Posted in Southern California
June 01, 2017
The 12 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Southern California
The summer season is the perfect time for mini getaways and fun outdoor adventures in Southern California. If you have a case of wanderlust and you’re looking for some new spots in SoCal to explore, then you’ll want to take a look at this compilation of our favorite spaces and places to visit in Southern California. From remote getaways to splendid outdoor hikes, you’ll want to add all of these destinations to your SoCal bucket list.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate

For those who seek out the most scenic parts of SoCal, this spectacular spot won't disappoint. Tucked inside San Diego, Sunset Cliffs is a marvelous destination for breathtaking views, glorious walking trails, and picture-perfect snapshots.

Visiting the mountain town of Idyllwild is always a magical experience. You'll be enthralled with the artistic vibe of this charming small town that comes alive every year for the annual Jazz in the Pines summer festival. No matter what time of year you go, you'll find a thriving community filled with great local shops and restaurants that will all make you feel right at home.

Briar Rose Winery is located in a fairytale setting in beautiful Temecula Valley. Perfect for a Sunday drive, this picturesque winery is surrounded by serene walking paths and stunning hillside views. Sip and sample wine for the afternoon and enjoy a leisurely picnic on the grounds of this charming SoCal hideaway.

Exploring Southern California's coastal cities is just one of the many delights of living in this part of the state. For a real treat, take a leisurely drive to the town of Carpinteria and spend the day walking along scenic trails, shopping along the quaint main street, and dining at some tasty local restaurants.


Nothing beats a day out in one of SoCal's lush green forests...especially on a hot summer day. Tucked inside Los Angeles National Forest, Chantry Flat Recreation Area is a stunning destination for some of the most picturesque hikes imaginable.

This quaint village tucked along Ventura Harbor is just one of the many places in SoCal where you'll want to spend a leisurely afternoon. Whether you want to stroll along the harbor to enjoy great shopping and dining or you want to soak up the SoCal sun while playing in the water, this is one place that everyone should experience at least once.


Although you may want to spend more than just one day here, Balboa Park is the one place in SoCal that is an absolute must-see for those who live here and for those who are just vacationing. From magnificent gardens, peaceful walking paths, stunning architecture and world-renowned galleries, this is a breathtaking urban park that is almost too good to be true.

Taking a tour of this lovely citrus park in SoCal will completely rejuvenate you. Imagine being surrounded by the beauty of fruit trees in every direction and smelling the sweet scent of citrus all around you. Take a guided "Taste and Tour" of the citrus grove and snack on samples of citrus throughout the park.


Whether you are taking a leisurely stroll through the scenic gardens or you're taking a ride on the Enchanted Railroad, a day trip to Descanso Gardens is nothing but picturesque bliss.

The Eagle Mining Company will take you on a tour of a lifetime through an actual SoCal gold mine that will take you back in time to what life was like during the California gold rush. Located in the town of Julian, this 1-hour gold mine tour is a great way to spend part of your day in this charming SoCal town.

Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, the town of Wrightwood is a magnificent spot for exploring on a day trip. This quaint town is only 90-minutes from Los Angeles, so it's nice and easy to reach from most parts of SoCal. Once there, you'll find magnificent hikes and local charm that will make you appreciate all that SoCal has to offer.

For a refreshing splash in the water on a hot summer day, there's nothing that beats a nice cool dip in the water from a SoCal waterfall. After a strenuous and challenging hike in San Diego County, this beautiful waterfall at Cedar Creek Falls will be a welcome surprise.
Don’t these SoCal destinations all look quite splendid? If you’re looking for another memorable spot to add to your Southern California summer bucket list, you’ll want to check out this divine getaway that everyone should experience at least once.