Escape the City: 10 Perfect Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

Adventures | California | Destinations | Los Angeles

Skyblue Overland may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article.

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles with these top 10 weekend getaways. From serene beaches to scenic mountains, discover the best places to stay, dine, and explore in Southern California.

Introduction

Los Angeles, with its bustling city life and endless entertainment options, is a fantastic place to live. However, sometimes even Angelenos need a break from the fast pace of the city. Luckily, Southern California is home to a plethora of incredible weekend getaways, each offering a unique escape from urban life. Whether you’re looking for sandy beaches, scenic mountains, charming towns, or desert adventures, there’s a perfect destination just a short drive away.

From the serene vineyards of Santa Ynez Valley to the rugged beauty of Joshua Tree, and from the luxurious retreats of Santa Barbara to the artistic allure of Laguna Beach, these getaways promise relaxation, adventure, and rejuvenation. Each destination is brimming with unique attractions, top-notch accommodations, and delectable dining options, ensuring that your weekend escape is nothing short of spectacular.

In this guide, we explore the ten best weekend getaways from Los Angeles, providing you with detailed insights into the best places to stay, must-visit restaurants, and the unique reasons each destination is worth your visit. Pack your bags and get ready to discover the hidden gems and renowned retreats that make Southern California one of the best regions for quick, memorable escapes.

Read our complete California travel guide here.

1. Santa Barbara

Best Places to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Bacara offers luxury with stunning ocean views, while the Kimpton Canary Hotel provides a boutique experience downtown.

Best Restaurants: For fine dining, visit The Lark for its farm-to-table cuisine. For seafood lovers, Brophy Bros. is a must for its fresh catches and harbor views.

Why Visit: Santa Barbara, often referred to as the American Riviera, combines Mediterranean charm with Californian flair. With its beautiful beaches, upscale shopping on State Street, and the historic Mission Santa Barbara, there’s something for everyone. Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the nearby Santa Ynez Valley, while outdoor lovers can explore the many hiking trails in the Santa Ynez Mountains.

Views of Santa Barbara, California.

2. Palm Springs

Best Places to Stay: The Parker Palm Springs offers a chic, retro vibe with luxurious amenities. The Ace Hotel & Swim Club is perfect for those seeking a hip, relaxed atmosphere.

Best Restaurants: Enjoy modern American cuisine at Workshop Kitchen + Bar or savor the elegant French dishes at Le Vallauris.

Why Visit: Palm Springs is a desert oasis known for its mid-century modern architecture, hot springs, and vibrant arts scene. Relax by the pool, explore the Coachella Valley Preserve, or take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking views of the desert landscape. The city’s annual film festival and modernism week attract visitors from around the world.

Palm Springs, California

3. Laguna Beach

Best Places to Stay: Montage Laguna Beach offers oceanfront luxury with impeccable service, while Casa Loma Beach Hotel provides a cozy, beachside retreat.

Best Restaurants: For an unforgettable meal, visit Studio at Montage for its exquisite cuisine and ocean views. Nick’s Laguna Beach is a local favorite for its casual yet refined dishes.

Why Visit: Known for its stunning coastal views and thriving arts community, Laguna Beach is a haven for artists and beachgoers alike. Explore the many art galleries, visit the Laguna Art Museum, or relax on one of the pristine beaches. The annual Sawdust Art Festival and Pageant of the Masters are must-see events that celebrate the town’s creative spirit.

Main Beach Park in Laguna Beach, California.

4. Big Bear Lake

Best Places to Stay: The Lodge at Big Bear Lake provides comfortable accommodations with a rustic charm. For a more secluded experience, try the Castle Wood Cottages.

Best Restaurants: The Pines Lakefront offers fine dining with panoramic lake views, while Big Bear Lake Brewing Company serves up hearty pub fare and craft beers.

Why Visit: Big Bear Lake is a year-round destination offering outdoor adventures in a stunning mountain setting. In winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Bear Mountain. In summer, the lake is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Hiking and biking trails abound, making it an ideal getaway for nature enthusiasts.

See our travel guide to Big Bear Lake, California!

Big Bear Lake, California

5. Ojai

Best Places to Stay: The Ojai Valley Inn provides luxury accommodations with a focus on wellness and relaxation. The Emerald Iguana Inn offers a more intimate, boutique experience.

Best Restaurants: Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at The Farmer and The Cook.

Why Visit: Ojai is known for its tranquil atmosphere, wellness retreats, and beautiful scenery. Visit the Ojai Olive Oil Company for a tasting, explore the boutiques and art galleries in the charming downtown area, or take a hike in the Los Padres National Forest. The annual Ojai Music Festival is a popular event that draw visitors from near and far.

Ojai, California

6. San Diego

Best Places to Stay: The Hotel del Coronado offers historic charm on the beach, while The Pendry San Diego provides a modern, luxurious experience in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Best Restaurants: Enjoy fresh seafood at Ironside Fish & Oyster or indulge in fine dining at Addison, San Diego‘s only Michelin-starred restaurant.

Why Visit: San Diego boasts beautiful beaches, a bustling downtown, and attractions like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and SeaWorld. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter, or take a day trip to nearby La Jolla for its picturesque coastline and upscale shopping. With its mild climate and diverse attractions, San Diego is perfect for a weekend escape.

Pacific Beach in San Diego, California.

7. Joshua Tree

Best Places to Stay: The Joshua Tree Inn offers cozy accommodations with a unique, artistic flair. For a more immersive experience, try staying at AutoCamp Joshua Tree.

Best Restaurants: Crossroads Café serves up delicious, locally sourced dishes, while Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace offers live music and hearty fare in a rustic setting.

Why Visit: Joshua Tree is a haven for nature lovers and stargazers. The national park’s unique desert landscape is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and photography. The nearby town of Joshua Tree has a quirky, artistic vibe, with shops and galleries showcasing local talent. At night, the clear skies offer some of the best stargazing in Southern California.

See our Adventurer’s Guide to Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park

8. Santa Ynez Valley

Best Places to Stay: The Fess Parker Wine Country Inn provides elegant accommodations in the heart of wine country. For a more intimate stay, try The Ballard Inn.

Best Restaurants: Enjoy gourmet cuisine at Nella Kitchen or savor Italian dishes at S.Y. Kitchen.

Why Visit: The Santa Ynez Valley is a wine lover’s paradise, with numerous vineyards and tasting rooms to explore. The charming towns of Los Olivos, Solvang, and Santa Ynez offer unique shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Take a wine tour, enjoy a scenic drive, or relax at one of the many spas and wellness centers in the area.

Santa Ynez Mountains, California

9. Catalina Island

Best Places to Stay: The Pavilion Hotel offers beachfront luxury with modern amenities. For a more secluded experience, try the Mt Ada bed and breakfast.

Best Restaurants: Bluewater Grill serves fresh seafood with stunning ocean views, while Avalon Grille offers contemporary American cuisine in a chic setting.

Why Visit: Just a short ferry ride from Los Angeles, Catalina Island offers a unique island escape. Enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, or zip-lining through the island’s beautiful landscapes. Explore the charming town of Avalon, with its shops, restaurants, and historic sites. The island’s relaxed pace and natural beauty make it a perfect weekend getaway.

Catalina Island Harbor during Summer

10. Malibu

Best Places to Stay: The Malibu Beach Inn offers luxurious beachfront accommodations with stunning ocean views. For a more laid-back experience, try The Surfrider Malibu.

Best Restaurants: Nobu Malibu is a must for its world-class sushi and oceanfront dining. For a more casual meal, try Malibu Farm on the pier for fresh, farm-to-table dishes.

Why Visit: Malibu is synonymous with beautiful beaches and celebrity homes. Relax on the sands of Zuma Beach or surf the famous waves at Surfrider Beach. Explore the hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains, or visit the Getty Villa for its impressive art collection. With its stunning coastline and upscale amenities, Malibu is an ideal weekend retreat.

Sunset over Santa Monica Bay

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking the tranquility of nature, the charm of small towns, or the luxury of beachfront resorts, Southern California offers a diverse array of weekend getaways perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Each destination, from the scenic vineyards of Santa Ynez Valley to the artistic vibe of Laguna Beach, provides a unique backdrop for relaxation, adventure, and rejuvenation.

These getaways not only offer a change of scenery but also present an opportunity to explore new activities, savor different cuisines, and immerse yourself in various cultures and landscapes. Whether it’s the historical charm of Santa Barbara, the desert beauty of Palm Springs, or the serene shores of Catalina Island, there’s a perfect escape just a short drive away.

By taking advantage of these nearby treasures, you can return to Los Angeles refreshed and inspired, with new experiences and memories to cherish. So, the next time you feel the need to step away from city life, consider one of these ten fantastic destinations for your weekend adventure. The best of Southern California is waiting to be explored, offering countless opportunities to unwind, explore, and enjoy.