11 Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles (Within Driving Distance!)

1. Malibu 

If you’re looking for more of a staycation situation, consider booking a relaxing weekend in Malibu. Spend your chill getaway soaking up the sun at the beach, and be sure to fit in a hike or two while you’re there. I especially love the Point Dume Cove Trail (which offers some of the most beautiful views in Malibu!) and the Ocean Overlook Loop. 

You also can’t skip doing a tour of the Adamson House, a breathtaking 1920s beachfront property right off the Pacific Coast Highway. If you are feeling adventurous, consider taking a 1.5 hour private surf lesson at Surfrider Beach, or doing a guided electric bike tour through the scenic Santa Monica Mountains. 

Where to Stay: 

• The Surfrider Hotel (one of the most beautifully designed options on the PCH)
• Malibu Beach Inn (a 5-star luxury hotel that is right on the beach)
• Calamigos Guest Ranch (best if you want a quieter getaway up in the Santa Monica Mountains)

2. Ojai

Set in a picturesque valley in Ventura County, Ojai is the ideal spot for a laidback, sun-soaked weekend trip. There’s plenty to do in the small charming town, including shopping at the local vintage boutiques, strolling through the farmers market, and exploring Bart’s Books (a unique outdoor bookstore). There’s also plenty of great places in town to grab a bite to eat. I love Hip Vegan – their gunpowder fries are a must! 

While you’re in town, I also highly suggest making a stop at Ojai Olive Oil for some tastings (and to pick up a souvenir to bring home, of course).

Where to Stay:

• Ojai Valley Inn (a 5-star hotel with a stunning property)
• Blue Iguana Inn (one of the more affordable – yet still highly-rated – options in town)

3. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is hands-down one of my favorite places to go when I’m looking for a quick getaway from LA. There’s so much to do in and around town, including hiking, spending time at the beach, strolling through the incredibly beautiful downtown area, and indulging in the wine scene. 

During your weekend in Santa Barbara, be sure to spend time strolling down State Street – the main drag that extends through downtown all the way to the beach. While you’re downtown, I highly recommend you make your way to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, which is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful courthouses in California. 

If you’re a wine lover, you’ll also want to check out some of the tasting rooms in the Funk Zone (Pali Wine Company is one of my favorites). You can even spend one of your days wine tasting in the Santa Ynez Valley (more on that in a moment).  

Where to Stay:

• Palihouse Santa Barbara (an artfully designed boutique hotel located in Downtown SB)
• Santa Barbara Inn (a gorgeous beachfront hotel)
• El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel (a luxurious, tucked away 5-star hotel)

4. Santa Ynez Valley

For a relaxing weekend getaway filled with wine tastings and spending some time outdoors, make your way to Santa Ynez Valley (which is about a 45-minute drive inland from Santa Barbara). This destination is home to Santa Barbara’s wine scene, and there’s no shortage of amazing vineyards to explore. For ease (and so that you don’t have to drive), consider booking a wine tour of the Santa Ynez Valley, where they’ll take you to some of the best vineyards in the valley! 

While you’re in the area, spend a day in Solvang – the Danish capital of the US. There are a ton of fun things to do in Solvang, but the one spot you absolutely can’t skip is OstrichLand USA. 

Another charming Santa Ynez Valley town worth checking out is Los Olivos. The downtown area is incredibly cute, and can get very lively on weekends (especially when the weather is nice!). 

Where to Stay: 

• The Genevieve (an elegant, traditionally decorated bed-and-breakfast in Santa Ynez)
• The Landsby (a charming 4-star hotel in the heart of Solvang)

5. San Luis Obispo 

If you’re looking for a cute, walkable town to explore over a weekend, make your way to San Luis Obispo. As you stroll through town, be sure to check out the famous Bubblegum Alley, and to walk by the gorgeous Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. I also suggest grabbing a drink at Scout Coffee!

While you’re visiting SLO, I highly recommend making the approximately 50-minute drive out to Montaña de Oro State Park. The gorgeous Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail will take you along the coastal bluffs, where you’ll get stunning views of the rocky coastline. 

Where to Stay:

• San Luis Creek Lodge (a highly-rated boutique hotel that is less than a mile from the heart of Downtown SLO)
• Petit Soleil (a beautifully designed bed and breakfast within walking distance of the best shops and eateries in Downtown SLO)
• Madonna Inn (a one-of-a-kind hotel famous for its bright pink color palette and totally eccentric design)

6. Paso Robles

Another one of the best destinations for those looking for a wine-centric weekend getaway is Paso Robles. The beautiful Central Coast town is home to some of the top wineries in the state. You can choose a few to visit on your own, or you can book an all-inclusive wine tasting tour to let an expert guide you. 

During your weekend in Paso Robles, spend some time exploring the charming downtown area. I recommend stopping by Momotaro Ramen at the Paso Market Walk for lunch or dinner, and grabbing a cup of coffee at Spearhead Coffee. While you’re there, I also suggest spending a night exploring the immersive Light at Sensorio light show (just be sure to buy your tickets in advance, as they do sell out!). 

Where to Stay:

• Allegretto Vineyard Resort Paso Robles (a luxury resort with Mediterranean-inspired design)
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites, an IHG Hotel (a highly-rated budget-friendly hotel that is just a 5-minute drive from downtown)
• Treetop Lodge Vacation Rental (a charming, top-rated VRBO that is within walking distance of town)

7. Joshua Tree

If you are looking for a more outdoorsy weekend getaway within driving distance of Los Angeles, there’s no better place than Joshua Tree National Park. There are a ton of amazing hiking trails in Joshua Tree, with options for all skill levels. I especially recommend hiking the Hidden Valley Nature Trail and the Arch Rock Trail (both of which are rated as easy!). 

During your weekend in Joshua Tree, I also recommend spending some time in Pioneertown. This western town was built in 1946 as a set for films and TV shows, and is now home to a few on-theme shops, restaurants, and bars. 

Where to Stay:

• AutoCamp Joshua Tree (a unique hotel where guests stay in beautiful, well-equipped mid-century modern-inspired airstreams)
• Joshua Tree Oasis Vacation Rental (a stunning property that is just a short drive from the West Park Entrance. A great option for groups, as it can sleep up to 8 people!)
• Joshua Tree Monochrome Vacation Rental (I stayed here with a couple friends during my last trip to Joshua Tree. It’s a small but excellent, comfortable space with all the amenities you’d need! It’s also super close to the West Park Entrance. Just note – it is currently listed as a space for 4 people, but I don’t think that’s realistic. It works for three people, with one person on the couch and two people in the bed.) 

8. Idyllwild

Craving fresh mountain air? Then you’re going to want to book a trip to Idyllwild. Rent a cabin, go on a hike or two, and spend some time exploring the charming town. 

Despite how small it is, there are a ton of fun things to do in Idyllwild. I highly recommend hiking the Idyllwild Park Trail, an easy 2.5 mile trail that offers beautiful views of the area. Lake Fulmor is also worth a visit. There’s a short walking path around the water, and it’s an absolutely stunning area!

In town, I also absolutely love stopping by Idyllwild Brewpub for a beer and a casual meal. There are also plenty of fun and funky small shops to explore as you walk around town. 

Where to Stay:

• Cozy Oaks Cabin Vacation Rental (a quintessential cozy cabin with one bedroom that is perfect for a couple)
• Idyllcreek A-Frame Vacation Rental (a charming and pet-friendly A-frame with two bedrooms that is only a quarter-mile from town)
• Romantic Log Cabin Vacation Rental (a gorgeous cabin with two bedrooms and an amazing outdoor deck)

9. Laguna Beach

If the coast is more your speed, you can’t go wrong with a quick getaway to Laguna Beach. A visit isn’t complete without a stroll along the walking path at Heisler Park. This park is situated on top of a coastal cliff, and you get truly picture-perfect views of the beach. There are also stairs that lead down to the water and beautiful tide pools. 

Besides the coastal walk, there are tons of adorable shops within the downtown area. There’s also no shortage of great places to eat and drink. I’ve been to Las Brisas countless times, and you can’t beat the great food with breathtaking coastal views. I also really love Zinc Cafe, a charming eatery in the heart of town.

Where to Stay: 

• Laguna Beach House (a well-rated boutique hotel within walking distance of the main attractions in Laguna Beach)
• Surf and Sand Resort (a contemporary luxury hotel set right on the beach)
• Montage Laguna Beach (a luxurious 5-star resort set on a picturesque coastal cliff, with direct access to the beach)

10. Carlsbad

Carlsbad is a great spot anyone interested in an easy weekend road trip from Los Angeles. Simply hop on the 5, and in about two hours you’ll be in this sunny coastal city in north San Diego County. 

There are truly a ton of things to do in Carlsbad, with activities and attractions for people of all ages and interests. You can’t miss walking along the Carlsbad Beach Boardwalk, and if the weather is nice (as it often is!), you can spend a relaxing weekend laying out on the sand. 

Carlsbad Village is also super fun, with tons of shops and eateries (Campfire is one of my all-time favorites for dinner!). Happen to be visiting in the spring? I also highly suggest buying tickets to visit The Flower Fields. 

Where to Stay: 

• Tamarack Beach Hotel (a highly-rated Carlsbad Village hotel that is just steps from the beach)
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott (another top-rated Carlsbad Village hotel right by the beach)
• Park Hyatt Aviara (a luxurious 5-star resort that is less than a 15-minute drive from Carlsbad Village)

11. Encinitas

Head a bit further down the coast, and you’ll find yourself in Encinitas. Encinitas is smaller compared to Carlsbad, and has more of a local vibe (with a fun dash of coastal hippie culture). If both towns appeal to you, you can easily spend one day in Carlsbad and the other in Encinitas. 

One of my favorite things to do in Encinitas is visit the Meditation Garden at the Self-Realization Temple. As someone who grew up in San Diego, I can confidently say that it is truly one of the most beautiful places in the county, and you get breathtaking views of the coast. I highly recommend going during sunset!

The heart of Encinitas is also bustling with great restaurants (The Taco Stand and Q’ero are two of my favorites), bars, cafes, and shops. Of course, you’ll also want to spend some time soaking up the sun at Moonlight Beach while you’re visiting. 

Where to Stay: 

• Moonlight Beach Motel (a well-rated motel that is perfectly located just a couple blocks from the beach)
• Inn at Moonlight Beach (a charming wellness-centered bed and breakfast just outside of the center of town)
• Alila Marea Beach Resort (a stunning luxury beachside resort located a bit north of the heart of Encinitas)