California
Trip Ideas|Road Trips

Southern California Road Trip Ideas: 11 Best Road Trips + Itinerary

Southern California offers stunning road trips with scenic views, state parks, and coastal drives.

Updated Jun 24, 2024

Written by 

Will Suphan

Southern California has some of the most beautiful landscapes for a lovely road trip getaway. Cruising along on a scenic drive along the California coast with dazzling views of the Pacific Ocean or driving through state parks like Sequoia National Park or Kings Canyon National Park with their stunning vistas, beautiful waterfalls, and gorgeous trees will make any day trip on the road an experience you won’t soon forget. Southern California has a lot of areas to explore, from Santa Monica to Santa Barbara, however, these 11 best road trips in Southern California will show you the best of it all.

For road trip planning and packing tips, check out OnlyInYourState's Ultimate Road Trip Packing List. Whether you're leaving for a single day or a week-long road trip, you can't forget the snacks: here are 50 on-the-go snack ideas perfect for traveling.

1-Day Road Trip in Southern California

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NavyCamera Operator: PH2 DUTKIEWICZ, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
  • Route: Old Point Loma Lighthouse, San Diego > New Point Loma Lighthouse, San Diego > Lighthouse Cafe, Newport Beach > Los Angeles Harbor Light, San Pedro > Point Fermin Lighthouse, San Pedro > Point Vicente Lighthouse, Rancho Palos Verdes
  • Distance: 156 miles
  • Trip Time: 3 hours, 31 minutes driving time

If you love lighthouses and quick road trips in Southern California, then this one-day road trip along Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is for you! With six majestic lighthouses along the way from San Diego to Los Angeles, this is a wonderful way to take in some wondrous views, lovely architecture, and local history all at once. It takes about 3.5 hours to complete and you’ll want to stop at each one for some magnificent photo opportunities. Make sure to save the last one at Point Vicente Lighthouse for watching the sunset atop the gorgeous cliffs.

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3-Day Weekend Road Trip in Southern California

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Leonardo Morcillo, Sr/Google
  • Route: Ojai > Sierra Madre > Olde Towne Orange > Wrightwood > Crestline > Oak Glen > Idyllwild > Julian
  • Distance: 401 miles
  • Trip Time: 8 hours driving time
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There are charming small towns scattered throughout Southern California, and this weekend road trip will take you to eight stunning locations including quaint towns like Idyllwild and Sierra Madre. It offers scenic overlooks into verdant valleys and mountain roads through lush forests. With a total of 8 hours of driving time, you’ll want to take your time at each location, stay the night at a couple of them and truly explore and soak in the relaxation and beauty of the Californian countryside.

La Jolla Road Trip

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Chet King/Google
  • Route: La Jolla Shores Beach > Scripps Pier > La Jolla Cove > Birch Aquarium > La Jolla Historical Society > Torrey Pines State Reserve
  • Distance: 12 miles
  • Trip Time: 38 minutes driving time
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La Jolla is known as one of the most beautiful coastal towns in the state, and this road trip will take you to the most wonderful locations in the area. Beach coves and cliffs, a scenic pier, a stunning aquarium, and a historical site will head north to a gorgeous nature reserve and you can experience it all in a day. Some of these spots are perfect for whale watching on the West Coast and the Spanish architecture is a sight to behold. La Jolla is a place that should be on everyone’s Southern California road trip itinerary.

Orange County Parks Road Trip

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Ian Jensen/Google
  • Route: Mile Square Regional Park in Fountain Valley > Great Park Balloon and Carousel in Irvine > Crescent Bay Point Park in Laguna Beach > Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach
  • Distance: 34 miles
  • Trip Time: 1 hour driving time

The area of Orange County just south of Los Angeles has several lovely city parks that are great places for a picnic, a casual stroll, and for simply relaxing and taking in the beauty of these places. Take a road trip to four of these parks, from Miles Square Regional Park between Santa Ana and Huntington Beach which is filled with eucalyptus trees and walking paths to a mysterious pirate tower by a cliff at Victoria Beach which is just a little way north of Dana Point. These are wonderful places to take your dog, your family, or both! This is easily one of the best weekend road trips in Southern California.

Best Southern California Road Trip For Spring

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Michael Grimes/Google
  • Route: Rim of the World Highway in San Bernardino > Mission Creek Preserve in Desert Hot Springs > Wolf Mountain Sanctuary in Lucerne Valley > Center Stage Theatre in Fontana
  • Distance: 201 miles
  • Trip Time: 4 hours driving time
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Springtime in Southern California is a delightful time for a road trip like no other. Take this road trip to the stunning scenic overlooks along the Rim of the World Highway and the serene desert landscapes of Mission Creek Preserve. Interact with actual wolves at the Wolf Mountain Sanctuary and enjoy a scrumptious meal while taking in some live entertainment at Center Stage Theatre. You won’t soon forget the awe-inspiring sights you’ll see and the amazing experiences you’ll have on a vibrant spring day in Southern California.

Best Summer Road Trip in Southern California

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photos by clark/flickr
  • Route: Unconditional Surrender Statue > Salvation Mountain > International Banana Museum > Ruddy's General Store Museum > Cabazon Dinosaurs > Tio's Tacos > Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch > World's Tallest Thermometer
  • Distance: 444 miles
  • Trip Time: 7.5 hours driving time
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Summer is the time for fun and why not include a road trip that is filled with whimsical, silly, and intriguing places that you’d have to see to believe? Man-made artistic wonders that will baffle you, quirky roadside attractions that will give you a chuckle, and strange museums full of wonderment await you. There’s even a stop at an iconic taco shop that is decorated inside and out with all kinds of oddities and you won’t know whether to gawk or eat.

Best Southern California Road Trip For Fall

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David Wu/Google
  • Route: Jackson Lake > Wrightwood > Big Bear Lake > Snow-Line Orchard > Willowbrook Apple Farm > Riley's Farm > Palomar Mountain State Park > Lake Cuyamaca > Balboa Park
  • Distance: 318 miles
  • Trip Time: 7.25 hours driving time

The Golden State really earns its name during the fall when the trees are awash with gold and rust hues. Fall is when you can get out on a wondrous road trip to see the vibrant natural beauty of this state on a scenic byway, traipse along some stunning hiking trails, and visit farms and orchards for apple and pumpkin picking. See the colorful trees on the shores of Jackson Lake, Lake Cuyamaca, and Big Bear Lake (which is perfect for kayaking), take in valley views at Palomar Mountain State Park, and take a stroll through Balboa Park which is not only home to gorgeous scenery, but the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

Best Winter Road Trip in Southern California

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Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country/Facebook
  • Route: Hotel del Coronado in San Diego > Balboa Park in San Diego > San Diego Bay Parade of Lights on Shelter Island and Coronado > Temecula Valley Wine Country in Temecula > Festival of Lights at Mission Inn in Riverside > Disneyland in Anaheim > LA Zoo Lights in Los Angeles > Robolights in Palm Springs
  • Distance: 303 miles
  • Trip Time: 5.75 hours driving time
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Winter is when everyone gets out their holiday lights and decorations to put on dazzling displays that are a joy to witness. Take a drive to some of the most multicolored and scintillating shows of light around Southern California. The destinations are just as lovely to behold as the holiday displays. The historic Mission Inn and Hotel del Coronado, the wineries of Temecula Valley, and the Los Angeles Zoo which is right around the bend from the famous Hollywood sign are all must-see destinations in and of themselves. To see them lit up is a special treat.

Family-Friendly Southern California Road Trip

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Keith Ayers/Google
  • Route: Pirate's Dinner Adventure in Buena Park > The Last Bookstore in Los Angeles > Galleta Meadows Sculptures in Borrego Springs > Corvette Diner in San Diego
  • Distance: 268 miles
  • Trip Time: 5.5 hours driving time
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While a solo drive is a great way to clear your head, it’s also a wonderful time when you get the whole family together and take a drive around to enjoy some of the fun attractions and amazing sights in Southern California. Enjoy a pirate-themed dinner and entertainment, see towers and arches of books in a vast bookstore, wonder at massive metal sculptures in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and tuck into a yummy meal at a quaint 50s-style diner. This is one of the best road trips to take in Southern California if you have kids because it has it all!

Road Trip to Southern California Landmarks & Natural Wonders

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Stuart Rankin/Flickr
  • Route: Zabriskie Point in Death Valley > Lava Tube at Mojave National Preserve > Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves in Anza-Borrego State Park > Cedar Creek Falls in Ramona > Sunny Jim Sea Cave in La Jolla > Vasquez Rocks in Agua Dulce > Channel Islands National Park
  • Distance: 778 miles
  • Trip Time: 14.5 hours driving time

Southern California has some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the USA. This road trip will take you to Death Valley National Park with its intriguing rock formations, a lava tube in the Mojave Desert, a sea cave in La Jolla, mesmerizing islands off the coast, and more. The viewpoints, overlooks, and geological formations you’ll encounter along this trip will delight your senses and invigorate you with their beauty.

Road Trip to Best Small Towns in Southern California

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Michael Layton/Google
  • Route: Wrightwood > Crestline > Lake Arrowhead Village > Running Springs > Big Bear Lake > Forest Falls > Oak Glen > Mt. Baldy
  • Distance: 182 miles
  • Trip Time: 4.5 hours driving time

The charm and splendor of the little mountain towns in Southern California show a side of this state that many don’t take the time to see. Many people go for the big attractions like Napa Valley, Joshua Tree National Park, or Yosemite National Park, however, the quaint places on this road trip offer views that are just as majestic with a friendly helping of small-town hospitality to go along with it all. Browse the cute shops, eat some one-of-a-kind meals, and enjoy the eye-popping scenery as you wend your way through some of the loveliest small towns in Southern California.

Have you been to any of the scenic and beautiful places on the best road trips in Southern California? Do you have any favorite places that you’d like to see? Let us know about them in the comments. If you’d like to see even more natural beauty and enjoy some top-notch wine, take this road trip to some of Southern California’s best waterfalls and wineries.

Want to show off your California pride as you explore the state? Take a look at the selection of apparel and accessories from our friends at Wear Your Roots!

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Trip Ideas|Road Trips

The Scenic Road Trip That Leads to 5 of Southern California’s Most Charming Small Towns

Grab the keys and hit the road to explore small towns in Southern California full of history, culture, and more.

Published Sep 9, 2024

Written by 

Natasha Kayes

It may surprise some to know that you do not have to wander far from the beaten path in the Golden State to find tiny towns full of history, culture, and the small-town charm we often crave. In fact, several of my favorite small towns in Southern California are located within a few miles of each other and close to major highways. But, make no mistake about it, each of these places will envelope you in a little world of its own.

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Google Maps

The route to visit these five charming towns is only 85 miles in total and is beautiful to drive. It requires less than two hours of actual driving time (give or take), leaving plenty of time for exploration. Click on the map above for detailed directions and to customize your trip - there are plenty of fun stops you could add along the way!

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Richie Diesterheft/Flickr

We start things off in the Old West town of Los Alamos. The tiny downtown is packed with character, from its historic buildings to its popular antique mall to some pretty great restaurants. And of course, being in the Santa Ynez Valley - known for its wine country - Los Alamos has several wonderful wineries you can visit. 

You’ll definitely want to consider having breakfast or brunch at the French-inspired bistro, Bell’s Restaurant. You would probably not expect a Michelin-star restaurant in a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town like Los Alamos, but here it is. If you’d like to get an early start on your small-town road trip, you could come and stay the night before in one of the town’s cool historic hotels such as the 1880 Union Hotel or book one of the fantastical themed rooms at Victorian Mansion Bed and Breakfast.

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Los Olivos is located in Santa Barbara County, California. Lost Olivos is one of five communities that make up the Santa Ynez Valley. The town is very near route 154, a scenic road from Santa Barbara over the San Marcos Pass, through the coastal Santa Ynez Mountains. Los Olivos is renowned for its wineries and tasting rooms. The town is also home to two expensive college prep schools, Dunn School and Midland School. Various celebrities have called this area home. The town is also surrounded by many ranches.

From Los Alamos, it’s less than 12 miles to our next stop, another tiny Santa Ynez town called Los Olivos. Anyone who knows this town that began its history along a stagecoach route in 1861 knows it is an excellent place for winetasting. There are over 25 stunning wineries and tasting rooms in and around the town. Zaca Mesa Winery, just north of town, is one of my personal favorites. 

What many don’t realize, although the town’s name is a huge hint, is that Los Olivos is the olive capital of the state, known for its many olive trees and olive oil production. In fact, you can enjoy gourmet olive oil tastings and balsamic vinegar pairings at Olive Hill Farm. You may just discover something new.

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Street view picture of the city of Solvang during a road trip in California. The buildings are colorful. The sky is partly cloudy.

Nearby Solvang is widely known and a very popular tourist town, but it also happens to be one of the most charming European towns in the state and it would be a shame to pass through the area without exploring. There are so many things to do in Solvang, from shopping to wine tasting to sampling yummy Danish treats and pastries. I highly recommend visiting Vinhus for wine, cheeses, chocolates, and much more.

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You could rush through this road trip and try to catch a glimpse of each town in one long day, but you should really consider taking at least a weekend to explore and enjoy these visit-worthy towns. To that end, might I suggest a stay at The Landsby - an elegant yet affordable European-style hotel that also happens to house one of the best restaurants in town?

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Wayne Hsieh/Flickr

From Solvang, we take one of my favorite scenic drives down through the San Marcos Pass to Santa Barbara. Just south of Santa Barbara, Carpinteria is a relaxed beach town populated with palm trees and cool local businesses. I always stop at the Lucky Llama Coffee House for a Mayan Mocha, and right next door is the cutest shop, Heritage Goods and Supply, that I can never keep myself from popping into while I’m here. 

There are tons of great little shops and places to eat on the two main cross streets, Carpinteria and Linden Avenues. You’ll find breakfast, burgers, tacos, pizza, and nearly anything else you’re craving, as well as the awesome Island View Brewing Company, in this laid-back, walkable beach town. Of course, the beach itself is also a major reason to visit Carpinteria. I highly recommend a walk through the peaceful Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve to enjoy gorgeous ocean views, a walk on the sand below the bluffs, a seal sanctuary, and natural tar pits.

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Landscape shot of the Ojai valley with snow on the mountains.

Another pretty drive through the mountains and around Lake Casitas leads to our last stop in Ojai. Tucked between the scenic mountains in Ojai Valley, this friendly town is full of art, history, culture, and gorgeous architecture. Explore, shop, grab a snack or some coffee, and wander through the shelves of the wonderful outdoor bookstore, Bart’s Books. Then drive up about a mile to the hidden Ojai Valley Scenic Overlook for stunning views of the entire valley. 

End your trip with a fantastic comfort-food dinner at Boccali’s Pizza and Pasta. You cannot go wrong with any of the mouthwatering Italian dishes (the lasagna is huge and amazing) and you will fall in love with the classic red and white checkered decor. It might be a challenge, but if you can manage it, save room for the spectacular Strawberry Shortcake - it’s big enough to share.

How many of these sweet little Southern California towns have you explored? Which are your favorite? We would love to hear from you in the comments. If your favorite way to explore this state is by driving through it, be sure to check out another of our favorite Southern California road trip ideas!

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Trip Ideas|Road Trips

The Scenic Road Trip That Will Make You Fall In Love With The Beauty Of Northern California All Over Again

A scenic road trip through Northern California highlights some of the best natural and urban sites in the area.

Updated Jul 30, 2024

Written by 

Danielle Schwartz

If you’ve lived in Northern California for a long time, it’s probably been a while since you’ve headed to some of the places you absolutely had to see when you moved there. But if you’re looking to revitalize your love of one of the most beautiful areas in California, you’ll have a great time on this scenic road trip through some of the best sites in nature and the city. With only two and a half hour hours of driving, you'll get to spend most of your day truly taking in all the sights and sounds. This Northern California road trip is an amazing way to kill some time.

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Check out this California scenic drives map for a detailed look at the road trip. After your day of exploration, you’ll be more amazed than ever by the beauty of Northern California!

Buckle up, buckaroos — it's time for a California coast road trip!

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Google Maps

1. Point Reyes National Seashore

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NeoWasHere/TripAdvisor
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NeoWasHere/TripAdvisor

Go for a gorgeous hike with ocean views to die for at Point Reyes National Seashore. With the sea right next to you, you’ll fall in love with the scenic location and want to come back again and again. There are also plenty of different choices depending on what you are looking to do, whether that is a quick walk or a longer hike along the shore and through the open spaces running alongside it. Point Reyes National Monument is unlike anything you'll have ever experienced, hands down.

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Check out this delightful video tour of Point Reyes and all the must-see spots while you're here:

2. Muir Woods National Monument

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Jennifer A/TripAdvisor
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Must See/TripAdvisor

Take a break from city life and absorb the enchanted feeling of being in the old-growth redwood forest. There is something magical about these trees, and you will know it when you walk through the quiet forest. You won’t be able to believe it’s only 12 miles away from bustling San Francisco. There are 554 acres of protected land at this national monument, and you will be so thankful that it is preserved when you see how beautiful it is. The Muir Woods National Monument is not an experience you'll soon forget.

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3. Coit Tower

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The_Loup_Garou/TripAdvisor
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The_Loup_Garou/TripAdvisor

This monument is an amazing overlook of San Francisco, especially if you are a fan of the city’s one-of-a-kind architecture. It’s also a good place to go if you’re a history buff, as you’ll get to see interesting murals dating back to 1934. This is also a fabulous place to see a stunning sunrise or sunset, as you’ll see so much of the sky turning pastel colors.

Check out this relaxing view of San Francisco from Coit Tower:

4. Twin Peaks

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Monte54/TripAdvisor
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Chin711/TripAdvisor

Twin Peaks is a conveniently located lookout point that is well worth the 20-minute drive from downtown San Francisco. With panoramic views of the city up here at this high point, you will be so glad you made the trip. If you and your group are fans of city views, this is the spot for you!

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5. Pacifica State Beach

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Mini/TripAdvisor
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Conclude your day at the stunning Pacifica State Beach for some relaxation and whale watching. The misty beach is a tranquil place to remind yourself of the amazing natural environment that surrounds you in Northern California. If you’re patient, you’ll have the chance to observe whales playing in the gentle waves past the break. This experience is a truly unique one, so don’t forget to bring your camera!

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Fall in love with Pacifica State Beach in this mesmerizing 4k video:

Enjoy your newfound appreciation of the great place you call home. Have you taken this Northern California road trip yet? What are your picks for the most scenic places in Northern California? Let us know what you think!

Before heading out on this NorCal road trip, check out our Ultimate Road Trip Essentials Packing List for all the things you need for a long car ride.

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