5 Easy Day Trips You Can Take From Los Angeles, My Favorite Included

When in Los Angeles, boredom is impossible. But if you are like me, I need time away from the city. I need to get away from the crowds, the traffic, and the noise. Fortunately, we don’t have to travel far to experience bucket-list-worthy destinations outside of LA. If you want a simple, easy, but unforgettable day trip from Los Angeles, consider the following five destinations. Each one is perfect for some time away from the City of Angels.

1. Ojai

• Distance from Downtown Los Angeles: Approximately 80 miles
• Fees: Varies on the activities you choose

Ojai is a small town tucked away in the Topatopa Mountains that I feel doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Not only is this small California town gorgeous, but it has an impressive arts scene, excellent outdoor recreational opportunities, and many wellness and spiritual attractions. Plan a day trip to Ojai during one of the town’s events, especially the Ojai Music Festival.

2. Catalina Island

• Distance from Downtown Los Angeles: Distance varies depending on where you board the ferry
• Fees: Depends on your ferry ride and choice of activities on the island

When you visit Catalina Island, you’ll feel like you are on an Italian vacation, rather than just a day trip from Los Angeles. You will need to take a short ferry ride to the island but here, you’ll find countless activities to keep you busy from sunrise to sunset including ziplines, bison expeditions, parasailing, kayaking, and more. The last time I visited Catalina Island, my husband and I rented bicycles and rode around the island. It was several hours filled with beautiful views.  

3. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

• Distance from Downtown Los Angeles: Approximately 105 miles
• Fees: There is a $15-$25 fee to enter from the South Beach area and a $10-$25 fee to enter the North Beach parking area.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a coastal state park in SoCal that will take you back in time. Bring your hiking boots and tackle one of the beautiful trails on the Reserve. As you hike, enjoy the views and keep an eye out for wildlife of all sizes. Make sure you also stop into the visitor center to learn more about this area and why it is so important.

4. Big Bear Lake

• Distance from Downtown Los Angeles: Approximately 95 miles
• Fees: Free but you may need a permit if launching a vessel of any kind in the water.

When you want to spend some time outdoors, there’s nothing quite like a day at Big Bear Lake. This mountain escape is unforgettable no matter the season, as you can kayak, fish, hike, etc., during the summer months and snowboard, snowshoe, and more in the winter. Plus, if you want to turn your day trip into an overnight adventure (which I don’t blame you), there are many incredible vacation rentals right on the water and tucked away in the trees.  

5. Idyllwild-Pine Cove

• Distance from Downtown Los Angeles: Approximately 110 miles
• Fees: Varies on activities

Idyllwild is an unincorporated community that outdoor lovers will love. Yes, this small village has shops and restaurants that you don’t want to miss, but the outdoor recreational opportunities are truly exceptional. It is tucked away in the San Jacinto Mountains and is surrounded by Tahquitz Peak and Suicide Rock, both incredible rock climbing destinations. This area also offers excellent hiking and mountain biking trails as well as some beautiful picnic spots for the entire family.

What do you consider the best day trip destinations near Los Angeles? Did your favorite make my list? Let me know about your favorite day trips by filling out this nomination form. And if you are looking for even more day trip destinations in SoCal, check out these 12 destinations. There is one day trip for each month of the year.