The 10 Best Summer Day Trips from Los Angeles | 2025 — The Hollywood Home The Hollywood Home

June 24th, 2025 by thehollywoodhome

The 10 Best Summer Day Trips from Los Angeles | 2025

Events, Los Angeles, Wine, Wine & Dine 2025 Day trips Summer No Comments

Los Angeles is ideally situated for incredible day trips that offer everything from beaches to mountains, wine to desert, art to small-town charm. Whether you’re craving cool coastal breezes, golden hikes through pine-scented trails, or a slow afternoon sipping wine under the sun, LA is your launchpad for a perfect summer escape. Each of these destinations is within roughly a two-hour drive. Just far enough and off the beaten path to feel like a real getaway, but close enough to make it home in time for a good night’s sleep at home.

Beach + Coastal Charm

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1. Laguna Beach

A coastal art haven where natural beauty and creative spirit meet. Spend the day exploring the area’s stunning beaches—Shaw’s Cove for snorkeling, Victoria Beach for its iconic pirate tower, and Thousand Steps Beach for a scenic workout that pays off with crystal-clear surf and dramatic cliffs.

Stroll through Heisler Park for panoramic ocean views and tide pools, or visit during summer for the one-of-a-kind Pageant of the Masters, where live performers recreate classic works of art.

When hunger hits, grab brunch with a view at Las Brisas, enjoy fresh seafood and handcrafted cocktails at Driftwood Kitchen, or cozy up for dinner at Nick’s Laguna Beach, a local favorite known for its elevated comfort food.

Distance: ~55 miles (1.5 hours)
Why go: Hidden coves, tide pools, art galleries, and coastal hikes. Heisler Park is a gem, and the cliffside views are unbeatable.
Best for: Art lovers, couples, ocean daydreamers.

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2. Catalina Island (via ferry)

Just an hour from LA by ferry, Catalina Island feels like a Mediterranean escape with its rugged hills, turquoise coves, and relaxed coastal pace. Spend the day snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Lover’s Cove, sunbathing at the palm-lined Descanso Beach, or hiking out to the secluded sands of Little Harbor on the island’s quieter west side.

Rent a golf cart to explore Avalon’s charming streets, zipline through canyon ridges, or visit the Catalina Island Museum for a taste of island history and Hollywood lore.

For food, sip cocktails and dine seaside at Descanso Beach Club, enjoy fresh seafood at the breezy Bluewater Avalon, or grab island-style tacos and margaritas at the colorful Luau Larry’s—just be careful with their signature Wiki Wacker cocktail!

Distance: Ferry from Long Beach/San Pedro: ~1 hour
Why go: A postcard-perfect island escape. Golf carts instead of cars, snorkeling in crystal-clear water, and harborfront dining in Avalon.
Best for: Families, romantic getaways, anyone craving a Mediterranean vibe without a passport.

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3. Malibu Wine Country + Canyons

With the Pacific Coast Highway recently reopened after LA’s devastating January wildfires, there’s no better time to take a drive just up the coast from LA to support local businesses while catching some rays. Start your day with a scenic drive along Mulholland Highway or Latigo Canyon Road, winding through the Santa Monica Mountains. Stretch your legs on the Solstice Canyon Trail, where you’ll find a shaded waterfall hike and the ruins of a mid-century ranch house nestled into the hillside.

Wine lovers can make a full tasting tour of the region: sip on Rhône varietals at Cornell Winery, enjoy a flight under the oaks at Malibu Wines & Beer Garden (formerly Malibu Wines), or head up to the hills for a private tasting experience at Cielo Farms, known for its stunning vineyard views and Tuscan-style setting.

When it’s time to eat, grab a wood-fired brunch at the rustic-chic Old Place, a former post office turned steakhouse with serious cowboy soul. For seafood with ocean views, Geoffrey’s Malibu delivers on both flavor and ambiance, while Malibu Farm Café on the pier offers fresh, organic dishes with breezy coastal charm.

No trip to Malibu is complete without a little beach time—choose El Matador for its dramatic sea caves and photo ops, Zuma Beach for classic wide-open shoreline and surf, or Point Dume for blufftop hikes and dolphin sightings. No matter if you’re sipping syrah in the canyons or watching the waves crash below the cliffs, Malibu gives you the best of both worlds—wine country romance and beachside bliss, all in a single unforgettable day.

Distance: ~40–50 miles (1–1.5 hours)
Why go: Wind through canyon roads, sip wine at a hilltop vineyard, then watch the sun dip into the Pacific from El Matador Beach.
Best for: Casual wine lovers, LA locals playing tourist, small groups.

Nature + Adventure

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4. Joshua Tree National Park

Otherworldly and unforgettable, Joshua Tree is where rugged desert landscapes meet cosmic energy and creative spirit. In the summer, it’s best to arrive early—ideally at sunrise—to catch the magic without the midday heat. Start your day inside Joshua Tree National Park, where you can explore surreal rock formations at Hidden Valley, gaze out over the desert expanse from Keys View, and walk among the twisted, spiky trees that gave the park its name. For art lovers, a stop at Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum offers an unforgettable experience of large-scale assemblage works scattered across the sand.

When it’s time to refuel, head to Crossroads Café for hearty breakfast fare and locally roasted coffee, or cool off with a refreshing spritz and fine food at La Copine Kitchen in Yucca Valley. For something with a little edge, grab a table at Pappy & Harriet’s in nearby Pioneertown—part roadhouse, part live music mecca, and 100% desert icon.

Whether you’re stargazing, scrambling over ancient boulders, or just soaking in the silence, Joshua Tree is a place that slows you down and opens you up. And while it’s undeniably hot in the summer, planning smart—early arrival, plenty of water, and shaded breaks—makes for an unforgettable desert day trip.

Distance: ~130 miles (2–2.5 hours)
Why go: Otherworldly landscapes, boulder-strewn trails, and those iconic twisted trees.
Best for: Hikers, photographers, desert mystics, and indie rock fans.

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5. Mount Baldy

If you’re craving crisp mountain air and a serious break from the LA heat, Mount Baldy (officially Mount San Antonio) is your quick alpine fix—just an hour and a half from the city, but worlds away in atmosphere. This high-elevation hideaway offers sweeping views, evergreen forests, and trails for every level of hiker. Try the Baldy Bowl Trail for a challenging summit adventure, the Icehouse Canyon Trail for creekside scenery and shady switchbacks, or the scenic Devil’s Backbone Trail, a ridge-line hike with jaw-dropping views and a bit of an adrenaline rush.

For those who prefer a more relaxed day, take the Mount Baldy Ski Lift (open in summer for hikers and sightseers) up to Top of the Notch Restaurant, where you can enjoy a cold drink and lunch with panoramic mountain vistas. Back in the village, grab a cozy breakfast at The Village Grind, known for its coffee and pastries, or unwind après-hike with a pint and hearty meal at Mt. Baldy Lodge, a rustic spot that feels like an old-school mountain retreat.

Mount Baldy delivers fresh mountain air, classic trailhead vibes, and a satisfying sense of escape—all within striking distance of the city.

Distance: ~50 miles (1.5 hours)
Why go: A cool alpine escape. Hike to the summit, ride the ski lift, or snowshoe in winter.
Best for: Nature lovers, fitness folks, those wanting crisp air and pine trees.

Wine + Food Escapes

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6. Ojai

Tucked into a sun-soaked valley framed by the Topatopa Mountains, Ojai is a bohemian haven that blends wellness, art, and small-town charm. Spend your day browsing open-air shelves at Bart’s Books, the legendary outdoor bookstore, or take a meditative stroll through the Ojai Meadows Preserve, a lush wetland habitat just outside town.

For more active adventure, hike the Shelf Road Trail for panoramic valley views, or explore Rose Valley Falls, a shaded, waterfall-fed hike just a short drive from the city center.

When it’s time to eat, savor wood-fired seafood and seasonal California fare at Rory’s Place, indulge in Southeast Asian–inspired pastries and daytime plates at The Duchess, or toast the afternoon with wine and small bites at the cozy and stylish Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room. Be sure to stick around for the famous “pink moment”, when the mountains blush with sunset—an Ojai ritual best enjoyed with a glass of rosé in hand.

Distance: ~80 miles (1.5–2 hours)
Why go: Farm-to-table restaurants, boutique shops, local wines, and a deeply relaxed energy.
Best for: Wellness seekers, boho types, girls’ trips.

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7. Temecula Wine Country

Just under two hours southeast of LA, Temecula Wine Country offers rolling vineyards, rustic charm, and some of Southern California’s best wines. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just looking to sip and savor, the region’s blend of boutique wineries and laid-back tasting rooms makes for an ideal summer day trip.

Start with a tasting at Wilson Creek Winery, famous for its almond champagne and sprawling grounds perfect for picnics. Then head to Ponte Winery, where you can wander the olive groves and enjoy Mediterranean-inspired small plates. Finish your vineyard tour at Callaway Vineyard & Winery, where the hilltop views over the valley are as impressive as the Merlot.

Hungry? Enjoy farm-fresh dishes at The Goat and Vine, known for its creative pizzas and vibrant atmosphere. For something cozy and elegant, book a table at The Restaurant at Ponte, offering refined farm-to-table cuisine. If you’re craving casual comfort, 1909 in Old Town Temecula pairs gourmet burgers with local craft brews in a laid-back setting.

Beyond wine, take a stroll through Old Town Temecula with its charming storefronts, antique shops, and summer events like farmers’ markets and live music. Whether you’re clinking glasses under the sun or wandering historic streets, Temecula is a warm, welcoming retreat just a short drive from the city.

Distance: ~85 miles (1.5–2 hours)
Why go: Sweeping vineyard views, tasting rooms galore, and hot air balloons at dawn.
Best for: Wine tasting groups, couples, bridal parties.

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8. Santa Barbara

Often called the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara is where coastal beauty meets Spanish Colonial charm and laid-back sophistication. Start your day with a stroll along the Santa Barbara Waterfront, then head out onto Stearns Wharf, the oldest working wooden wharf in California, for sweeping ocean views, local wine tasting, and maybe even a sea lion sighting.

From there, wander up to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, a historic landmark with lush sunken gardens and panoramic city views from its iconic clock tower. Art lovers should make time for the Funk Zone, a lively district packed with tasting rooms, galleries, and creative energy, or browse the palm-lined State Street Promenade for boutique finds and sunny people-watching.

When it’s time to eat, brunch at Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach pairs ocean breezes with standout seafood, while The Lark in the Funk Zone serves up elegant, locally sourced fare in a buzzing, beautifully designed space. For something casual but unforgettable, grab tacos at La Super-Rica Taqueria, a humble spot once championed by Julia Child. Whether you’re watching the sun sink behind East Beach or sipping wine on a shaded patio, Santa Barbara always feels like the perfect escape

Distance: ~95 miles (2 hours)
Why go: Beach meets wine country. Explore the Funk Zone, tour the Mission, or dine along State Street.
Best for: Romantic day dates, urban explorers, luxury-leaning travelers.

Culture + Small-Town Vibes

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9. Solvang

Step into a slice of Denmark just a couple hours from LA in the charming town of Solvang. Known for its windmills, half-timbered buildings, and old-world charm, this quaint village offers a delightful mix of history, shopping, and small-town hospitality. Wander through the streets to visit the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art, which dives into Solvang’s Danish heritage, or explore the whimsical Hans Christian Andersen Museum for a touch of fairy-tale magic. For outdoor lovers, a stroll through the nearby Nojoqui Falls Park rewards with a peaceful waterfall and shaded trails.

Food-wise, start your day with fresh Danish pastries and coffee at Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery, indulge in hearty farm-to-table fare at Paula’s Pancake House, or enjoy classic American comfort with a twist at The Solvang Brewing Company, where local brews meet tasty pub eats.

Distance: ~130 miles (2.5 hours)
Why go: A storybook Danish town in wine country with windmills, bakeries, and tasting rooms.
Best for: Families, history buffs, folks with a sweet tooth.

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10. Palm Springs

An oasis of midcentury cool, desert beauty, and poolside relaxation, Palm Springs makes for an effortlessly stylish summer day trip. Start your visit at the Palm Springs Art Museum, where modernist architecture meets an impressive collection of contemporary and Native American art. Design lovers can book a guided tour of Frey House II, the iconic hillside glass-and-steel home by architect Albert Frey, or cruise neighborhoods like Twin Palms and Vista Las Palmas for a self-guided look at classic midcentury gems.

To escape the heat, ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to cooler mountain elevations with breathtaking views. When it’s time to refuel, grab brunch at the retro-chic Cheeky’s, savor farm-to-table plates and desert ambiance at Workshop Kitchen + Bar, or catch an al fresco film screening and a grab a cocktail or two at Casa Cody.

Whether you’re pool-hopping, treasure-hunting for vintage finds, or basking in that cinematic desert light, Palm Springs always delivers a day to remember.

Distance: ~107 miles (2 hours)
Why go: Poolside glamour, midcentury architecture, vintage shops, and desert vibes.
Best for: Design lovers, retro style fans, pool hoppers.

Happy Summer!

Jacqueline Tager | DRE# 1476997
jacqueline.tager@sothebyshomes.com | (323) 697-3040
Sotheby’s International Realty – Los Feliz Brokerage
1801 N Hillhurst Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90027