Here Are 11 Unique Day Trips In Southern California That Are Bucket-List-Worthy
It’s that time of year when we’re all getting a little antsy for a vacation. If you aren’t able to pack your bags and leave for an out-of-town adventure, then take a look at all of these splendid day trips hiding right here in Southern California that will make you feel like you’re on a mini getaway. We’ve put together an incredible list of unique day trips in Southern California that will take you from the perfect blue skies of San Diego to the heated streets of San Bernardino. Get ready to knock a few things off of your Southern California bucket list, friends. There’s nothing like this list of fun and excitement in the heart of California’s most beautiful region!
Did your favorite Southern California experience make the list?
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
One of the best day trips in Southern California is in a place you could explore for an entire weekend and never run out of things to do. At Balboa Park you'll find museums, hiking trails, theatres, a zoo, and even botanical gardens. The list of adventures at this urban park goes on and on, so make sure you take some time to embrace this beautiful destination in the heart of San Diego. More Info
2. California Citrus State Historic Park -- 9400 Dufferin Avenue in Riverside, Ca.
If you love the idea of being surrounded by the smell of citrus, then make sure you take a day trip to California Citrus State Historic Park. Your senses will be dazzled by the smell of citrus trees in every direction. Plus, you'll even get to sample some of this delicious fruit at peak season. More Info
3. Whitewater Preserve -- 9160 Whitewater Canyon Rd in White Water, CA
Who knew this desert oasis existed in Southern California!? You'll be mesmerized by the beauty of this 2,800 acre preserve loaded with hiking trails, streams, ponds, and even mountains. It's the kind of place you want to head to when you're in need of an escape. More Info
When you take a tour of Calico Ghost Town you'll step back in time to the 1800s. This old mining town is well preserved and has been completely restored in order to capture the look and feel of its original condition. More Info
Take in the splendor of Cabrillo National Monument located in San Diego for a perfect day of exploring in the SoCal sun. You'll find hiking trails, an old light house, and some fascinating history that will make you appreciate the setting even more. More Info
6. Vasquez Rocks Natural Area -- 10700 W Escondido Canyon Rd in Agua Dulce, CA 91350
Located in Los Angeles County in the town of Agua Dulce, you'll be mesmerized by the stunning rock formations within this park that have been around for over 25 million years. More Info
If you're seeking a relaxing trip to a mountain town that also offers a lakeside vibe then Crestline is the place to be. Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, this is the perfect getaway for the whole family to enjoy. More Info
8. Keys Creek Lavender Farm -- 12460 Keys Creek Rd in Valley Center, CA
Spending time in a fragrant lavender farm is one of the most refreshing ways to spend a day in SoCal. One of our favorites is Keys Creek Lavender Farm in San Diego County. Take some time strolling the grounds and you will feel completely rejuvenated. More Info
9. Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve-- 39400 Clinton Keith Road in Murrieta, CA
This spectacular preserve in SoCal offers over 9,000 acres of gorgeous land to explore. Whether you love hiking and walking trails, scenic picnic areas or vernal pools, this is an epic spot that offers a little something for everyone. More Info
Sometimes you just need to head to a peaceful, charming and quaint side of SoCal and get away from the city. Oak Glen Village is the perfect escape for a day trip in SoCal's beautiful farm country in a cozy little village where you'll find local shops, boutiques and diners. More Info
11. The Pacific Surfliner -- San Luis Obispo to San Diego
How about a day trip via train? Amtrak offers a scenic route from San Luis Obispo to San Diego on the relaxing Pacific Surfliner. Take the entire route, or just select your favorite cities and explore each location on foot. It's a splendid way to see SoCal with a new set of eyes. More Info
Do you have any favorite spots on this list of unique day trips in Southern California? Or do you adore them all and have a hard time picking a favorite?
If you love taking SoCal adventures as much as I do, then you might want to check out this road trip that covers some of Southern California’s most charming small towns.
Address: San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Address: 9400 Dufferin Ave, Riverside, CA 92503, USA
Address: Whitewater Preserve, 9160 Whitewater Canyon Rd, Whitewater, CA 92282, USA
Address: Calico Ghost Town, 36600 Ghost Town Rd, Yermo, CA 92398, USA
Address: San Diego, CA 92106, USA
Address: Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park, 10700 Escondido Canyon Rd, Agua Dulce, CA 91350, USA
Address: Crestline, CA, USA
Address: 12460 Keys Creek Rd, Valley Center, CA 92082, USA
Address: 39400 Clinton Keith Rd, Murrieta, CA 92562, USA
Address: Oak Glen, CA 92399, USA
Address: Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Outdoor Adventures In SoCal
September 26, 2020
Meghan Kraft
What are the best waterfall hikes in Southern California?
If you’re game for a good hike, then there’s a whole heap of Southern California waterfalls that you need to visit. From epic hikes into the mountains to low-key beachfront falls, there’s nothing like the region’s beautiful natural wonders. Escondido Falls is a 150-foot waterfall that’s dusted in moss and accessible way of a 3.8 mile roundtrip hike. Head to Hermit Falls for a shorter hike at 2.6 miles, and though the waterfall is smaller you’ll find that the area is less crowded. La Jolla Canyon Falls is deep in the heart of Malibu, accessible by car and a short hike into the Santa Monica Mountains.
What are the most beautiful lakes in Southern California?
When most folks think of beautiful lakes in California they’re quickly reminded of Lake Shasta and Lake Tahoe in the northern reaches of the state. Still, there are numerous lakes and reservoirs in the southern region as well. Head to Big Bear Lake, the most popular vacation spot amidst southern folks, or perhaps Lake Havasu, shared by Arizona and California in tandem. Silverwood Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains is also a great day trip for families who are looking for respite from the city.
What are the best beaches in Southern California?
Southern California is truly known for its beaches, the miles of coastline that stretches from one end of the region to the next. Some of the best beaches in Southern California include the famed El Matador Beach in Malibu, most commonly used for movie and photoshoots, and the Santa Monica Beach with its ever-famous pier. Zuma Beach can be found right next to Point Dume, a great surfing spot, and Coronado Beach in the San Diego area is perfect for families and young folks alike.
Address: San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Address: 9400 Dufferin Ave, Riverside, CA 92503, USA
Address: Whitewater Preserve, 9160 Whitewater Canyon Rd, Whitewater, CA 92282, USA
Address: Calico Ghost Town, 36600 Ghost Town Rd, Yermo, CA 92398, USA
Address: San Diego, CA 92106, USA
Address: Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park, 10700 Escondido Canyon Rd, Agua Dulce, CA 91350, USA
Address: Crestline, CA, USA
Address: 12460 Keys Creek Rd, Valley Center, CA 92082, USA
Address: 39400 Clinton Keith Rd, Murrieta, CA 92562, USA
Address: Oak Glen, CA 92399, USA
Address: Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
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