7 Top Day Trips from Los Angeles: Best Places to Visit! [2024]

Hey there, fellow explorers!

After many great trips exploring all corners of Southern California (SoCal), I'm ready to share the best of the best with you. I've seen a lot of SoCal, from the beautiful mountains to stunning beaches to amazing wineries.

Now, it's time to show you my favorite day trips you can take from Los Angeles.

The best part? Each one is an adventure and they're all just a short drive away.

Our first stop? The beautiful seaside city of Santa Barbara. Excited to check out more of what SoCal has to offer? Let's get going!

7. Americas' Mediterranean: Santa Barbara

Let's leave the city's noise behind and hit the Pacific Coast Highway to our first stop, Santa Barbara. Just a 90-mile drive northwest of Los Angeles, this unique coastal city is a real gem you can't afford to miss! Picture this: beautiful Mediterranean-style architecture, stunning blue beaches, and top-notch wineries – Santa Barbara is tough to beat.

Get ready to soak in the sights of lush green hills and channel your inner wine expert on a Santa Barbara wine-tasting day tour. The best part? Transportation and entrance fees are all sorted, so you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. We're off to an awesome start!

6. Underwater Fun: Catalina Island

Craving some nature and a splash of adventure? Catalina Island is your answer. This must-see spot for a day trip from Los Angeles offers a world of fun with snorkeling, watersports, and the perfect spots for catching some rays. Just 22 miles southwest off LA's coast, this little slice of palm-tree heaven is a quick getaway.

Hop on a Catalina Island ferry day trip for killer views and a guided tour of Avalon. You'll check out all the must-see spots like the Green Pleasure Pier and the Avalon Theater. Plus, there's some free time for you to wander and discover your own hidden gems. How cool is that!

5. A Desert Oasis: Palm Springs

Sitting pretty in the sizzling desert, Palm Springs is a star player when it comes to day trips. You could be chilling in the natural hot springs, testing your golf swing, or just soaking up the amazing scenery - it's a real-life oasis!

And hey, if you're keeping an eye on your wallet, the aerial tramway gives you stunning views without the hefty price tag. This bargain beauty can really take your Los Angeles day trip up a notch. Awesome, right?

4. For Adventure: Joshua Tree National Park

Right on the east side of Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park is an adrenaline junkie's paradise. Picture rolling mountains, quirky rock formations, vibrant plants, and a whole lot of hiking trails – there's so much to do. The best part? It's just a hop, skip and a jump from Los Angeles!

A Joshua Tree National Park scenic tour is an absolute steal for what you get. This half-day tour kicks off from Palm Desert, taking you through the park's best bits in a hummer or SUV. Mysterious cave paintings, a deep dive into history, and breathtaking landscapes are all set to wow you! Get ready to be amazed!

3. For The Kids-At-Heart: Disneyland, California

Let's let loose and bring out that inner kid in all of us! Traveling can totally include loads of fun and maybe even a little sweat. Time to switch gears and head on a day trip to the happiest place on earth - Disneyland! Just a quick 30-mile drive southeast of Anaheim, this world-famous theme park has something super fun for everyone.

Score a Disneyland resort ticket and say goodbye to those long, boring queues and standard sightseeing. It's time for some real fun, folks! Let's go and create some magical memories!

Local Tips: Be sure to book way in advance or during off-peak season, because these tickets get sold out frequently!

2. A Beach Bums Paradise: Malibu

Just 30 miles west of Los Angeles, Malibu is where surf meets some seriously stunning views. If you're on the prowl for the crème de la crème of LA day trips, you've found your match in Malibu.

Whether you're up for lazing on the beach, hunting for shells along the shore, or testing your balance on a surfboard, Malibu's got your back. And hey, if you're a savvy traveler watching your wallet, we've got you covered. You can make waves and memories on this super-affordable stand-up paddle board tour in Malibu. Just imagine the stories you'll have to share!

1. Food, Drink, & Entertainment: San Diego

Kissing the southern edge of Los Angeles, San Diego is a global sensation for all the right reasons! With its cool museums, adrenaline-packed theme parks, heavenly beaches, and mouth-watering food scenes, you're in for surprise finds at every turn.

Nature buffs, brace yourselves for the incredible wildlife San Diego has to show off. And for a wildlife experience that won't drain your wallet, a dolphin and whale-watching sunset cruise is the way to go.

For my food-loving friends out there, San Diego is your culinary playground with its renowned food tours. We're talking ethnic eats, comfort food joints, classic American treats, and dishes from around the globe. If your taste buds are up for an adventure, dive into a guided Downtown San Diego food tour.

But before you head out for your LA escapades, double-check your gear. It's a real downer when you reach your destination only to realize you've left your essentials at home. Save time and skip packing mishaps with our complete vacation packing list. Trust me, it's a lifesaver!

Are You an Avid Sightseer?

Los Angeles is a whirlwind of fun-filled activities and must-see attractions, but let's be honest—it can get a little heavy on the pocket. However, if you're traveling on a budget and don't want to miss out on the LA experience, we've got you covered! Who says you need to stick to a shoestring budget, especially when you've got a Go City Pass handy?

Aiming to make the most out of sightseeing without emptying your wallet? It's all in one handy app. Ditch the hassle of rummaging through your bag for tickets, and book attractions with fast-track entry. Pretty sweet deal, right?

Why Visit Los Angeles?

There's little doubt that Los Angeles is a bucket list destination. This part of the U.S offers something unique, ranging from panoramic landscapes, modern museums, vibrant culture, to bliss-inducing beaches.

Stepping outside of the city, even if it's just for a day or two, can make you appreciate all the contrasts even more!

Day Tripping and Beyond With Pilot!

Piecing together the ultimate Los Angeles itinerary is an enticing, if somewhat overwhelming, endeavor. Sprinkle in a few of these day trips and you're guaranteed to have a ball.

If you want to make planning easy, take things one step further and start planning your trip today!