BEST DAY TRIPS FROM LOS ANGELES

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LA might be 500 sq miles of vast landscapes and endless amounts of activities, but even resident Angelenos need days to get the heck outta town and switch up the scenery. Fortunately, there is no shortage of super fun and easy day trips to take outside of Los Angeles. Whether you’re looking for something relaxing, something adventurous, something for the kids, or something romantic, you’re in luck because California kinda has it all. Buckle up babes, we’re goin’ on a road trip – here are a few of my personal favorite day trips to take and the best ways to experience each dreamy destination:

NOTE: as you can imagine, things change almost every day while we continue to work our way through these uncertain times. I am not here to encourage you to travel if you don’t feel comfortable or safe, while many destinations are “open” the ultimate decision on protecting your safety relies solely on you. Much of the content in this post is meant to inspire future travels, but if you plan on experiencing any type of travel please be aware that some activities/places might not be open during this time. Make sure to check-in directly when it comes to any experience you’d like to take part in, and please do what you need to do to keep yourself and others safe!

1-2 HOUR DRIVES

LAGUNA BEACH

Laguna is exactly what you’d hope “the OC” would look and feel like. When I was going to college in Orange, Laguna was my go-to destination if I was in need of some salt air and a little escape from reality. Whether you’re 20 minutes, an hour, or from far far away, Laguna always feels like the perfect quintessentially Southern Califonia treat.

Good For: choosing your own adventure / kids & families / romance / relaxation / art

Helllooooo heart of OC! Arguably my personal favorite beach in Orange County to boot. So obviously – go to the beach
Laguna is an artsy town – stop into some art galleries or be on the lookout for one of their many art shows and festivals
rent an electric bike and cruise along the beach and through town
Go for a whale-watching cruise
visit the Pacific Marine Mammal Center to learn more about the wildlife they rehabilitate
Do some serious shopping and meandering in the downtown area – Thalia Surf, Vertigo Home, Pearl St General, Sourced, and so many more
Visit Crystal Cove for hiking, biking, fishing, surfing and more
Have some of the best tacos in SoCal at Taco Loco
Dine al fresco on the waterfront at Driftwood Kitchen, The Deck, or at the historic Las Brisas restaurant (a favorite of mine), open since 1938
If you’d like to stay the night, consider The Ranch at Laguna Beach ($$$), La Casa Del Camino ($$), or the Montage Laguna Beach ($$$)

OJAI

Ojai is no doubt a little odd, a little granola, and a little funky but there is simply no denying the mystical and magnetic effect this town has on visitors. You enter Ojai and it’s like taking a long deep exhale, the energy here in just something you have to experience to understand. Much of this town is centered around wellness, but there’s plenty to keep every personality occupied – even the hippie haters.

Good for: wellness / adventure / romance / relaxation / girls trip

drop in at Beacon Coffee for a caffeine kick
do some light walking and shopping in the downtown Ojai area at Fig Curated Living, Cattywampus Crafts, Modern Folk, The Lennon Chest, or In the Field
snag lunch al fresco at The Nest – don’t skip the brownie
have a whole spa day at the Ojai Valley Inn
take in a deep and relaxing inhale at the Ojai Lavender Farms
or if you need some adventure, visit Los Padres National Forest or take your bike for a ride on the Ojai Bike Trail (it goes to the ocean! but heads up, the ride back is uphill)
visit the coolest bookstore in existence: Barts Books (all outside!)
wine and snacks in the cutest outdoor space at Tipple & Ramble, and/or a lovely dinner at Ojai Harvest Moon
If you’re planning on staying, be sure to consider: Ojai Valley Inn (pretty big resort, one of my favorites on earth, $$$), The Lavender Inn (B&B, $$), Caravan Outpost (airstream trailers, $$), Ojai Rancho Inn (hip little lodge, $$)

READ MORE: GETAWAY GUIDE TO OJAI

SANTA BARBARA

I always say that if I could live anywhere in California, besides Los Angeles, it would be Santa Barbara. It has this vivacious yet slow beach town juxtaposition that I have always been drawn to. It’s funky but chic, eclectic yet sophisticated, and always a good time.

Good For: foodies / wine / relaxation / kids & families / beach vibes

Santa Barbara is crazy easy to get to by train if you’d prefer another method of transportation (especially if you’re planning on having wine!)
take the Santa Barbara Scenic Drive
grab coffee at Dune or Handlebar
take a leisurely walk and peruse the shops along State Street
visit the Santa Barabara Zoo – it’s small but mighty and one of my favs
visit Sterns Warf, maybe even rent a bike nearby and go for a ride!
try to make a reservation to visit Lotusland – a private and stunning botanical garden
visit the Santa Barbara Mission for a little history lesson
wine tasting in the Funk Zone – Kunin, Melville, The Valley Project, Margerum, and Potek are a few of my favorites (check out the Urban Wine Trail)
For a fancy lunch or dinner, visit Tydes at the Four Seasons Biltmore – beachfront, absurdly beautiful, fishtank bar (true story)
For the best seafood in town visit Brophy Brothers on the Marina (my favorite restaurant in California, period)
Other good spots for foodies: The Lark, Lucky Penny, Barbareño, Jane, and La Super Rica Taqueria
In Santa Barbara, you can kinda do it all: water sports, sailing, fishing, whale watching, biking, hiking, kayaking, horseback riding – you name it
If you’re planning on staying, consider: Four Seasons Biltmore ($$$), Belmond El Encanto ($$$), The Canary ($$), Hotel Californian ($$)

READ MORE: GETAWAY GUIDE TO SANTA BARBARA

CATALINA

I visited Catalina for the first time last year and then proceeded to visit 4 more times within 6 months thereafter. If that’s not a testament to what a joy visiting Catalina is, then I don’t know what is. Even though Catalina is about an hour boat ride from the port of Long Beach, once you step off that boat it’s like you’ve entered another world, even though funny enough – Catalina is actually technically in Los Angeles County! But fear not, it feels nothing like Los Angeles, quite the opposite in fact as you’re almost forced to “disconnect” and embrace island life – fortunately, it’s easy to do here.

Good for: adventure / big groups / relaxation / kids & families

take an early boat in (9-10 am) on the Catalina Express
grab some coffee at Catalina Island Brew House or breakfast at Original Jacks Country Kitchen
take a little leisurely walk around Avalon or grab a golf cart and do a self-guided tour
take to the water and do some snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, floating – what have you (Descanso Beach Club has rentals)
chill beachside at the Descanso Beach Club – you can rent a cabana/lounge chairs or you can swing by for a meal and cocktails
go ziplining! It’s one of the main attractions on the island
go for a hike – it’s what most people actually come here for, and there are so many places on the island to explore
take a tour: the casino tour is my favorite, but they also offer Jeep and bus tours of the Island, or again you can rent a golf cart and do your own thing
don’t miss the opportunity to see the wild Bison on the island
if you like to imbibe, Catalina is the island for you (and me,) be sure to check out Luau Larry’s, Marlin Club, Descanso Beach Club, and the Sandtrap
Favorite places to dine in Avalon are: The Lobster Trap (casual), Bluewater Grill (great patio on the water), Avalon Grille (a little fancier but so good), and Descanso Beach Club (it doesn’t get any more “vacation” than Descanso)
If you’re planning on. staying, consider: Pavillion Hotel (always my #1 choice, Hotel Metropole, Hotel Atwater (new, dying to check it out), Zane Grey Pueblo Hotel (another new one I’m dying to check out)

READ MORE: GETAWAY GUIDE TO CATALINA ISLAND

NEWPORT BEACH / BALBOA ISLAND

Newport is one of the wealthiest cities in Orange County and it shows, but that doesn’t mean its lacking charm – can’t really beat the shopping, the restaurants, the beaches, or the pretend house hunting. There’s a lot going on in this big little beach town and plenty to keep you entertained for a whole day – or a few!

Balboa is a manmade Island in Newport that is the epitome of a good old fashioned American summer. On Balboa time slows down, the sun shines, and all you have to worry about is deciding where to get your frozen banana for the day.

Good for: beach vibes / kids & families / shopping / relaxation

have a quiet beach day in Corona Del Mar
do some major shopping at Fashion Island
dine by the dock at Bluewater Grill, The Cannery, Woody’s Warf, Back Bay Bistro, Nobu, or Newport Dunes
take a walk and do some shopping around Lido Village – stop in for breakfast/brunch/lunch/dinner at Mayor’s Table at Lido House
have a little spa day at Lido House
rent a Duffy boat and do a little cruising
have a whole afternoon on Balboa Island – parking on the island can be tough but there’s a ferry you can pick up from the Balboa Peninsula
on Balboa: grab a famous frozen banana from either Sugar N Spice or Dad’s Donut & Bakery shop
on Balboa: take a walk around the 1.6-mile boardwalk. And pick out your dream house
on Balboa: if you’ve got kids with you, head to the Balboa Fun Zone for a Ferris wheel and arcade games
If you’re planning on staying for the night, consider: Lido House ($$), Resort at Pelican Hill ($$$), Balboa Bay Resort ($$)

PALM SPRINGS

If you live in LA, you’ve been to Palm Springs. There’s just no way around it. It’s LA’s happy place, where we go to relax, treat ourselves. And revive our spirits while mostly baking in the sun. You can day trip to Palm Springs easily but it’s highly recommended that you at least stay for a night so you can enjoy one of the best things about visiting Palm Springs – swimming in your hotel pool.

Good for: relaxing / romantic getaway / girls trip / foodies / wellness

coffee shops in Palm Springs are not my favorite, but the breakfast restaurants are some of the best – look into Farm or Cheeky’s – both located downtown – or Kings Highway at the Ace Hotel
walk and shop in the downtown Palm Springs area
visit the Palm Springs Air Museum
take a Modern Tour where you can see some of the coolest Mid Century Modern homes in the area
visit Cabot’s Pueblo Museum
visit The Living Desert Zoo & botanical garden
have a spa day – Two Bunch Palms, The Parker, JW Marriott, Miramonte, La Quinta
if you’ve got kids, either book a stay at the Omni Rancho Las Palmas or book a ResortPass for Splashotopia
have a beautiful meal al fresco at Birba, Copley’s, SO.PA, El Jefe. Or Chi Chi (full list of restaurants with outdoor seating)
if you’re not planning on staying but still want a day at the pool, check out the full list of hotels in Greater Palm Springs offering day passes through ResortPass
if you’re staying for the night, which I highly recommend, there are too many options to list – head to my full blog post here to help you decide!
there are also a ton of home rentals in Greater Palm Springs as well, peruse some at Vacation Palm Springs or on VRBO

READ MORE: GETAWAY GUIDE TO PALM SPRINGS

JOSHUA TREE

Joshua Tree is the magical and hip new place to escape from city life and experience a little desert peace under the stars. Much of Joshua Tree is made up of private homes to rent. But it’s definitely a destination for a day of outdoor adventures and exploring as well. Pack some hard booch, a camera, some hiking boots, and let’s hit the road.

Good for: adventure / outdoor activities / desert life / wellness / relaxation / girls or friends trip

Joshua Tree National Park is perfect for hiking, biking, and climbing
watch climbers at Hidden Valley Campground, or do a little climbing yourself at Jumbo Rocks or Joshua Tree Rock Climbing School
on your way in or out stop at Cabazon and take a picture with the Cabazon dinosaurs
do some major cacti perusing and purchasing at one of many roadside marts along 29 Palms Hwy, or at Cactus Mart (very IG worthy)
visit Cholla Cactus Garden and Ocotillo Pass – great for pics
drop in at Pappy and Harriet’s for food and awesome live music
experience a sound bath at Integration
dine at Crossroads Cafe, Joshua Tree Coffee Company, The Natural Sisters Cafe, Pie for the People
do some thrifting and antiquing at Hoof and the Horn, Pioneer Crossing, Trailer Trash, and BKB Ceramics
explore Pioneertown – a wild west town built in the 1940s for a movie set
don’t forget to look up at night – Joshua Tree might be one the state’s best places to stargaze
If you’re planning on staying for the night, I would without a doubt rent a house – with a pool perhaps – and if you don’t already have a property in mind (some are very popular on Instagram), look into the homes available on VRBO

2-3 HOUR DRIVES

BIG BEAR

Big Bear is California mountain territory known for its ski hills and splendid “pow”. So clearly Big Bear is much more of a Winter destination than a summer destination. But where there’s a lake, there are water sports and people hangin’ dockside. Regardless of the time of year Big Bear is a great place to escape for some beautiful mountainous scenery and a little fresh air.

Good For: adventure / snow sports / water sports / hiking / camping / kids & families

have breakfast at the Grizzly Manor Cafe and/or grab coffee at Big Bear Roasting Co
go for a hike on the Castle Rock Trail (moderate, dog friendly)
visit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo – a rehabilitation center for wild animals
have a lakeside lunch at The Pines Lakefront
winter: visit Snow Summit, Snow Valley Resort, or Big Bear Mountain for skiing/snowboarding etc
summer: rent a kayak, pontoon, or paddleboard and get out on Big Bear Lake
do the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain – open all year
and take a tour of the Big Bear Solar Observatory
take a tour of the Big Bear Valley Historical Museum
go bowling at Bowling Barn (temp closed)
go for dinner, drinks and Karaoke at Murray’s Saloon (currently doing takeout)
grab a beer at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company
If you’re planning on staying, consider renting a vacation home rental, it’s kinda the way to go up here. Or camp if that’s your thing!

LAKE ARROWHEAD

Much like Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead has been a favorite mountainous getaway for Southern Californians for years. It’s a bit smaller than Big Bear (and used to actually be called Little Bear Lake). But has the same type of vibe: snowy in the winter, sunny in the summer. Perfect for enjoying the lake. It’s great for families and spending some time in that beautiful alpine atmosphere. Note that Lake Arrowhead is a private lake. So if you have a boat (etc), you won’t be able to bring it on the lake. You’ll have to rent or make friends.

Good for: lake/water activities / adventure / relaxing / kids & family

visit Lake Arrowhead Village – est 1920 during the winter they host cute Christmas time activities, and during the summer it’s live music and more. If you have kids be sure to visit Lolipop Park.
visit the local community of Blue Jay – Jensen’s Finest Foods, Bill’s Villager Coffee Shop. Dogwood Tavern, Blue Jay Cinemas, and other restaurants and shops
get in the lake! But since Lake Arrowhead is private, if you don’t have a boat or a hookup you can go for a tour on the Lake Arrowhead Queen that will take you around the lake. Otherwise, if you just want to get in the water you can visit Lake Gregory about 20 mins from Lake Arrowhead and there you can get a day pass to hang by the lake (there’s even a blow-up waterpark)
go for an adventure at SkyPark at Santa’s Village
do a private adventure (ATV tour, jeep tour, bike tour) via Enjoy The Mountain
dining in the village: Belgian Waffle Works, Papagayos (Mexican), Lake Arrowhead Pizza, BIN 189 (fancier), The Grill at Antler’s Inn (cute, fancier), LouEddie’s Pizza, Hortensia (Mexican, patio seating) Lakefront Taproom, or Grapevine wine bar
if you’re planning on staying, ideal hotel options include Saddleback Inn and Lake Arrowhead Resort & spa
if you’re camping, there’s either the North Shore Campground. Or the Dogwood Campground
if you’d rather rent a vacation home rental, there are plenty of those here as well!

CARLSBAD / OCEANSIDE

In my opinion, beach life doesn’t get any better than in Carlsbad/Oceanside. It’s “chill”, nice but not stuffy, absolutely beautiful. Not overcrowded, and the people who live here are awesome. If I had to pick a beach town in California to move to one of these would definitely be it!

Good For: beach vibes / craft brews / relaxation / kids & families

Carlsbad and Oceanside are both great for bike riding along the ocean, so either bring your bikes or rents some
Both beachy cities are well known for their craft brewery game, consider visiting: Rouleur Brewing (Carlsbad), Burgeon Beer Co (Carlsbad), Culver Beer Co (Carlsbad), Oceanside Brewing, Bagby Beer Co (Oceanside), Northern Pine Brewing (Oceanside)
if you’re visiting in the spring be sure to visit the famous Carlsbad flower fields – do it for the ‘gram
If you’ve got kiddos with you, then you’re likely heading to Carlsbad to visit Legoland! (theme park currently closed, the hotel is open – check back for updates)
Maybe the most important activity: hit the beach! Carlsbad State Beach, South Ponto, South Carlsbad State Beach, Buccaneer Beach (Oceanside)
do a drive-by North San Diego County beach tour: start in Oceanside, then hit Carlsbad, then Encinitas, then Del Mar, and finally La Jolla
Visit the beautiful Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park
Visit one of three lagoons located in Carlsbad: Batiquitos Lagoon (the largest – great for walking, biking), Buena Vista Lagoon (egological preserve great for bird watching). And Auga Hedionda Lagoon (the smallest, but good for boating, water skiing, windsurfing, etc)
Visit the Surf Museum in Oceanside
Check out the adorable and pink Roberts Cottages in Oceanside (do it for the ‘gram)
Dining in Carlsbad: Campfire, Bluewater Grill, Beach Plum Kitchen, Jeune et Jollie, The Compass
Dining in Oceanside: Dija Mara (named the best restaurant in San Diego by Eater SD), Wrench & Rodent, Hello Betty Seafood, Mission Ave Bar & Grill, Stratford at the Harbor, Miramar Fish Tacos & Beer, Petit Madeline Bakery & Bistro
Staying in Carlsbad (it’s your best option, as there are more options): Omni Resort La Costa ($$$), Park Hyatt Aviara ($$), Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort ($$)

SOLVANG

Solvang is a “little slice of Denmark in Southern California” and while the latter is arguable (it’s more Central Coast IMO) the former is dead on. And it’s one of those places you have to see to believe. This place is quite literally like entering another country, and while it seems a bit goofy from first glance, Solvang might actually be the quaintest and cutest town in California. It’s also buzzing with new development as it has become quite popular amongst day-trippers in the last few years. So there is going to be a lot of new things to experience if you haven’t been in a while (like myself!)

Good for: foodies / wine lovers / leisure / kids and families / Scandinavian culture fanatics

start the morning with breakfast at an authentic Danish restaurant or bakery: Mortensen’s, Olsen’s, Paula’s Pancake House
Grab a coffee at Good Seed Coffee
take a little jaunt around the downtown – take in the architecture, the windmills, the flowers, and transport yourself to Denmark
grab lunch at Ramen Kotori, peasants FEAST, or Copenhagen Sausage Garden
take a bike through country roads or hike through the Los Padres National Forest
visit some large feathered friends at OstrichLand USA
visit the Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum
head around the Santa Ynez Valley for some wine tasting: Cambria, Brave & Maden Estate Wine, Sunstone Vineyards, Spear, Melville, Peake Ranch, Pence
check out the cute little downtown of Los Olivos (restaurants, wine tasting rooms, shops) and drop in for a tasting at Liquid Farm, Dragonette, Taste of Santa Rita Hills, Storm, or Story of Soil
have a nice dinner at First & Oak, Hitching Post 2, River Grill at Alisal Ranch, SY Kitchen, or The Gathering Table at Ballard Inn
go full vacation mode and grab a tiki drink at High Roller Tiki Lounge
If you’re planning on staying in town, consider: Vinland Hotel ($$), The Winston ($$), Alisal Guest Ranch ($$$)

[FOR MORE: “THE GETAWAY GUIDE TO: SOLVANG“]

LOS ALAMOS

It’s funky, it’s charming, it’s seriously up and coming… it’s Los Alamos! Slowly but surely this cute little old Western looking town is becoming a total foodie haven and a favorite destination amongst Angelenos – it’s not fondly referred to as “little LA” for nothing. Every time I swing through Los Alamos – usually on my way to SLO – there is something fun and new to discover, eat, drink, and experience. If you’re looking for the truly “off the beaten road” day trip (and you love food and beer/wine) Los Alamos is a must. (It’s about 20 minutes from Solvang too, you could easily hit both!)

Good for: foodies / wine lovers / leisure / Sideways lovers / girls trip

pick up breakfast and delicious baked goods from Bob’s Well Bread
do some antiquing at Sisters Gifts & Home or The Depot
if you’re wandering around the main drag (Bell St) drop into Casa Dumetz, Municipal Winemakers, or LoFi wines for some fun – and delicious – wine tasting
if you’d rather grab a beer, drop by Babi’s Beer Emporium – maybe even grab some dim sum from Dimsama while you’re there!
pretend you’re in an old Western – or entering West World – and visit the 1880 Union Saloon
visit Bodega for lifestyle inspiration – featuring a beer/wine garden, greenhouse, shop, bocce ball, and an all-around gorgeous space fit for an Angeleno
venture out and do some more wine tasting: Martian Ranch & Vineyard, Foxen Winery, Presqu’ile Winery
grab a nice dinner at Pico (inside the Los Alamos General Store), Bell’s (French), Full of Life Flatbread (pizza), or Norman at Skyview Hotel
if you’re sticking around for the night, consider: Skyview Motel ($$), The Alamo Motel ($$), or Bodega House ($$)

[FOR MORE: “THE GETAWAY GUIDE TO: LOS ALAMOS“]

3-5 HOURS

SAN LUIS OBISPO

San Luis Obispo – or “SLO” as it’s more commonly referred to as – has always been one of my absolute favorite local getaways. SLO is one of those city’s that has a way of making a relatively big town feel so small, sweet, and quaint. Lett’s just say SLO runs at a slower pace – no pun intended. If you could use a little escape from reality with no major fancy fluffs and frills – fantastic wine, amazing food, outdoor activities, and friendly folks included – take that trip up the Historic Highway 1 and make a stop in San Luis Obispo.

Good for: wine lovers / history / adventure / leisure / kids & families

grab a coffee at Scout Cofee – the best and cutest in town
or do breakfast at the Copper Cafe – located inside the famous Madonna Inn
even if you don’t do breakfast, you have to at least visit the Madonna Inn. Walk around, have a drink, or even stay for a steak dinner
do some walking and shopping in Downtown SLO – there’s always plenty to do and see around here
drop in the Mission San Luis Obispo De Tolosa and learn about the history of the mission
cruise around the Cal Poly campus
if you’re jonesing for something active, hike Bishop’s Peak
lunch: Firestone Grill (mandatory!!! The best Tri-Tip sandwich you’ll ever have), or grab a quick sandwich at High Street Deli or Gus’s Grocery
wine tasting: Chamisal, Tolosa, Biddle Ranch, Malene, and more (check my blog post for the full list)
catch a movie at the Sunset drive-in
grab a nice dinner in town at Flour House (my favorite, Neapolitan pizza & pasta), Buona Tavola (classic Italian, great patio), Granada Bistro (French bistro, great patio), or Ciopinot (seafood – closed for the moment)
do before or after dinner drinks at Sidecar Cocktail Co, Hotel Granada, or The Carrisa (big patio)
if you’re staying for the night, consider checking in at: The Madonna Inn ($$), The Kinney ($), The Apple Farm ($$), Hotel San Luis Obispo ($$$)

READ MORE: GETAWAY GUIDE TO SAN LUIS OBISPO

PASO ROBLES

Located about 30 minutes north of San Luis Obispo you’ll find the premiere central coast wine locale: Paso Robles. You’re pretty much coming here to do one thing and that is to taste wine, so if you’re not big into the wine scene, I’d just do something fun and easy like San Luis Obispo. But for my fellow wine drinkers… here’s the 411.

Good for: wine / relaxation / romance

grab a coffee in downtown Paso Robles at Spearhead Coffee
soak and relax in some luxurious natural hot springs or book spa services at River Oaks, or for a more rustic experience try Franklin Hot Springs
visit the Mission San Miguel Archangel
take a look at what life looked at in the 19th and 20th centuries by visiting the Paso Robles Pioneer Museum
treat yourself to a cookie at Brown Butter Cookie Company (downtown)
visit the boutique shops in Downtown Paso around the square
do an olive oil tasting: Alta Cresta Olive Orchard, Pasolivo Ranch, Kiler Ridge
take the kiddos (or your inner kiddos) to Ravine Waterpark (currently closed, check back for updates)
more obviously, go wine tasting: Justin, Eberle, Niner, Tablas Creek, and Daou are my favorites
visit Tin City (an industrial collective of tasting rooms and craft breweries) and sample all kinds of local craft beers and ciders
visit local distilleries Krobār Distillery or Re:Find Distillery to try some locally made spirits
dine at: Fish Gaucho, Thomas Hill Organics, La Cosecha, The Hatch Rotisserie, Il Cortile, The Restaurant at Justin
If you’re staying in town, consider: The Just Inn (one of the coolest hotels I’ve ever stayed at, at Justin Vineyards, $$$), Paso Robles Inn ($$), Hotel Cheval ($$), Allegretto Resort ($$)

MORRO BAY / CAYUCOS / CAMBRIA

These three gorgeous beach towns are listed together because you could easily visit them all in one day. Cambria is the more quaint, cozy, “wealthier” beach town. Morro Bay is a bit more laid back, rustic, and Cayucos is just a fun and funky little beach town. So, why visit one when you can visit all three? Take your road trip to the next level and check out these beloved Central Coast beach towns!

Good for: (chill and chilly) rustic beach vibes / couples / adventure / kids and families

start south in Morro Bay right off Hwy 1, and first and foremost, check out that giant rock! (don’t forget a jacket it’s usually foggy)
grab breakfast at Shine Cafe
check out the local wildlife – there’s a good chance you’ll see some sea lions, otters, harbor seals, and fun birds
take a walk along the Embarcadero – be sure to drop in the Shell Shop, the Morro Bay Maritime Museum, and Carousel for saltwater taffy
eat some seafood at Dutchman’s Seafood or Tognazzini’s Dockside
head north to the quirky ultra chill beach town, Cayucos
in Cayucos, you surf. Or watch other folks surf – you can rent gear and other beach stuff from Good Clean Fun
take yourself on a self-guided tour of the local murals
head to the pier, snap a pic for the ‘gram
do some antique shopping – there’s a lot of beachy type gems to be found here – be sure to drop into Remember When
Get the real “authentic Cayucos experience” at Schooners or Old Cayucos Tavern & Card Room
have a nice meal at The Grill at Cass House
head 20 miles north to Cambria
go for a ride on a Clydesdale horse at Covell Ranch (how is this a thing! I am DYING to do this!)
visit the adorable and cozy downtown area of Cambria
go for a walk along Moonstone beach
go see the Elephant Seal Rookery at Piedras Blancas (just up the road from Cambria)
if you’re visiting Cambria, you can’t miss taking a tour of the famed Hearst Castle (currently closed, check back for updates)
treat yourself to a slice of Olallieberry Pie from Linn’s of Cambria
have a nice meal at Robin’s, Sea Chest Restaurant & Oyster Bar, or Madeline’s
if you’re planning on staying the night in the area, consider: Cambria Beach Lodge ($$), Fogcatcher Inn ($$), or rent an awesome spot on VRBO

BIG SUR

Arguably one of California’s most beautiful and scenic places, Big Sur has got to be on every Californian’s bucket list. Big Sur is a bit of a hike from LA but that doesn’t mean it’s not doable. Bring your jackets, your camera, your maps. And a full tank of gas because we’re goin’ off the grid!

Good for: adventure / photography / exploring / romantic getaway

visit, and snap all the pics of the famous Bixby Creek Bridge
check out the gorgeous McWay Falls – take the short paved walk from inside the State Park to get the best view (might be closed, check before you go)
go for a beautiful hike through Julia Pfieffer Burns State Park (check to make sure the trails are open and check for updates)
go for a walk along the coast – download the map of the region on maps.me so you can find marked trails offline – which comes in handy around here!
take the famous 17-mile drive from Carmel or Monterey
check out the wildlife at the Point Lobos Natural State Reserve
visit Garrapata State Park and Calla Lily Valley – where there are wild Calla Lilies! (late winter/spring)
for a casual meal: Big Sur Smokehouse, Big Sur Taphouse, Big Sur Bakery, Big Sur Roadhouse
for a fancy meal: Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn or The Sur House at Ventana
if you’re staying the night, consider: Ventana Big Sur (they just added kinda bougie campgrounds that are WAY more affordable than the hotel rooms, and you still have access to all the amenities! $$$-$$$$), Post Ranch Inn ($$$$), Tickle Pink Inn ($$$) or rent a VRBO nearby

SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK

I am not much of an outdoorsy girl but visiting the Sequoia National Park had me questioning everything I thought I knew about myself. This has to be one of the most incredible places on earth to see and experience. And it’s only 3-4 hours away from Los Angeles in the southern Sierra Nevada east of the San Joaquin Valley.

Good for: adventure / camping / hiking / photography

stretch your legs and go for a hike! The Sequoia National Park has a hike for all levels, and fortunately, all of them involve getting to see the natural monsters that are the Sequoia trees
another option and area for exploring would be Kings Canyon National Park
make sure to pay a visit to the largest tree in the WORLD, General Sherman
head over to the mountain next door to find Mineral King Valley for some more hiking options (a bit less busy, more rustic)
setup a tent and do some camping at Atwell Mill (right before Silver City) or at Cold Springs (higher up, a little more remote) – neither are open at the moment, check back for updates
if you’re backpacking overnight in Sequoia National Forest, Kings Canyon, or Mineral King you need a permit
if you’d rather have some proper lodging (ME), definitely check out staying at Silver City Mountain Resort. (cute, rustic little cabins $$)
if you’re in Mineral King Valley be sure to at least drop by Silver City Mountain Resort for a meal and a slice of pie. Everything they make is to die for.

SAN DIEGO

When it comes to San Diego there is a lot of ground to cover. We’ve already discussed exploring North San Diego County. Now we’ll drive a little farther south and explore San Diego proper. San Diego has something for everyone. Beaches, beers, shopping, dining, adventure, wild animals – you name it.

Good for: everything and everyone.

grab brunch or lunch in Little Italy at Morning Glory or Farmers Table
take a stroll around the Harbor, check out some of the Navy boats
visit Old Town San Diego for a look back in time
hit up old school and totally cool vintage theme park Belmont Park in Mission Beach
hit the beach! Visit either Coronado, Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, or La Jolla Cove
go for a hike through the Torrey Pines Reserve
do the thing you really came here for: The San Diego Zoo – there is no other zoo in the world quite like it, it’s a total bucket list activity!
find yourself a famous California Burrito (pssst, they put french fries in the burrito) – my favorites are from Lolita’s, Pokez, or La Puerta
spend some time on Coronado Island – it’s my favorite part of San Diego. Have lunch or dinner at Leroy’s, visit the famous Hotel Del Cornado, walk along the beach, have a ball
visit the beautiful Balboa Park for San Diego’s best museums
grab a beer at a local brewery – it’s what San Diego is known for! Thorn Brewing, Modern Times (several locations), Societe Brewing, Amplified Ale Works, Lost Abbey, Coronado Brewing, and so many more
go for tiki drinks at one of the best Tiki Bars in existence, False Idol (temporarily closed)
go out for a nice dinner at George’s at the Cove (La Jolla), The Marine Room (La Jolla – temporarily closed, sister restaurant The Shores is open), The Fishery (Pacific Beach), Sushi Ota (Pacific Beach), Wine Vault Bistro (Mission Hills), Herb & Wood (American, Little Italy), Kettner Exchange (American, Little Italy), Born and Raised (steakhouse, Little Italy), Buona Forchetta (Italian, Little Italy), or Ironside (seafood, Little Italy)
if you’re staying the night, consider: Hotel Del Coronado ($$$), The US Grant ($$$), The Guild Hotel ($$), Pendry ($$), Tower23 ($$), Fairmont Grand Del Mar (farther out but worth it, $$$)

HEADING MORE NORTH?

Check out my GETAWAY GUIDE TO: NAPA VALLEY

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