, and plenty of scenic walks.
• Top Things to Do:
  • Stroll Stearns Wharf and the waterfront bike path.
  • Tour Mission Santa Barbara and its rose gardens.
  • Taste along the Funk Zone’s urban wineries and craft breweries.
  • Hike Inspiration Point for coastal panoramas.
• Where to Stay: Choose boutique downtown hotels near State Street for walkability, beach resorts for views, or budget motels near the 101 for value. Book early on major platforms (e.g., Booking/Expedia) to lock flexible, refundable rates.
• Best Time to Visit: March–June and September–November offer mild temps (60s–70s°F) and fewer crowds; summer brings beach buzz. A weekend getaway from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara suits travelers who want elegance without the hassles of a longer trip. Because you can arrive by train, you can skip parking and enjoy tastings safely. Additionally, the compact layout lets you cover highlights in two days. Add a wine-tasting shuttle or rideshare to keep plans simple and stress-free.

Palm Springs — Mid-century Cool and Desert Sunshine

• Distance/Travel Time: Drive 107 miles (about 2 hours via I-10). FlixBus and Amtrak Thruway buses also connect from LA.
• Why Visit: Sunshine most of the year, iconic mid-century architecture, poolside lounging, and easy access to desert hiking make Palm Springs a classic SoCal escape.
• Top Things to Do:
  • Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to mountain trails and pine forests.
  • Browse vintage shops and design galleries along Palm Canyon Drive.
  • Explore Palm Canyon in Indian Canyons for fan palm oases.
  • Day-trip to nearby hot springs in Desert Hot Springs.
• Where to Stay: Mid-century boutique hotels for retro charm, resort pools for downtime, or value inns in Cathedral City. For deals, compare packages that bundle resort credits or spa access.
• Best Time to Visit: October–April brings perfect pool weather (70s–80s°F). Summers run hot (100+°F), but you’ll find great hotel rates and quiet mornings. A weekend getaway from Los Angeles to Palm Springs pairs relaxation with modern design. You can plan a low-effort trip: lounge by the pool in the day, then dine on a shaded patio at night. Moreover, off-peak summer deals make stylish stays surprisingly affordable if you start early and plan around the heat.

Joshua Tree National Park — Otherworldly Rocks and Starry Skies

• Distance/Travel Time: About 130 miles (2.5–3 hours via I-10/CA-62). You’ll need a car to explore the park.
• Why Visit: Joshua Tree’s high-desert landscapes feel surreal—gnarled Joshua trees, jumbo boulders, and dark night skies. It’s a quick escape for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
• Top Things to Do:
  • Hike Hidden Valley, Barker Dam, or Ryan Mountain for sweeping views.
  • Catch sunset at Keys View or Cap Rock.
  • Climb or scramble classic boulders (with proper safety).
  • Stargaze under some of Southern California’s clearest skies.
• Where to Stay: Choose funky cabins and A-frames in Joshua Tree or Yucca Valley, budget motels in Twentynine Palms, or campsites inside the park (reserve early). Consider an America the Beautiful Pass if you visit multiple national parks.
• Best Time to Visit: October–April brings comfortable days (60s–80s°F) and cool nights. Summers hit triple digits—plan sunrise hikes and midday shade. A weekend getaway from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree gives you nature immersion without a long drive. Pack layers for temperature swings and bring more water than you think you’ll need. Additionally, download offline maps since cell service drops inside the park. If you love night skies, plan your visit around a new moon.

San Diego — Beaches, Craft Beer, and Coastal Culture

• Distance/Travel Time: About 120 miles (2–2.5 hours via I-5). The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner runs from LA to San Diego in about 2.5–3 hours with ocean views.
• Why Visit: San Diego blends laid-back beaches, world-class museums, and a booming food-and-beer scene, all connected by efficient transit and ride-shares.
• Top Things to Do:
  • Explore Balboa Park’s gardens and museums, plus the San Diego Zoo.
  • Beach-hop from La Jolla Cove to Pacific Beach and Mission Beach.
  • Walk Old Town for early California history and Mexican cuisine.
  • Sip along the craft beer trail in North Park and Miramar.
• Where to Stay: Stay in the Gaslamp Quarter for nightlife, Little Italy for food, or Mission Bay for family time. Look at city passes (e.g., Go City San Diego) to bundle attractions and save.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round mild weather; spring and fall feel ideal (60s–70s°F). Summer offers long beach days; winter brings fewer crowds. A weekend getaway from Los Angeles to San Diego suits travelers who want museums by day and waterfront dining by night. Moreover, the Surfliner ride keeps the trip stress-free. Consider a trolley day pass for easy mobility, and book a refundable hotel near a trolley stop to minimize Uber costs.

Catalina Island — Car-Free Island Vibes Close to Home

• Distance/Travel Time: Drive 30–45 minutes from LA to Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point; then take the Catalina Express ferry (about 1 hour) to Avalon or Two Harbors.
• Why Visit: Catalina feels worlds away—no cars in Avalon’s core, clear coves, and Mediterranean scenery. Snorkeling, kayaking, and ziplining keep weekends active.
• Top Things to Do:
  • Kayak or snorkel Lover’s Cove and Descanso Beach.
  • Hike the Trans-Catalina Trail segments for sea views and bison sightings.
  • Ride the Zip Line Eco Tour above Descanso Canyon.
  • Stroll Avalon’s waterfront and visit the Catalina Casino (events/historic tours).
• Where to Stay: Beachfront hotels in Avalon for convenience, quaint inns on side streets for value, or cabins/tent cabins in Two Harbors for a rustic feel. Reserve ferry tickets and lodging early, especially in summer weekends.
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for water activities; shoulder seasons bring clear water and lighter crowds. A weekend getaway from Los Angeles to Catalina Island works well when you want a car-free adventure. Pack light since you’ll walk everywhere. Additionally, consider renting snorkel gear on-island to save trunk space. Booking ferry and hotel as a bundle can streamline costs and schedules.

Big Bear Lake — Alpine Air and Four-Season Fun

• Distance/Travel Time: About 100–120 miles (2–3 hours via CA-330/CA-18). Winter trips may take longer due to chain control.
• Why Visit: Big Bear brings mountain air, pine forests, and a central lake for boating, paddling, and fishing, plus ski slopes in winter. It’s a four-season favorite.
• Top Things to Do:
  • Ski/snowboard at Bear Mountain and Snow Summit (winter).
  • Hike Castle Rock Trail or Pine Knot Trail to Grand View Point.
  • Rent kayaks or SUPs on the lake in summer.
  • Stroll The Village for gear shops, breweries, and bakeries.
• Where to Stay: Cozy cabins for groups, slopeside condos for skiers, or budget motels near The Village. Book early for winter weekends; check listings with free cancellation for weather flexibility.
• Best Time to Visit: Winter for snow sports; June–September for lake fun (70s–80s°F days). Shoulder seasons offer quiet trails and lower prices. A weekend getaway from Los Angeles to Big Bear Lake delivers a true change of scenery in under three hours. Moreover, you can tailor your trip: hit the slopes, lounge by a fireplace, or paddle at sunrise. In winter, carry tire chains and watch road conditions; in summer, book lake rentals in advance.

Ojai — Wellness, Wine, and the Famous Pink Moment

• Distance/Travel Time: Roughly 80 miles (1.5–2 hours via US-101/CA-33).
• Why Visit: Ojai charms with Spanish-style arcades, farm-to-table dining, boutique galleries, and the “Pink Moment,” when the Topatopa Mountains blush at sunset.
• Top Things to Do:
  • Hike Shelf Road Trail or Pratt Trail for valley views.
  • Visit the Ojai Certified Farmers’ Market (Sundays).
  • Sip small-batch wines and local olive oil at tasting rooms.
  • Book a spa treatment and browse independent bookstores.
• Where to Stay: Boutique inns and wellness resorts near the arcade, serene B&Bs tucked in the hills, or vacation rentals for groups. Reserve weekend spa appointments ahead.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall feel ideal (70s–80s°F); summers run warm but evenings cool nicely. Winter brings peaceful vibes and good rates. A weekend getaway from Los Angeles to Ojai offers slow travel at its best. You can park once and walk to cafes, galleries, and parks. Additionally, bring a picnic for Libbey Park and linger until sunset to catch the Pink Moment. If you enjoy cycling, rent bikes and tour the Ojai Valley Trail.

Temecula Valley — Vineyards, Balloons, and Old Town Strolls

• Distance/Travel Time: About 85 miles (1.5–2 hours via I-15).
• Why Visit: Temecula pairs rolling vineyards with a charming Old Town. Wine tastings, hot air balloon rides, and relaxed restaurants create an easygoing weekend.
• Top Things to Do:
  • Taste at wineries along Rancho California Road and De Portola Wine Trail.
  • Float over vineyards at sunrise in a hot air balloon.
  • Explore Old Town Temecula’s wooden boardwalks, shops, and speakeasies.
  • Book a guided wine shuttle to avoid driving between tasting rooms.
• Where to Stay: Vineyard resorts for views, Old Town boutique hotels for nightlife, or budget chains for value. Consider weekday-night add-ons to save on tastings.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring wildflowers and fall harvest (70s–80s°F) feel prime. Summers grow hot; start early and enjoy pool breaks midday. A weekend getaway from Los Angeles to Temecula makes wine country refreshingly close. Moreover, you can balance tasting with a balloon ride and a leisurely dinner in Old Town. If you plan multiple tastings, add a shuttle or rideshare budget; it keeps the day fun and safe.

Laguna Beach — Coves, Art, and Coastal Trails

• Distance/Travel Time: Roughly 50 miles (1–1.5 hours via I-5/CA-133 depending on traffic).
• Why Visit: Laguna Beach offers impressive coves, tide pools, a thriving art scene, and scenic bluff-top walks. It’s a coastal classic for swimmers, hikers, and gallery-hoppers.
• Top Things to Do:
  • Explore tide pools at Heisler Park and Shaw’s Cove (watch tides).
  • Hike Laguna Coast Wilderness Park or Crystal Cove’s Moro Canyon.
  • Browse galleries and the Laguna Art Museum; in summer, catch Pageant of the Masters.
  • Snorkel at Crescent Bay or Treasure Island on calm mornings.
• Where to Stay: Oceanfront resorts for views, boutique hotels near Main Beach for walkability, or vacation rentals for families. Book parking-inclusive rates if you drive.
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for water activities; shoulder seasons bring lighter crowds and golden sunsets (60s–70s°F). A weekend getaway from Los Angeles to Laguna Beach keeps logistics light and scenery high. Arrive early for parking near coves, pack reef-safe sunscreen, and bring a light layer for breezy evenings. Additionally, plan around tides to catch the best tide-pooling windows.

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Travel Tips for Weekend Trips from Los Angeles

• Pack light and pre-plan outfits: Choose a carry-on backpack or weekender, neutral layers, and one pair of versatile shoes. That saves trunk space and speeds up hotel check-in.
• Time your departure: Leave before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. on Fridays, and return Sunday morning or late evening to avoid peak traffic.
• Choose the right transportation: Trains work well for Santa Barbara and San Diego; ferries for Catalina; cars for deserts and mountains. Moreover, factor in parking costs and whether you’ll rely on ride-shares.
• Book smart: Reserve hotels with free cancellation and parking included. For popular weekends, set price alerts and book early—then recheck rates midweek.
• Stack passes and bundles: Consider the Go City San Diego pass for attractions, Catalina Express packages, or an America the Beautiful Pass for national parks.

What should I pack for a weekend trip from Los Angeles?

• Take a compact bag, light layers, a reusable water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen), comfy walking shoes, and destination-specific extras: swimsuit and sandals for beaches, a warm jacket and tire chains (winter) for mountains, or a hydration pack and headlamp for desert hikes.

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Best Time to Plan Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

Southern California delivers year-round options, but seasons shape the experience:

• Spring (March–May): Wildflowers bloom in the deserts and hills; coastal highs average 65–72°F; deserts sit around 75–85°F. Ideal for hiking Joshua Tree, Ojai walks, and Catalina snorkeling.
• Summer (June–August): Beach towns shine with long days in the 70s–80s°F. Deserts exceed 100°F; plan sunrise activities in Palm Springs/Joshua Tree. Mountains offer lake days in the 70s–80s°F.
• Fall (September–November): Warm water lingers at the coast (70s°F), vineyards harvest in Temecula, and trails feel less crowded. This window suits most short trips near Los Angeles.
• Winter (December–February): Big Bear draws skiers (20s–40s°F in the mountains). Coasts stay mild (60s°F). Deserts offer prime hiking weather (60s–70s°F days).

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Budget and Planning Advice

For a 2–3 day trip, plan roughly:

• Accommodation: $140–$350 per night (budget motel to boutique/resort; holiday weekends run higher).
• Transportation: Gas $40–$80 round-trip; Pacific Surfliner $35–$60 each way; Catalina ferry about $84+ round-trip per adult.
• Food: $40–$90 per person per day, depending on restaurants vs. picnics.
• Activities: Many hikes are free; national park entry $30 per vehicle (or $80 annual pass); attractions/passes vary ($60–$140).

Tools to streamline planning:

• Navigation/traffic: Google Maps or Waze for live reroutes.
• Transit/route planning: Amtrak app, Rome2Rio for multi-modal options.
• Bookings and deals: Use reputable platforms for flexible hotel rates and set price alerts; check official destination websites for weekend events.

How much does a weekend trip from Los Angeles cost?

• Most travelers spend about $250–$900 per person for 2–3 days, depending on lodging style, transportation, and paid activities. Budget breaks trend toward road trips with picnics; premium escapes add boutique hotels, tastings, and guided experiences.

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Frequently Asked Questions