The Best Road Trips from Los Angeles

A road trip from Los Angeles is one of the best ways to experience the incredible variety of landscapes, attractions, and family-friendly destinations the Western States have to offer. Whether you're looking for something short and sweet or planning a longer California road trip as part of your holiday, we’ve whittled down the top choices that the whole family can enjoy… 

Quick Trips 

Malibu (43 minutes) 

Just north of Los Angeles along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu offers a picture-perfect blend of coastal luxury and natural beauty. Famous for its lavish beachfront homes, golden sandy beaches, and laid-back surf culture, it's the ideal escape for families and beach lovers alike. Beyond the shoreline, rugged canyon trails provide spectacular hiking opportunities, while the stunning Getty Villa showcases an impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman art. End the day with dinner on Malibu Pier, where fresh sea air and sweeping Pacific Ocean views create an unforgettable California experience. 

Huntington Beach (45 minutes) 

Just 45 minutes from Los Angeles, Huntington Beach, better known as Surf City USA, captures the essence of Southern California’s beach lifestyle. With ten miles of golden coastline, a world-famous surf scene and major surfing competitions throughout the year, it’s a paradise for wave enthusiasts and sun seekers. For a quieter experience, nearby Huntington Harbour offers calm waters perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. After a day by the ocean, head to the lively downtown area, where Main Street is packed with restaurants, cafes, and shops. 

Santa Barbara (1.5 hours) 

Often called the American Riviera, Santa Barbara enchants visitors with its whitewashed Spanish-style architecture, rich cultural heritage, and more than 300 days of sunshine each year. This elegant coastal city is perfect for a leisurely day of exploration, with palm-lined State Street serving as a pedestrian-friendly hub for shopping, dining, and people-watching. Just a short stroll away, The Funk Zone offers a completely different atmosphere, where colourful murals, converted warehouses, eclectic boutiques and craft breweries create one of the city's most vibrant neighbourhoods. 

Half-Day Escapes 

Laguna Beach (1 hour) 

Nestled along the Orange County coastline, Laguna Beach is a picturesque seaside retreat that perfectly blends a relaxed Californian lifestyle with breathtaking natural scenery. Offering a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, this charming coastal town invites visitors to slow down and soak up the ocean views. Stroll through Heisler Park, where cliffside walking trails wind past public art installations, tide pools, and panoramic Pacific vistas. Or you may just want to unwind on Main Beach, Laguna’s largest and most popular stretch of sand, ideal for a laid-back morning or afternoon by the sea. 

Big Bear Lake (2 – 2.5 hours) 

Just 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake offers a refreshing alpine escape in the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains. Centred around a sparkling freshwater lake, this year-round resort destination combines outdoor adventure with small-town charm. Visitors can spend their days jet skiing, paddleboarding or cruising across the water, while hikers can explore scenic mountain trails and panoramic viewpoints. After an active day outdoors, we reckon you should check out the bustling downtown village, packed with shops, restaurants, and cosy mountain-town character. 

Ojai (1.5 hours) 

Ojai is an upscale bohemian retreat where wellness, creativity, and a slower pace of life are centre stage. Free from chain stores, the town is filled with independent boutiques and farm-to-table restaurants that showcase its strong local character. Plus, you will need to have your camera at the ready as Ojai is also famous for the ‘Pink Moment’ - a stunning natural phenomenon when the setting sun bathes the surrounding mountains in a soft rose-coloured glow. 


 

Full Days of Fun 

Joshua Tree National Park (2hrs 12 mins) 

Famous for its otherworldly desert landscapes, giant boulder formations and of course, the park's namesake Joshua trees, it's one of California's most unique natural attractions. Families can enjoy easy hiking trails, scenic drives, and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. As night falls, Joshua Tree becomes one of the best stargazing destinations in the country, with remarkably clear skies offering unforgettable views of the Milky Way. 

Palm Springs (1hr 48 mins) 

Stylish resorts and dramatic desert scenery make Palm Springs the perfect road trip from Los Angeles. Surrounded by the rugged San Jacinto Mountains, this desert oasis offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for spectacular views over the valley, or explore the city's vibrant downtown filled with boutiques, restaurants, and galleries.  

San Diego (2 hours) 

San Diego packs plenty into a day trip. Home to beautiful beaches, the world-famous San Diego Zoo and the sprawling Balboa Park, there's no shortage of attractions to keep the whole family entertained. The city's laid-back atmosphere, waterfront dining and pleasant weather make it a favourite among visitors. Whether you're spotting exotic animals, building sandcastles on the beach, or exploring historic neighbourhoods, San Diego offers something for every age. 

Multi-Day Adventures 

Las Vegas, Nevada (4-5 hours) 

When you’re within touching distance of Sin City, it would be a crime not to visit. With so much on offer, we recommend taking a few days to explore. You’ll certainly want at least a full day to soak up the world-famous Strip with its magnitude of shows, casinos, and restaurants. Beyond the neon lights, there’s far more to explore. Las Vegas is an excellent base to take a trip to the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam, two icons of the States that you wouldn’t want to miss.  

Yosemite National Park (4hrs 38 mins) 

No California road trip is complete without a visit to Yosemite National Park. Renowned for its towering granite cliffs, ancient sequoia trees and spectacular waterfalls, Yosemite showcases some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United States. Enjoy scenic drives through Yosemite Valley, gentle walking trails, and iconic viewpoints such as Tunnel View and Glacier Point. 

Lake Tahoe (7hrs 13 mins) 

For those willing to make the longer journey, Lake Tahoe will certainly reward you. This stunning year-round location is famous for its crystal-clear waters and spectacular mountain scenery. During summer, you can enjoy swimming, boating, paddleboarding and lakeside hiking, while winter transforms the area into one of North America's premier ski destinations.  



Ready to hit the open road? Discover your perfect Los Angeles holiday and start planning an unforgettable California adventure today.