Los Angeles, the City of Angels, isn't just about Hollywood glamour. It's a gateway to breathtaking coastal drives, majestic mountains, and charming desert towns. This guide unveils 17 unforgettable road trips from LA, catering to diverse tastes and adventure levels. Whether you crave scenic coastal cruises, thrilling mountain climbs, or tranquil desert escapes, we've got you covered. Prepare to explore the diverse landscapes that make Southern California truly iconic.
Coastal Cruisers: Sun, Sand, and Stunning Views
These road trips offer the quintessential California coastal experience, with stunning ocean views and charming beach towns.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) Classic: Malibu to Santa Barbara
This iconic drive is a must-do. The Pacific Coast Highway stretches along the breathtaking California coastline, offering dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and iconic surf spots. Start in Malibu, enjoying the celebrity homes and pristine beaches. Continue north, stopping at charming towns like Santa Monica, Ventura, and Oxnard, before reaching the elegant city of Santa Barbara. This trip can easily be a day trip or extended into a weekend getaway.
- Highlights: El Matador State Beach, Channel Islands Harbor, Santa Barbara Mission
- Distance: Approximately 90 miles (allow 2-3 hours driving time, excluding stops)
2. Big Sur Extravaganza: A Longer Coastal Journey
For a more extended adventure, venture further north along the PCH into Big Sur. This world-renowned stretch of highway boasts towering redwood forests, dramatic cliffs plunging into the Pacific, and breathtaking vistas around every bend. This is a journey for those seeking awe-inspiring scenery and a true escape from city life. Be prepared for winding roads and limited services in certain areas.
- Highlights: Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, McWay Falls
- Distance: Approximately 150 miles (allow 4-6 hours driving time, excluding stops). Plan overnight stays for a more enjoyable experience.
3. Malibu Beach Hop: Sun, Surf, and Celebrity Sightings
This shorter trip focuses on the beauty of Malibu's coastline. Explore various beaches, from the iconic Zuma Beach to the secluded El Matador State Beach. Keep an eye out for celebrity homes tucked away in the hills! This is a perfect day trip for sun worshippers and those seeking a relaxed coastal experience.
- Highlights: Zuma Beach, El Matador State Beach, Paradise Cove
- Distance: Approximately 20 miles (allow 1-2 hours driving time, excluding stops)
Mountain Majesty: Hiking, Views, and Cool Air
Escape the city heat and explore the stunning mountain ranges surrounding Los Angeles.
4. Angeles Crest Highway: A High-Altitude Adventure
This scenic byway winds through the Angeles National Forest, offering panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains. The road is known for its winding curves and breathtaking overlooks, making it a thrilling drive for experienced drivers. Several hiking trails are accessible along the route.
- Highlights: Newcomb's Ranch, Mount Wilson Observatory, numerous hiking trails
- Distance: Approximately 66 miles (allow 2-3 hours driving time, excluding stops)
5. Mount Baldy Ascent: Hiking and Scenic Overlooks
Mount Baldy, the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains, offers stunning views and challenging hikes. The drive itself is scenic, and the summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. Be prepared for varying weather conditions at higher altitudes.
- Highlights: Mount Baldy Village, various hiking trails to the summit, scenic overlooks
- Distance: Approximately 30 miles (allow 1-2 hours driving time, excluding stops, plus hiking time)
6. Highway 39: A Twisting Road to Idyllwild
Highway 39 offers a challenging but rewarding drive through the San Jacinto Mountains, leading to the charming mountain town of Idyllwild. This route is known for its steep inclines and tight turns, but the stunning views make it worth the effort.
- Highlights: Idyllwild town, hiking trails, stunning mountain scenery
- Distance: Approximately 50 miles (allow 2-3 hours driving time, excluding stops)
Desert Delights: Canyons, Palm Trees, and Starry Nights
7. Joshua Tree National Park Escape: Otherworldly Landscapes
A day trip or weekend getaway to Joshua Tree National Park is a must for nature lovers. The park features unique desert landscapes, iconic Joshua trees, and opportunities for hiking and rock climbing. Remember to bring plenty of water!
- Highlights: Cholla Cactus Garden, Skull Rock, Hidden Valley Nature Trail
- Distance: Approximately 130 miles (allow 2-3 hours driving time, excluding park exploration)
8. Palm Springs Oasis: Mid-Century Modern and Desert Relaxation
Palm Springs offers a glamorous escape to the desert. Explore the city's mid-century modern architecture, relax by the pool, or ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for stunning mountain views.
- Highlights: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Moorten Botanical Garden, mid-century modern architecture
- Distance: Approximately 110 miles (allow 2 hours driving time)
Unique Experiences: Beyond the Usual
9. Route 66 Retro Road Trip: A Slice of Americana
Take a nostalgic journey along a portion of the historic Route 66. Experience classic diners, roadside attractions, and a glimpse into Americana's past. This trip can be customized to your preferred length and can combine elements of other road trips.
- Highlights: Various roadside attractions depending on the segment chosen.
- Distance: Variable, depending on the chosen segment.
10. Hollywood Hills Scenic Drive: Celebrity Homes and City Views
This drive offers a glimpse into the glamorous world of Hollywood. Cruise through the winding roads of the Hollywood Hills, admiring the stunning city views and spotting celebrity homes.
- Highlights: Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Sign viewpoints, Mulholland Drive
- Distance: Variable, depending on the route.
11. Santa Monica Pier & Beach Fun: A Classic LA Experience
This short trip offers a quintessential LA experience. Enjoy the iconic Santa Monica Pier, relax on the beach, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
- Highlights: Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica State Beach, Third Street Promenade
- Distance: A short drive from many parts of LA
12. Channel Islands National Park Boat Trip: Wildlife and Island Exploration
Take a boat trip to the Channel Islands National Park for a unique experience. Explore the islands' diverse wildlife, including whales, dolphins, and seabirds. This requires planning and booking a boat tour.
- Highlights: Island hiking, wildlife viewing, kayaking
- Distance: Boat trip from Ventura or Oxnard
Beyond LA County: Expanding Your Horizons
These road trips take you outside of Los Angeles County, offering diverse landscapes and experiences.
13. Temecula Wine Country: Rolling Hills and Vineyards
Escape to Temecula Valley Wine Country for a day of wine tasting and exploring the vineyards. Enjoy the scenic rolling hills and charming wineries.
- Highlights: Various wineries, wine tasting, vineyard tours
- Distance: Approximately 60 miles (allow 1-1.5 hours driving time)
14. Ojai Valley Retreat: Charming Town and Artistic Vibe
Ojai offers a relaxing getaway with a charming town square, art galleries, and stunning natural beauty. Enjoy hiking, exploring the shops, and soaking up the laid-back atmosphere.
- Highlights: Ojai Plaza, hiking trails, art galleries
- Distance: Approximately 80 miles (allow 1.5-2 hours driving time)
15. Death Valley National Park Adventure (Summer Caution!): Extreme Landscapes
This is an ambitious road trip, best suited for experienced drivers and those comfortable with extreme heat (avoid summer). Death Valley offers otherworldly landscapes, vast salt flats, and dramatic canyons. Be prepared for extreme temperatures and limited services.
- Highlights: Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, Dante's View
- Distance: Approximately 120-150 miles (allow several hours driving time, plus significant time for park exploration)
16. Las Vegas Extravaganza: Lights, Casinos, and Entertainment
A longer road trip, Las Vegas offers a stark contrast to LA's laid-back vibe. Experience the bright lights, casinos, and entertainment of the entertainment capital of the world.
- Highlights: Las Vegas Strip, various shows, casinos
- Distance: Approximately 270 miles (allow 4-5 hours driving time)
17. Julian Apple Pie Trip: Mountain Charm and Delicious Treats
Enjoy a scenic drive to the mountain town of Julian, known for its apple pies. Explore the historic town, sample the local pies, and enjoy the cooler mountain air.
- Highlights: Julian Pie Company, historic buildings, hiking trails
- Distance: Approximately 65 miles (allow 1-1.5 hours driving time)
This guide offers a diverse range of road trip options, catering to different interests and travel styles. Remember to plan your trips, check road conditions, and pack accordingly. Enjoy the open road and the stunning beauty of Southern California!
