10 Best Day Trips from Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a vibrant city that is frequently referred to as the “City of Dreams” featuring some amazing opportunities to discover. Nevertheless, there are plenty of fascinating places with thrilling activities that are just waiting to be found and will make you fall for the beauty of Los Angeles. Discover the best tours in Los Angeles offering an amazing range of experiences to satisfy your wanderlust soul, from serene nature hikes to exhilarating adventures.

Santa Barbara is a beautiful spot,  where tourists can browse through some cool shops at State Street and Stearns Wharf, located close by and are well-known as two of the most fascinating day trips from Los Angeles to see the Pacific. Don’t forget to visit Butterfly Beach, a serene location near the Four Season Biltmore Hotel, which allows visitors to unwind and witness breathtaking sunsets. Moreover, plan a visit to Santa Barbara and Urban Wine Trail to gulp on some wine tasting after refueling at La Super Rica Taqueria.

Plan a day trip from LA to Temecula, which is a perfect spot for wine tasting. Explore the Temecula Valley Museum on a historical walking tour through a quaint historic town. In addition to being a country, Temecula is home to more than 30 wineries. One must try out the Wilson Creek and the Monte De Oro Winery which occupies over 70 acres of space and offers a great variety of wines. Don’t miss out on a fun ride in a hot air balloon which is another popular tourist activity, the Magical Adventure Balloon Rides specializes in such rides.

Balboa Island is known as a unique man-made island and a well-liked tourist site in Los Angeles. Pick your favorites from the Doughnut & Bakery and Sugar N Spice to taste delectable chocolate-coated frozen delicacies. Explore the 1.6-mile boardwalk around the island, which meanders past residences and streets. Take a nature stroll along Marine Avenue, the island’s main street, and explore the Balboa Island Historical Society & Museum to discover more about the historical past, and browse through numerous galleries, stores, and eateries. Furthermore, tourists can also try some fun recreational activities including kayaking, parasailing, and paddle boarding by the serene lake.

Coronado must be included in the list of Los Angeles trips, being well-known as the best beach in town. The smooth and grainy beach sand along with ideal weather, makes it a perfect spot to take nature strolls. The island is easily accessible via ferry from San Diego and has a sense of a resort town with all the much-needed facilities. Delve in some tasty frozen dessert treats at MooTime Creamery or grab a quick meal at a chic coffee shop, Clayton’s Coffee.

Renowned as one of the most aesthetically pleasing locations in town, Big Bear Mountain is home to various ski resorts in LA. Tourists must try out paddle boarding or hire a Kayak to explore the serenity of the sea and visit the Big Bear Solar Observatory, with its white dome the observatory offers some stunning solar displays. Additionally, it's an ideal space to go for a mountain biking experience featuring bike rentals such as Bear Valley Bikes and tourists may also take up the trek to hike through some of the most beautiful sights.

Savor the amazing LA excursion, including a visit to Solvang, where you can view rural houses, a replica of Copehagn’s Round Tower, and wooden windmills. Various Christmas stores, Danish bakeries, and cute Mermaid-themed souvenirs are available here. Tourists may find some eye-catching and popular post-World War II buildings showcasing past architectural designs. In addition, the lively Downtown district of Solvang is home to numerous attractions, such as Solvang Brewing Company, Paula’s Pancake House, and the stunning Elveroj Museum.

Travel to San Juan Capistrano by Amtrak route, which is tucked away within a few blocks from the Hidden House Coffee, a chic coffee spot. Discover the Mission San Juan Capistrano which is considered as the most exquisite link in the mission system, established back in 1776. Zoomars is the ideal location for animal lovers interested in engaging with some furry pals. Children of all ages are warmly welcome at this kid-friendly petting zoo.

Plan a trip to Bombay Beach, located closer to the Salton Sea, a great exploration for those who love to explore abandoned, off-the-beaten routes. The vibrant seaside town was a well-liked vacation destination in the 1950s and 1960s, but now there are only some beautiful remains to treasure. Don’t forget to explore the breathtaking Niland, which gained popularity because of Salvation Mountain, a great folk art monument constructed with straws and paints, created by famous artist Leonard Knight.

Laguna Beach is a prime destination for tanning, offering serene and less crowded spots like Treasure Island, which features several tidal pools. For camping enthusiasts, Crystal Cove provides a perfect getaway. Meanwhile, Victoria Beach stands out with its remote charm and castle-like architectural design. Visitors can also indulge in local cuisine at nearby eateries or explore art galleries and unique shops. A stroll down Peppertree Lane is a delightful experience, where you can savor cozy treats like waffle cones and freshly baked goodies.

Take a day trip to Ojai, featuring a distinct and laid-back vibe. Visitors would love to have a filling breakfast treat at Bonnie Lu or stop by the Farmer Cook for an amazing authentic dinner. Indulge in the tasty delicacies while you explore the Los Padres National Forest in town, which provides several chances to swim alongside Sespe Creek. Bookaholics may browse through Bart’s books for some cool reads, while nature enthusiasts may hike through Meditation Mount to take in the breathtaking views. One must try out the Ojai Rancho & Ojai Beverage to have a hearty dinner and post-dinner drinks.