12 Unforgettable Southern California Day Trips, One for Each Month of the Year

If you call Southern California home but haven't had a chance to explore this part of the country as much as you'd like, you aren't alone. To help you out, we've put together this itinerary that will lead you to some pretty wonderful things to do in SoCal, one for each month of the year. From a delightful chocolate shop and petting zoo to a dreamy destination filled with wildflowers, this epic list has it all so you can carve out some memorable outings. From the desert to the coastline, make this a year of adventure.

January: Joshua Tree National Park

During January, when the desert temps are cool, a wintertime hike through Joshua Tree National Park is the place to be and one of the best getaway spots in Southern California. Although we can't guarantee you'll find snow here, it's quite a magical sight to see when the snow does fall during the winter season.

February: Chocolate, Wine, and Animals

Nothing says February quite like chocolate. So how about a day trip to the nation's one and only chocolate shop AND animal sanctuary? Located in the city of Temecula, Sugarplum Zoo is a great place for a pre-Valentine's Day celebration where you can get your chocolate fix and visit some darling animals at the same time. And, of course, because Sugarplum Zoo is located in Temecula Wine Country, you can also enjoy curated wine tastings from Chapin Family Vineyards. This may just be the perfect date night destination in SoCal.

March: Hike through the Wildflowers

When the month of March rolls around, it's that time of year when the wildflowers are in full bloom in Southern California. Although we don't know if SoCal will have another Superbloom like in years past, you can still count on colorful wildflowers in SoCal during the springtime. And it's spectacular. We recommend observing these splendid blooms at Chino Hills State Park.

April: The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

Each and every year, the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch draws a crowd from all over the world. And it's easy to see why, as there are more than 80 million colorful blooms, creating quite the breathtaking scene. Walk through the flower fields, participate in the activities, and simply admire the sea of color surrounding you—it's the perfect spring activity.

May: Hike to Escondido Falls

May is the perfect time to lace up those hiking boots and hit the trails, and we know just the place to go—the Escondido Falls Trail. Located just a short drive from Los Angeles, this trail is approximately 3.5 miles, has less than 500 feet of elevation gain, and features a large waterfall finish. Keep in mind there are upper and lower falls, but the upper falls are on private property, and access is not allowed.

June: Fork & Plow Lavender Farm

During the month of June, when the lavender season is in full bloom, you'll want to carve out a day to visit one of SoCal's most delightful lavender farms. Fork & Plow Lavender Farm offers u-pick French Lavender and a variety of workshops, including soap making, candle making, wreath making, and more. Tickets sell well in advance, so make sure you buy yours as soon as possible.

July: Visit Catalina Island

Hop aboard a ferry to Southern California's best-known island. A day trip to Catalina Island is one SoCal tradition that seems to mark the middle of summer. Rent a bike and ride around the island, kayak, shop, or just spend a day relaxing and enjoying the views. You may even want to turn a day trip to Catalina Island into a weekend getaway—this is a postcard-worthy escape.

August: Lake Gregory Waterpark

There's something about summertime in SoCal that makes everyone long for a relaxing day at the lake. Although there are many fun places to visit to have some lakeside fun in Southern California, one longtime favorite is a trip to this inflatable waterpark at Lake Gregory that the whole family will enjoy.

September: Explore Idyllwild

As the season changes from summer to fall in SoCal, one of the best places to be is in the mountain town of Idyllwild. Packed with delicious eateries, stunning wildlife, and plenty of hikes for those who love nature, this peaceful town in SoCal is tops on the list for a day trip.

October: Willowbrook Apple Farm

October is apple-picking season in Southern California, which makes a day trip to the small town of Oak Glen the perfect place to be this time of year. You'll find plenty of great spots in Oak Glen to pick apples and enjoy the fall festivities, including this charming destination, Willowbrook Farm.

November: A Two-Hour Scenic Sunday Drive

When November is in full swing, you'll want to jump in the car and head out on this two-hour foliage drive through the most eye-popping fall colors SoCal has to offer. Drive through Wrightwood, Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, and Green Valley Lake for a glimpse of fall beauty, truly making it one of the best (and most beautiful!) fall day trips in Southern California.

December: Festival of Lights

December is all about embracing the magic of the holiday season. One breathtaking way to experience the beauty of the holidays is by visiting the annual Festival of Lights at the historic Mission Inn Hotel and Spa in downtown Riverside. With millions of twinkling lights and tons of holiday cheer in the air, this is the perfect place for a day trip toward the end of the year.

I love a good day trip, don't you? Are you ready to hit the road and make this a year full of adventure and exploration? Make sure to bookmark this article so you can reference it throughout the year—this is where memories are made, folks.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.