Explore Southern California's Best Waterfalls And Wineries On This Multi-Day Road Trip
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Danielle Schwartz
Author
Southern California is the perfect place to take a road trip. While there might be traffic, if you check the reports before you go, you won’t have to spend too much time in the car and can instead focus on the endlessly fun experiences our region offers. On this road trip, you’ll strike just the right balance of being in nature and the city as you experience many mesmerizing waterfalls and taste wine right at its source.
The multi-day itinerary features lots of natural water features and marvelous wineries, but don’t worry — we’ve put together some great places to stay so you can travel safely and space your driving out comfortably on this road trip in Southern California. Explore beautiful waterfalls and enjoy your new favorite wineries all day before checking into one of the conveniently located Best Western hotels in Southern California. Have an amazing trip!
Penasquitos Creek Falls, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
Peñasquitos Creek Falls is a hidden gem right in the middle of San Diego, and you won’t believe how close it is to the residential areas all around it. It’s easy to find from Carmel Valley or Mira Mesa, and it’s a gorgeous walk. It’s a 2.8-mile-long trail, so it’s perfect for a nice hike in the early afternoon.
Bernardo Winery, 13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, San Diego, CA 92128, USA
Following your excursion to Peñasquitos Creek Waterfall, enjoy a refreshing glass of wine or two at the nearby Bernardo Winery. You’ll only have to drive about 15 minutes to get there. The scenery is a great place to take in the natural desert landscape of San Diego.
After exploring the lovely waterfall and relaxing with some wine tasting, you can stay the night at theBest Western Poway, Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar, or the Best Western Miramar, all conveniently located along the route !
After exploring the lovely waterfall and relaxing with some wine tasting, you can stay the night at the
Briar Rose Winery, 41720 Calle Cabrillo, Temecula, CA 92592, USA
After driving about 45 minutes north, you’ll reach Temecula, the wine haven of Southern California! Briar Rose Winery is the most charming place in town. The sweet cottage-like building looks so much like the one in the fairytale of Snow White that you’ll feel like you’re a storybook character. This family-owned winery features some of the best wine in Temecula. Do a tasting to really appreciate all the different varietals.
Callaway Vineyard & Winery, 32720 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591, USA
Just down the road is another fantastic place to taste delicious Temecula wine. Callaway Vineyard & Winery is the ideal place to end the day. Not only can you take your pick of excellent wines to try, but you will also certainly enjoy the unique menu for dinner. For something light, order the Snap Pea Burrata Salad, and if you’re in the mood for something hearty, there’s a flat-iron steak, halibut, and multiple pastas that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy after your fun day out.
After exploring two wineries in one day, you can stay the night at the Best Western Plus Temecula Wine Country Hotel & Suites, located right along the route!
After exploring two wineries in one day, you can stay the night at the Best Western Plus Temecula Wine Country Hotel & Suites, located right along the route!
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Tahquitz Canyon, California, USA
On the third day of the trip, get ready for more waterfalls! Take a two-mile hike to Tahquitz Canyon Falls for a really special experience. It’s found in the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Reservation, so it’s full of cultural significance. You’ll get to see rock art as well as a towering 60-foot waterfall! The native flora and fauna are beautiful too, so be sure to stop and smell the proverbial roses while you’re there.
Murray Canyon Drive, Murray Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92264, USA
Next on your list for the day is the Seven Sisters Waterfall, which you’ll access via Murray Canyon Trail. At 3.7 miles, it will take you a little over an hour and a half to walk. It’s not the easiest hike in Southern California, but the views along the way will be well worth your effort. The waterfall itself is surrounded by natural boulders, creating a uniquely Southern California scene.
After exploring these waterfalls all day, you can stay the night at theBest Western Inn at Palm Springs, the Best Western Plus Desert View Inn & Suites, or the Best Western Plus Las Brisas Hotel, all conveniently located along the route .
After exploring these waterfalls all day, you can stay the night at the
Big Falls, California 92339, USA
If you haven’t been to San Bernardino National Forest, it’s time you remedied that! You’ll be glad you did when you make your way to Big Falls on day four. Check out the incredibly varied landscape, from mountains to deserts. If you live in the Los Angeles area, it might become your favorite new getaway. At just 0.7 miles long, this trail makes for a quick hike with a major payoff. The aptly named Big Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Southern California.
Angeles National Forest, California 91042, USA
The next waterfall on your list is a longer walk, measuring approximately 4.4 miles. Found near Arroyo Grande, it might be on the long side, but it isn’t too challenging. It’s always amazing to see what natural treasures are hiding right outside the city in Angeles National Forest. This gorgeous waterfall will make you want to stay all day to gaze into its tranquil pool and hear the peaceful sound of rushing water.
Wildwood Regional Park, 928 W Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360, USA
The last hike of the trip is the beautiful Paradise Falls in Wildwood Regional Park. This waterfall is a perfect example of just how much Southern California nature has to offer. Follow Mesa, Teepee, and Moonridge Trail to get the full experience. You’ll be able to take a rest underneath a teepee and gaze out over the desert landscape. There are some great views on this hike too. You’ll be able to see untouched land for miles and feel like you’re on top of the world!
Urban Press Winery, 316 N San Fernando Blvd, Burbank, CA 91502, USA
You’ll definitely be tired out after so much adventuring, so head over to Urban Press Winery in downtown Burbank for dinner and wine tasting to celebrate having completed the road trip. No matter your wine preferences, this boutique winery will have an impeccable selection for you. If it’s still warm outside, sit on the patio to feel like you’re enjoying an evening in Italy. The decor, the food, and, of course, the wine, will combine to bring that relaxed feeling and give you the ideal ending to your four-day road trip in Southern California.
For one last place to stay, check out theBest Western Plus Media Center Inn & Suites or the Best Western Plus Glendale, which are both nice and close to the last stop .
For one last place to stay, check out the
What are your thoughts on this fun-filled road trip in Southern California? Tell us all about it in the comments! And if you’re ever looking for a convenient and comfortable place to stay, find the closest Best Western hotels in Southern California.