The 12 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Southern California

No matter the season, it's always fun to plan 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. From remote getaways to splendid outdoor hikes and everything in between, we believe that these are some of the very best day trips in Southern California. Ready to start exploring? Let's go!

1. Sunset Cliffs - San Diego

For those who seek 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.

Our journey to discover Southern California day trips starts out in San Diego, California. Take a look at the beautiful Sunset Cliffs Natural Park with Alejandro’s Adventures:

2. Idyllwild - Irvine

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.

3. Briar Rose Winery - Temecula

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.

4. Carpinteria

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 the quaint main street, and dining at some tasty local restaurants.

5. Chantry Flat Recreation Area - Sierra Madre

Editor's Note: Unfortunately, Chantry Flat Recreation Area is temporarily closed due to damage from the Bobcat Fire. Nothing beats a day out in one of SoCal's lush green forests... especially on a hot summer day. Tucked inside Angeles National Forest, Chantry Flat Recreation Area is a stunning destination for some of the most picturesque hikes imaginable.

6. Ventura Harbor Village - Ventura

This quaint village on Ventura Harbor is just one of the many places in SoCal where you'll want to spend a leisurely afternoon. Whether you wish 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.

Join Exploration To Go as they go on a day trip near you in Ventura Harbor Village:

7. Balboa Park - San Diego

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.

8. California Citrus State Historic Park - Riverside

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.

9. Descanso Gardens - Flintridge

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.

10. Gold Mine Tour - Julian

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 one-hour gold mine tour is a great way to spend part of your day in this charming SoCal town.

11. Wrightwood

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.

12. Cedar Creek Falls - Ramona

Last but certainly not least on our list of the best day trips in Southern California is a beautiful waterfall known as Cedar Creek Falls. 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.

Marlon & Gabriela head to Cedar Creek Falls in this video showing off one of our favorite SoCal day trips with a beautiful reward:

So what do you think? Are these the best day trips in Southern California? Perhaps you know of some other spontaneous day trips near you. If so, feel free to share them with us in the comments!

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.