LA Getaways: Weekend Trips and Excursions from the City
Dancing along to the lively Los Angeles beat can feel exciting, but sometimes you have to switch things up. To tune into the different rhythm you crave, for a chance to escape the vibrant city life that can make you feel boxed in and lose touch with reality!
That’s why it’s important to plan a getaway, whether it's a weekend v-cay or an extended break for some much-needed self-care. And that’s exactly what makes California special. It’s full of adventure, relaxation, and new experiences with no end in sight.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through some exciting city travel destinations both near and far from LA. From retreats, and adventure escapes to urban food-centric towns, it's time to pack your bags for a reset trip. Get ready for that long-overdue glow-up, embracing every moment with a resounding “yes, and?”, as Ariana Grande would say.
A Retreat &Escape
With Los Angeles always buzzing with vibes, sometimes we need something more chill. And nothing says that more than the top three retreat locations we recommend below.
Palm Springs
This iconic desert is the go-to place, filled with resorts, hot springs, and other fun things to do or hang by the pool. It’s only about a 2 to 3-hour drive from LA (when the traffic is good) and close to Coachella and Joshua Tree National Park. We recommend you go any time of the year outside of midsummer, where it can be 100+ degrees.
Manhattan Beach
A relaxing getaway on the outskirts of the LA city limits, where you can soak in the sun, surf, play volleyball, or treat yourself to boutique shopping, or ocean-front dining.
Catalina Island
Island fun is only one skip away, fun, as Catalina Island is one of those places you have to visit at least once. Escape to paradise on this beautiful island with plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and boating, or simply relax on the beach. It’s the perfect blend of history meets rustic charm making it an ideal vacation destination. FOMO much?
For Adventure Seekers
As much as staying local in Los Angeles with the comfort of your home can be convenient, we all have that inner Sagittarius (whether you’re one or not) adventurous spirit. Check out the below of many city excursions away from LA to tame that craving.
Rosarito Beach
Whether you get there by plane or make it a road trip by car, you’ll be in awe once in Baja California, Mexico, which is 40 minutes away from San Diego, it’s the perfect place to party and explore.
Big Bear
With it being about 2 hours away from Los Angeles, this is the place for great outdoor adventures all year round from winter sports like skiing and snowboarding to spending weekends at the lake in the summer, including hiking and stargazing.
Crystal Cove State Park
Step into nature and break away from it all with Crystal Cove State Park, with beaches, hiking, coves, and tide pools to explore.
Cultural Expeditions
Are vintage and cultural thrills more of your vibe? Then strap in for some interesting exploration of nearby places dripping with heritage and history.
Hearst Castle
In the enchanted hills of San Simeon lies Hearst Castle, a mansion turned museum with 165 rooms, luckily there are tour guides so you don’t get lost while you wander the halls as you look at all the 1865 architecture and interior design. And be in awe of the amazing views overlooking San Simeon. You can make it a road trip and swing by Solvang and Santa Barbara for those extra TikTok and Insta-worthy pit stops!
Balboa Island
One hour South of LA, you can quickly feel the coastal breeze at Balboa Island, a gem with stylish boutiques and a beachy aesthetic. Perfect for those sunset pics and to melt your worries away.
San Juan Capistrano
An easy drive and train ride away from Los Angeles, San Juan Capistrano is a mix of vintage and culture that’s a wonder to explore the historic district, antique stores, and structures from the late 1700s.
Foodie Tours & Destinations
Last but not least, we gotta get our foodie tours on, below are places that’ll hit the spot for every type of culinary interest.
Santa Barbara
Of course, we have to talk about the highly talked about place, Santa Barbara, where it’s all about the coastal charm and the founding city of culinary delights like McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams. Well known for its wineries, be sure to check out Los Olivos, a small wine town in the middle of Santa Barbara. You can either drive or catch the train from LA to this seaside escape.
San Diego
One of the top “foodie” cities in the U.S., California knows what’s up. And San Diego is a lot closer (compared to Sacramento) to LA with a 2-3 hour drive. It’s the place to enjoy seafood, street tacos, Italian, fine American food, Filipino, and other Asian dishes, and much more.
There are many options to choose from to match the tune you’re looking for outside of the vibrant Los Angeles rhythm. Whether it’s a brief weekend retreat to Manhattan Beach and Crystal Cove State Park. Or an extended California trip to Palm Springs. As you plan your next escape, consider the diverse appeal of the above city getaways for your chance for relaxation and exploration beyond the ordinary. You’ll want to save this blog for the next time you're ready for a break.
